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Whether you're planning ahead for Christmas, a birthday, or just looking for a special keepsake, commissioning a portrait with me is a straightforward process.
This guide will walk you through the different mediums you can choose from, how to place an order, framing options, and what to expect with timescales. My goal is to make sure you feel completely confident and excited about booking your special portrait with me.
Final booking dates for Christmas portraits:
Acrylics: UK Last order date: 16th November 2025 International: 9th November 2025 Coloured Pencils: UK (From 12" x 16" upwards) 16th November 2025 International: 9th November 2025 Coloured Pencils: UK (Upto 12" x 12" sizing) 30th November 2025 International: 23rd November 2025 
Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford at the easel, working on a coloured pencil drawing of her Springer Spaniel, Casper
Why Should You Book a Portrait with Me?
If you have come across my website, you may be considering the question, "Why should I book a portrait with you?" Your visit may be motivated by my proximity or my focus on pet portraits. Below, I provide some information about my work ethics to help you feel confident in selecting me to create a portrait that is truly meaningful to you.
I’m a self-taught artist with over 35 years’ experience in coloured pencils and more than 20 in acrylics. My focus is realism, but not in the sense of simply copying a photo. I take time to study the details that reveal character, posture, expression, the subtleties that make someone or something recognisable beyond the surface. This approach gives the portrait depth and meaning. It’s not just a likeness, it’s a considered interpretation. A photograph might capture a moment, but a portrait offers something more sentimental. It’s built with care, and made to last. 
To create portraits that stand the test of time, it is vital to use only the finest archival, acid-free materials. Every step of my artistic process is infused with a commitment to quality. I carefully choose an array of archival and lightfast products, including GOLDEN acrylics, Caran d'Ache Luminance, and Derwent colored pencils, all paired with acid-free and archival surfaces. These intentional choices not only enhance the longevity of each piece but also amplify the vibrancy of colours. The rich hues you encounter in the finished artwork are crafted to remain brilliantly bright, preserving their depth and clarity for generations to come.
A coloured pencil drawing of a couple and their French Bulldog in a simulated frame
Which medium should I choose?
If you are interested in exploring the different mediums featured in my artwork and would like to gain insight into the detailed process involved in creating my portraits, I have included a selection of informative YouTube videos below. These videos demonstrate techniques such as the careful layering of vibrant coloured pencils and the dynamic application of acrylic paints.
These videos offer an in-depth exploration of each medium, illustrating not only the techniques I employ but also the thought and creativity that go into every piece. Both provide a rich and engaging insight into my artistic approach and the journey of bringing a portrait to life.
Feel free to subscribe to my You Tube channel if you wish to stay up-to-date on my latest work, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming projects. How to Book Your Custom Portrait: A Simple GuideIf you’re considering booking a portrait with me, I am always available to answer any questions you may have. I’ve also provided comprehensive information here that will help you understand what to expect when commissioning a portrait with me.
An oil pastel painting in progress of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Timescales
I don't follow a strict first-come, first-served queue. Instead, I manage my workload based on customer deadlines. My work is very detailed, so I can only take on a limited number of portraits each month.
I rotate between multiple pieces at once to keep my creative flow fresh and to ensure I can accommodate clients with urgent requests. This allows me to fit in a rush order without impacting the completion dates of other portraits. If you're in a hurry, consider a coloured pencil portrait. Unlike acrylics, they don't require any drying or varnishing time. Acrylic paintings need one to two weeks to fully dry and be varnished, which is a crucial step before framing. 
An acrylic painting in progress of a young girl and her grey horse
What happens next?
Once the details of your commission are agreed, a 50% deposit (payable by bank transfer or PayPal) secures your booking. When the portrait is underway, I’ll create a private page for you on this website and share the link, so you can follow progress as the work develops. You’re welcome to keep in touch during this stage if you’d like any adjustments made or simply have questions.
When the portrait is finished, I’ll upload an image to your page for your approval. Acrylic paintings are then varnished and, if you’ve chosen framing, prepared accordingly. Coloured pencil portraits are carefully packaged at this stage. Once the final balance has been settled, the portrait is securely packed and dispatched. Within the UK, delivery is via a tracked 24-hour service. International orders are sent by special delivery, with arrival typically within 5–7 working days. 
An acrylic painting commissioned of a father and son embracing at his wedding
Do you Only Create Pet Portraits?
No. Alongside bespoke pet portraits, I also produce portraits of loved ones and special events. These make considered gifts for occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or weddings, and can offer a respectful way to commemorate those who are no longer with us.
Each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail, aiming not just to reflect appearance but also to convey personality, love, and treasured memories. 
If you’d like to explore the possibility of a custom portrait, my online form is the best place to start. You can upload a favourite image or two and share your ideas, whether detailed or just a starting point. I’ll take a close look and get back to you with a no-obligation quote and a sense of how your vision could be brought to life. Alternatively, you’re welcome to get in touch directly or explore further details through the links below.
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I recently began working with oil pastels. After decades of creating highly detailed artwork with coloured pencils and acrylics, I wanted to try out a different medium that allows for greater flexibility and expressiveness, offering a complement to my traditional emphasis on realism. While my passion remains rooted in capturing realism, my oil pastel paintings reflect this focus, albeit with a different level of intricacy compared to my pencil drawings and acrylic paintings.
An oil pastel painting of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - click the image to view progress of this portrait.
What are Oil Pastels?
Oil pastels are a fascinating art medium that consist of vibrant pigments, non-drying oils, and a wax binding agent. Their smooth and creamy texture makes them effortless to apply and blend, allowing for seamless transitions between colours. What sets them apart from traditional pastels is their ability to remain malleable and never fully dry, allowing the flexibility to apply various techniques for blending, shaping, and creating intricate details.
Haze - Black Labrador Oil Pastel Painting on Pastelbord
Featured below is a portrait of my beloved late black Labrador Retriever, Haze. This piece holds a truly special place in my heart, marking it as the very first pet portrait I created using oil pastels. It beautifully illustrates the depth, vibrancy and character that I love about this medium. For Haze's portrait, I chose Ampersand Pastelbord, a durable, archival surface ideal for works that, like this one, are best presented simply framed behind glass, without the need for a mount or additional features.
Comparing an oil pastel painting (left) to the original photograph (right)
I find oil pastels offer incredible expressive freedom, creating artwork with both vibrant colour and a gentle way of defining shapes and textures, much like the classic allure of an oil painting. With Haze's comparison above, you can clearly see how this oil pastel painting goes beyond a simple copy of the photograph, instead highlighting and interpreting his unique features.
Storm - Oil Pastel Painting of a Yellow Labrador in a Field of Wheat
I painted a second oil pastel portrait of my much-missed yellow Labrador, Storm, specifically to hang alongside Haze's painting. Though its composition is notably different and carries a softer vibrancy, Storm's chosen stance truly complements his warm colouring and beautifully conveys the gentle nature of both him and the Labrador breed. This portrait, too, was created on the archival Ampersand Pastelbord. For their presentation, both Haze's and Storm's portraits are housed in matching wide, cream frames, complete with a protective spacer to keep the painting safely separated from the glass.
The completed portrait of Storm - An oil pastel painting of a Yellow Labrador in a wheat field
The History of the Oil Pastels
My Essential Art Supplies for Oil Pastel Painting
My oil pastel work relies on a blend of Sennelier and Caran d'Ache Neopastel oil pastels, plus a few essential blending tools and accessories. This approach enables the fine details that are difficult to achieve with pastels alone. The soft, creamy texture of Sennelier oil pastels is perfectly suited for foundational layers and impasto effects. In contrast, the firmer Caran d'Ache Neopastels excel at creating precise lines and subtle details. Occasionally, I also use coloured pencils for exceptionally fine details like whiskers or individual strands of hair.
An oil pastel painting of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel on Pastelmat
My selection of painting surfaces depends on the desired framing presentation. I choose Ampersand Pastelbord for portraits designed to be framed similarly to traditional oil paintings, without a mount. For pieces that will be matted and framed like a pencil portrait, Pastelmat is my preferred surface. It's essential to frame all oil pastel paintings under glass, complete with a spacer, as the medium never completely dries, making the artwork vulnerable to dust and smudging.
The 'Sycamore Gap' tree oil pastel painting on Pastelmat
While I truly enjoy creating pet portraits, my oil pastel paintings aren't limited to just animals. I offer bespoke portraits of many subjects, including cherished landscapes or even people. Every piece of art I create is unique, showing different levels of expressiveness. This is one of the great things about working with oil pastels. My goal isn't just to make a perfect copy. Instead, I aim for a custom result that captures the true character and life of the subject and its surroundings, always with my own artistic touch. Interested in Commissioning Your Own Portrait?
If you're interested in a unique, custom portrait, you can find details and pricing for my oil pastel portraits on the links below. If oil pastels aren't quite what you're looking for, I also create lifelike portraits in coloured pencil and vibrant acrylic paintings. Use the links below to explore my other styles, or feel free to contact me directly to discuss your ideas!
In this article, I am pleased to share my latest artworks. Three new acrylic paintings, which include a touching moment of a father embracing his son on his wedding day, a young girl named Lois riding her grey horse Vinnie, and Lois's sweet little black Cockapoochon. Additionally, I unveil my latest coloured pencil portraits, featuring a Golden Retriever surrounded by vibrant pink Hydrangeas, and two Boxer dogs that complement last Christmas's portraits. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail to capture the essence and personality of the subjects and each one was commissioned for friends and family members for various special occasions, including Christmas. Discover the inspiration behind each unique creation and watch how these portraits were brought to life through the time-lapse videos. For those interested in commissioning a personal portrait, more information can be found on my Commissions page. Jimmy & Craig - Portrait in AcrylicsGifted by Daniel to a friend after the recent loss of his father Daniel made a formal request for an acrylic painting measuring 12" by 16", depicting a heartfelt moment of a friend embracing his father during his wedding ceremony. This artwork was commissioned as a thoughtful gift to commemorate his friend's birthday in December. Daniel's initial request is detailed below: " I am considering getting a portrait commissioned (30x40 acrylic) on behalf of my friend whose father has recently passed. The picture I have is taken indoors, although well lit, when his father surprised us all by making it to his wedding day despite being critically ill. It was a pivotal moment in his life and I would love it captured by yourself and I think it would help him through the grieving process. "  This image illustrates the chosen frame and painting, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Portraiture is among my favourite subjects to create. As an artist, I find inspiration in challenges, and I consider portraits to be particularly demanding. While the majority of my work focuses on pets, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to diversify my portfolio when clients inquire about portrait commissions. Although I generally refrain from incorporating text into my paintings, I recognised the significance of this phrase to the recipient. As a result, I was able to integrate it in a way that maintains both cohesiveness and visual appeal.  'Jimmy & Craig' Below are two time-lapse videos that highlight two key stages of the painting process. The first video illustrates the detailing of the jackets, while the second video focuses on the completion of the face and head. Although the videos are brief, they each represent around 2 hours of work.
" Hi Karen, I have reviewed the painting and it's exactly how you promised it would be. I'm sure he'll love it." Daniel Merseyside, UK If you’d like to dive deeper into the process, feel free to visit the dedicated page for Jimmy & Craig’s portrait, where I share my personal insights and an in-depth overview. Two Acrylic Paintings of a Young Girl and her Horse plus her Cockapoochon dogGifted by Joan to her great-grand-daughter Lois The two portraits displayed below were commissioned by my lovely neighbour, Joan, as a thoughtful gift for her great-granddaughter, Lois, who is 13 years old. Initially, the request included Tux being featured in the portrait with Lois and her horse; however, it was ultimately decided to create two separate paintings.  This image illustrates the chosen frame and painting, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Both of these portraits were developed from physical photographs, which presents a greater challenge compared to digital images due to limited editing capabilities. While it is possible to adjust brightness and contrast in the scanned photo, extracting additional detail as one would with a digital file is not feasible, which added complexity to the process. Additionally, I designed a new background, as the original photo lacked visual appeal.  In this case, the original image presented a concrete road, a few sparse trees, and a dreary overcast sky, which inspired me to explore ways to improve the scene. By transforming the background with lush greenery and a brighter sky, I turned a rather mundane setting into a more visually appealing landscape.  For Tux's portrait, the 8" x 10" size was most appropriate. However, the reference photo was relatively small and lacked detail in several key areas. Since I only had the single photo to work from, I had to rely on online images of black Cockapoo dogs to enhance my understanding of the details in the eyes and to help differentiate the fur on the face, forehead, and ears. While this approach carries some risk of deviating from Tux's actual appearance, it was the only viable option.  This image illustrates the chosen frame and painting, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Both portraits were presented in matching silver-gold frames. I experimented with several ornate frames available in my studio; however, I realised that they did not enhance the paintings as intended and, in fact, detracted from their overall impact. Consequently, a simpler molding was more effective in this case. For further information regarding these paintings, please visit the dedicated page for Lois, Vinnie, and Tux, where I provide an in-depth overview of the process. A Coloured Pencil Memorial Drawing of Elsa, the Golden RetrieverIn memory of Elsa - October 2024 This was gifted from Melvin and Kay to two dear friends in honour of their cherished Golden Retriever (and ex guide dog), Elsa, who recently passed away. Due to the nature of this presentation as a surprise gift for the two recipients, the commissioner was only able to supply a limited selection of photos of Elsa. Although the available details were minimal, I was able to create a new composition based on one of the photos, featuring Elsa in a recognisable area of the garden, positioned beneath the Hydrangea bush with a tennis ball in front of her. " We are looking to place a commission for a portrait of a dog and we are very impressed with your body of work. The subject doesn’t belong to us but is very dear to us. The dog is named Elsa and she is a retired guide dog and she lives with two very special friends of ours. Very sadly, Elsa is coming to the end of her life and we are hoping a portrait will give our friends a lasting memory of Elsa."  This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Elsa frequently found comfort beneath the hydrangea bush, highlighting the importance of creating a composition that would serve as a lasting tribute to her in her favourite spot in the garden. The portrait was developed using two distinct images, as the client was unable to provide a suitable photo of her in a lying position. I combined a photograph of Elsa's head with an image of the body from a different Golden Retriever to achieve a realistic representation of the desired pose. Additionally, I used other photographs of Elsa to ensure that the colouration accurately reflected her likeness, while also omitting any white hairs typical of her youthful age of eight years, in accordance with the client's request.  As you might expect, the most time-consuming aspect of the portrait was meticulously crafting the leaves and petals of the flowers. I found myself consistently underestimating the amount of time this intricate detail required, often losing track of how many hours I dedicated to perfecting the background detail. To give you a sense of the labour involved, I’ve included a couple of time-lapse videos. These clips capture the painstaking process and reveal the hours of effort that went into each stage of the artwork, with each video spanning approximately two and a half to three hours of my work. As previously mentioned, I have a deep passion for tackling challenges, and I found immense satisfaction in the process.
" We cannot thank you enough for the amazing portrait you have produced and we are in awe of your artistic skill. It is a beautiful composition and it truly encapsulates Elsa in a very typical pose we have all witnessed many times." Melvin & Kay West Midlands, UK Maggot the Boxer dog in Coloured PencilsLast year, Jet commissioned coloured pencil portraits of her Boxer dogs. However, two additional Boxer dogs belonging to Jet and her friend Mark had not reached maturity at that time. To ensure their portraits could be displayed alongside the previously commissioned pieces, Jet decided it would be prudent to wait an extra year. Maggot is Jet's third Boxer dog, joining her other two, Carrot and Fungus. The framed examples are presented as a simulation for display purposes, but have yet to be framed. The portraits of all three dogs together are also showcased further down the page.  This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Although the reference photograph was of exceptional detail, I used an additional reference image to make adjustments to the left ear, which was protruding and could potentially disrupt the balance of the overall presentation. It is uncommon for me to produce a portrait based solely on a single photograph; typically, I incorporate a combination of elements from multiple images to achieve the desired outcome. During certain periods in my creative process, I capture time-lapse recordings that provide viewers with an insight into the methodology behind my portrait creation. This video features a series of time-lapse recordings captured during key stages of my creative process, offering a detailed look at how my coloured pencil portraits are developed. Using Maggot as the subject, it illustrates the techniques and structure behind my approach to lifelike portraiture.  The image above was taken during the final stages of completing Maggot's portrait. This process involved the meticulous addition of whiskers and final adjustments to ensure the artwork’s completion. At this stage, I proceed to sign the portrait, followed by the application of two to three layers of fixative spray to provide enhanced protection for the finished piece.  This image illustrates the final drawings, with all framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. The three portraits are showcased here through a simulation application that allows you to visualise how they may appear when framed and displayed together. To ensure consistency in size among the portraits, particularly since two of them were completed a year ago, I always maintain a printed reference image that allows me to accurately evaluate and align the dimensions of any subsequent portraits. Rooster the Boxer dog in Coloured PencilsThis Christmas, my friend Jet commissioned a second portrait as a gift for her friend Mark. This piece features Mark's now-matured male Boxer dog, Rooster, and is designed to complement the previously commissioned portrait of his brindle Boxer, Watson, which was created last year. The framed examples presented are simulations for display purposes, as the actual portraits have yet to be framed. Additionally, further down the page, both portraits of the dogs are showcased together.  This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Throughout various stages of my creative process, I capture time-lapse recordings that give viewers a deeper understanding of the techniques involved in my portrait creation. The two videos featured here, though they are only a few seconds long, encapsulate a considerable amount of time and effort; each represents approximately 2 to 3 hours of meticulous work. These recordings serve not only to showcase the final product but also to highlight the intricate steps taken and the evolution of the artwork from initial concept to completion.
I began my first commission in July, and as I received more requests, I effectively adapted my schedule, working on each project every other day. This approach allowed me to prioritise those with upcoming deadlines and ensure timely completion. I coordinated the ordering of acrylic paintings and their frames at the same time as starting each portrait, which proved to be a smart strategy for ensuring everything was ready for the final varnishing.  By mid-November, I was fully booked, leaving no room for additional commissions until Jet reached out to me with a photo of Rooster at the end of November. Drawing from my experience in creating Boxer dog illustrations, I was able to efficiently integrate this new project into my workflow and remarkably finished it in just eight days! The constrained timeframe presented an intriguing challenge, leading to the surprising realisation that I was able to complete a large 10" x 12" coloured pencil portrait in a remarkably short period. Typically, I would not work at such a pace for a piece of this size, making this experience a notable exception.  This image illustrates the final drawings, with all framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. If you are interested in commissioning a lifelike, custom-made coloured pencil portrait or an acrylic painting of your pet, a loved one, or any other subject, you can find out more on my commissions page or contact me via email at: [email protected] to discuss your ideas for the portrait. Additionally, I offer oil pastel portraits for those seeking a more expressive interpretation of your chosen subject. Welcome to my latest blog post, where I document the progress of another of my coloured pencil drawing of a Boxer dog called Rooster. This blog showcases the process I use to create my lifelike pencil portrait of a Boxer dog, from the early stages to completion. I always begin my portrait process by meticulously rendering the eyes, as they are crucial for capturing the subject's unique personality and lifelike expression. From there, I move on to the nose, the progressively work outwards, building the portrait through a series of carefully applied layers of colour. My focus at this stage is on creating realistic depth and dimension. Each subsequent layer is precisely added to achieve the desired texture and tone, with particular attention paid to intricate details like Rooster's distinctive markings and individual strands of fur.  Capturing the Boxer's Unique CharacterAs I begin to build up the layers, I employ a diverse palette of colours to meticulously sculpt the distinctive creases and contours of a Boxer's facial features. This intricate layering is essential for rendering their unique facial structure with accuracy and depth. One of the most enjoyable aspects of portraying a Boxer is creating the mouth. The significant definition around this area is crucial, as it profoundly contributes to revealing the true character and expression of the dog. With years of experience and numerous Boxer portraits under my belt, these techniques have become second nature, allowing me to fully capture each personality.  My Artistic Process in MotionI enjoy recording time-lapse videos during my creative process; they effectively demonstrate how my coloured pencil drawings come to life. While seemingly brief, the two videos below condense just over three hours of drawing time, offering a comprehensive look at the intricate layering involved. My process typically begins with the eyes. This has become both an ingrained habit and a strategic choice developed over 40 years of working with coloured pencils. This initial focus allows for precision from the outset, making the rest of the portrait much easier to complete.
Crafting with Coloured Pencil: My Preferred Brands:I create my coloured pencil portraits using a carefully curated selection of lightfast pencils, predominantly Caran d'A'che Luminance, alongside Derwent's Lightfast, Coloursoft, and Drawing ranges. These are layered onto Bockingford hot-pressed paper, a high-quality, heavyweight British-made support specifically chosen for its capacity to handle numerous layers of pigment. This unique combination allows me to achieve the high level of detail you see in my art. Curious about how Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils contribute to the intricate detail in my work? Read the full article on my other website, www.stepbystepart.com. This is a website by artists, for artists, with articles, guides, hints and tips plus tutorials, aimed at artists of all calibre.  Thanks for reading! If you're looking for a unique and personal piece of art, I create custom, lifelike portraits in both coloured pencil and acrylics, perfect for capturing the spirit of your pet, a loved one, or any other significant subject. Discover more about the commissioning process on my Commissions page, request a quote, or feel free to reach out directly via email to share your vision. For a more expressive artistic approach, consider my oil pastel portraits. Pet Portraits in Focus: The Progress of a Lifelike Coloured Pencil Portrait of Maggot the Boxer24/11/2024 
This marks the fifth portrait I've completed in the past year for my friend Jet. She initially commissioned two portraits of her beautiful Boxer dogs, Carrot and Fungus, and decided to wait until her third pup matured before asking me to create another, named Maggot. Additionally, last year's commissions also included pencil portraits featuring her mother's dogs, Masuda and Kudu, as well as Watson, another Boxer dog belonging to her friend Mark. Each portrait has a dedicated progress page, accessible via the provided links, showcasing the creation process.
Planning the Composition for a Coloured Pencil DrawingJet possesses an extraordinary talent for photography, and her selections for reference photos will always represent the very best available. In this specific image, Maggot is engaging in direct eye contact with the viewer, creating a powerful connection. However, one ear appears slightly askew, which can distract from the primary focus on her eyes. Therefore, it was decided to adjust her ear to align it with the other one for a more cohesive look. An ear from a secondary photograph was superimposed onto the reference image, allowing for a simplified working process. It is important to recognise that there is no singular requirement for a reference image. Any photograph selected by me as the artist reflects the optimal stance and composition; however, the ideal reference photo is one that the pet owner believes captures the essence of their pet most accurately. It is important to preserve distinctive characteristics in a dog's portrait, such as a subtly raised lip or an unusually angled ear, in order to authentically represent their individuality. 
The early stages of the layering process with more layers yet to add.
As a traditional artist specialising in lifelike portraiture, I always start with the eyes. They must be accurately rendered, as any discrepancy can compromise the entire portrait. It's much easier to begin anew at this early stage than to invest hours into a portrait, only to realise it just can't be salvaged. Despite having over 40 years of experience in the field, I continue to adhere to this rule. When using coloured pencils, it is crucial to recognise that, unlike other mediums, overworking any area, especially the eyes, can place undue pressure on the paper's surface, potentially leading to tears. Therefore, careful planning throughout the process is essential to avoid overworking these areas.
Techniques & Colour PaletteBoth images above demonstrate the layering technique that I use in all of my coloured pencil drawings. By applying additional layers, I am able to enhance the details and achieve a more realistic representation in the artwork. The depiction of this area of the eye may involve the use of numerous colours, each consisting of five or six primary hues. Additionally, contrasts and highlights are incorporated using lighter and darker pigments from the same colour family. The extensive colour palette offered by the Caran d'Ache Luminance pencil range is the sole reason I favour this brand over many others.
The artwork is finalised when I apply the highlights with the most pressure, creating slight indentations in the paper that enhance the realism of the piece. This is why I advise customers to contact me during the drawing process if they wish to request any modifications.
Time-lapse video showing the creation of Maggot
Time-lapse videos serve as an effective means to illustrate the process involved in the creation of my coloured pencil portraits. Although these videos condense several hours of work into just a few seconds, they provide a clear view of the artistic journey.
At this stage, I am merely applying colours and providing some definition; however, I will return to these areas for further refinement, typically by adding highlights to eliminate the visibility of the paper grain, thereby enhancing the appearance to be more realistic and soft, akin fur.
After an additional two and a half hours, the fur appears shiny and more defined. Significantly, it now resembles actual fur in terms of realism.
If you're considering a unique, hand-drawn portrait created with coloured pencils, I'd love to hear from you! To learn more about commissioning your own portrait, please click on any of the links below. You'll find detailed information about the process, pricing, and what to expect.
I also offer acrylic paintings, which offer vibrant, bold colours and dynamic textures for a painterly finish, providing a distinct alternative to the detailed precision of coloured pencils. You can discover more about them in my acrylics gallery. There's absolutely no obligation to book, so why not drop me a line with your query? Simply email me at: [email protected]
After completing an oil pastel portrait of our beloved late black Labrador, Haze, I knew it was time to create one for our beautiful yellow Labrador, Storm. At 14 years old, every day with him is precious, and I wanted to capture his likeness in a piece of art that I could cherish forever. As Storm is very photogenic, we have so many stunning references of him, and finding the perfect photo was a challenge, but I thought this particular composition would make an ideal portrait, showcasing his gentle nature and unique character.
Read on and discover the step-by-step process behind my oil pastel painting of Storm. You'll gain a better understanding of how everything comes together and the techniques I use to achieve my results, particularly insightful if you are looking to book a portrait of your own. 
In loving memory of Storm
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A key detail in framing oil pastels on Ampersand Pastelbord, is including a spacer between the artwork and the glass. This thin strip creates a small gap to prevent the pastel from sticking to the glass, which could otherwise cause permanent damage. The spacer is discreet, barely noticeable unless you’re inspecting the frame up close, and it ensures the artwork stays pristine. For Haze’s portrait, I chose acrylic glass for its durability and lower risk of shattering compared to traditional glass. It’s a practical choice that doesn’t compromise on clarity, making it ideal for showcasing the rich textures of an oil pastel piece. For oil pastel paintings created on Pastelmat, a spacer is unnecessary because the mount serves as a protective barrier between the artwork and the glass.
Oil pastels are a wonderful medium for creating heartfelt, striking portraits that truly reflect the character of your subject. Whether it’s a pet, a loved one or a cherished memory, I welcome the chance to create a portrait in oil pastels that feels both personal and lasting.
If you’re interested in commissioning a portrait or would simply like to find out more about the process, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer questions and to create something personal and meaningful.
If you’re interested in commissioning a portrait or would simply like to find out more about the process, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer questions and to create something personal and meaningful.
Creating Realistic Pet Portraits: Dougal A Red Fox Labrador in Coloured Pencils - Private Commission
4/3/2022
The latest commission on the easel is this stunning Red Fox Labrador called Dougal.
For this 10" x 12" drawing of Dougal, I am using the lightfast coloured pencils, Caran d'Ache Luminance on Strathmore Bristol Vellum paper.
For this 10" x 12" drawing of Dougal, I am using the lightfast coloured pencils, Caran d'Ache Luminance on Strathmore Bristol Vellum paper.
I create my drawings using a layering process, which help to create the depth and realism that can be seen in all my work. This process starts from the lighter tones and builds up to heavy and bold applications. The realism is created at the end, when I use both light and dark tones to manipulate the layers and create the final pieces you see within the pages of my website.
Creating a drawing like this can take many hours and to ensure I stay fully focused on each piece, I work on other drawings and paintings in between sessions. The length of time it takes to create a portrait depends entirely on the complexity of the composition, but a 4 - 6 week timescale is normal, unless a specific timeframe is requested.
This is the current stage of Dougal's portrait. There is still much to do on the colouration, but you can see how soft his fur now looks from the first post above, after numerous layers have been applied. You can view Dougal's progress page HERE.
I also completed a portrait of a Red Fox Labrador last year. This is Rua, who is Dougal's sister. You can view her portrait HERE.
I also completed a portrait of a Red Fox Labrador last year. This is Rua, who is Dougal's sister. You can view her portrait HERE.
Interested in commissioning a portrait? Browse the galleries below for details and examples of my work, or request a no-obligation quote. You can also get in touch direct through my Contact page.
I was recently commissioned to create a stunning coloured pencil drawing of an English Bulldog for a client. This client, Carol, had previously asked me to create two beautiful portraits of her beloved pets: a red English Bulldog named Buster and a white English Bulldog named Reggie. Now, she has another adorable Bulldog named Rufus, and she wanted a third portrait to join the collection, creating a lovely trio of coloured pencil portraits to display in her home.
Prior to working on the portraits of Buster and Reggie, I had not had the opportunity to create a pet portrait of an English Bulldog. Their unique character is truly remarkable, with the distinctive wrinkles and folds in their faces that are somewhat reminiscent of those of the Boxer dog. Having completed over 40 portraits of the Boxer dog breed, I have always thoroughly enjoyed the creative process for each one. My extensive experience in creating Boxer dog portraits, coupled with the excellent reference photograph provided, greatly simplified the process.
The realism of my coloured pencil portraits is greatly influenced by the quality of the photographs provided. High-resolution images enable me to capture even the minutest details by zooming in. Working from subjects photographed in natural light is significantly easier, as it eliminates the need to interpret details lost to overexposure or distortion from artificial lighting conditions. The precision of my pencil work will reveal the areas in the photograph that may lack essential detail, which can lead to a less refined portrait. With more than 35 years of experience in working with coloured pencils, I gravitate towards high realism because I relish the challenge it presents.
If you're considering commissioning a custom pet portrait of your English Bulldog or another breed, I will provide useful links for you to learn more about the process before contacting me.
You're welcome to reach out directly as your initial inquiry, but if you're just looking to gather information before deciding, feel free to explore my pencil gallery and/or pet portraits gallery to view the range of portraits I've crafted over the years.
In addition to Coloured Pencils, I also work with Acrylics and Oil Pastels, each providing unique finishes. You can visit each gallery by clicking on the provided links below.
You're welcome to reach out directly as your initial inquiry, but if you're just looking to gather information before deciding, feel free to explore my pencil gallery and/or pet portraits gallery to view the range of portraits I've crafted over the years.
In addition to Coloured Pencils, I also work with Acrylics and Oil Pastels, each providing unique finishes. You can visit each gallery by clicking on the provided links below.
Portrait size: 12" x 16"
This portrait of Kira was commissioned by Georgina as a thoughtful birthday gift for her husband. Despite working from a small, low-detail photo, I was able to create a richly detailed drawing that captured Kira's character. Early ideas for a tonal background were set aside to keep the focus entirely on her. Read on to see how the portrait came together.
The reference photo was quite small, so zooming in caused pixelation and loss of detail, especially in the shadows of the black fur. To bridge those gaps, I spent time researching the breed online, gathering visual references that matched both the stance and the key features I could make out. This helped ensure anatomical accuracy while preserving the integrity of Kira’s likeness. While I don’t normally recommend working from low-resolution images, careful research made it possible to produce a highly detailed 12" x 16" coloured pencil portrait that reflected Kira’s character beautifully.
Georgina was initially open to the idea of a background but unsure of the direction she wanted to take. To help explore the possibilities, I created five different options, three featuring soft-focus outdoor backgrounds and two with simple, soft hues. She selected one as a starting point, but as the portrait progressed, she felt the background might detract from Kira and ultimately chose to omit it altogether. I agreed with her decision, as it allowed Kira to remain the clear focal point of the piece. Here are a few progress images showing how the portrait developed over time.
 | CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL " Thank you so much. This was a surprise for my husband and he loves it. Your work is fantastic you really brought Kira back to life for us. Absolutely stunning, thank you so much x x " Georgina Gilbert West Sussex, UK |
You can explore a variety of Pet Portraits I've completed throughout the years. My work includes Acrylic Paintings, Oil Pastel Paintings, and Coloured Pencil Drawings, each offering a unique finish to suit your preferences.
For more information on my custom-made portraits, please follow the commissions link. Additionally, you're invited to browse my full gallery, showcasing a diverse array of subjects beyond pet portraits.
For more information on my custom-made portraits, please follow the commissions link. Additionally, you're invited to browse my full gallery, showcasing a diverse array of subjects beyond pet portraits.
JETSON
Newfoundland Pup
Coloured Pencil Portrait
Newfoundland Pup
Coloured Pencil Portrait
PORTRAIT COMPLETED: November 2018
Portrait size: 11" x 14"
Portrait size: 11" x 14"
I was recently contacted by a client named Mel, who was asked by a close friend to facilitate the creation of a pencil portrait of their nine-month-old Newfoundland puppy, Jetson, as a Christmas gift from husband to wife. Mel kindly provided several photographs of Jetson, allowing me to select the most suitable reference image. One particular photo prominently featured a charming detail of Jetson with his tongue playfully sticking out, which I felt would make an excellent choice for the portrait.
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Photographing dogs with dark fur can present significant challenges, primarily due to issues related to contrast. Often, the shadows lack detail, and overexposure can occur when adjustments are made to enhance the image. However, utilising a high-resolution digital image proved to be highly beneficial in overcoming these issues. As a result, I used several photographs to guarantee that the portrait I created had the proper balance of highlights and contrasts.
I utilise Caran d'Ache Luminance coloured pencils for all my pencil portraits. Employing professional-grade pencils is crucial due to their high pigmentation, which enables effective layering. This technique enables me to overlay highlights on darker base tones, which helps maintain accurate perspectives, especially in compositions that feature extensive dark pigmentation.
" Aww Karen...
You wonderful, lovely girl. He’s gorgeous.
Must confess, might have shed a little tear...
THANK YOU SO SO much "
Should you consider commissioning a portrait, whatever the subject may be, you can find out more by clicking any of the links below or drop me an email at: [email protected]
I provide three mediums: Coloured Pencils, Acrylics, and Oil Pastels, each offering a distinctive finish.
I provide three mediums: Coloured Pencils, Acrylics, and Oil Pastels, each offering a distinctive finish.
Ernie is a little Shih Poo dog. A Shih poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle He is a very sweet and affectionate dog and whenever I visited, I would offer him a treat. He would eagerly stand on his hind legs with his paws up, waiting for me to feed him. Ernie had been living with my auntie since he was a puppy, but when she sadly died in 2018, he found a new home with a very kind lady.
During a visit to my aunt, I brought my camera along to capture pictures of Ernie. Unfortunately, the weather was dismal, and I couldn't get any satisfactory shots. However, I managed to take one photo that had a certain appeal, even though it could have been better. I planned to edit it and transform it into a beautiful painting as a surprise gift for my aunt, who was going through some health issues.
For this particular painting, I opted for a simple background and used large brushstrokes to create the initial layers. This served as a foundation for adding finer details. It's worth noting that not all my acrylic paintings are created the same - some require a looser style, while others need more intricate details. The canvas size also plays a role in determining the painting style.
Fortunately, I had an extra frame in my studio that matched the portrait flawlessly. The warm, golden hues of the frame perfectly complemented the painting's tones. When I showed the artwork to my aunt, she became emotional. She cherished the artwork and hung it in her kitchen. When she passed away, I requested that the painting be returned to me to keep that memory alive. He now hangs in my studio as a memory of that precious moment that made my auntie happy when she was so ill.
In this article, I am pleased to share my latest commissions, completed as gifts for Christmas. Four new acrylic paintings, which include a double portrait of two mixed breed dogs, a Chow Chow dog, a boxer dog and a Cocker Spaniel. Additionally, I also had three coloured pencil commissions, featuring a Boxer dog and two individual portraits gifted by a mother to her two children of a Cocker Spaniel and a Tabby cat.
In 2017, I started receiving Christmas orders as early as September, which kept me busy throughout the entire season. Since my work is highly detailed, I can only take on a limited number of portraits in the lead-up to Christmas. Beginning in mid-October, I needed to dedicate 10 to 12 hours each day to ensure I could complete all the portraits on time. To navigate this intense workload and ensure that each portrait was completed on schedule, I had to organise a daily schedule, to manage my workload effectively.
Early December marks the final varnish before this portrait travels to the USA.
Given that some of the orders originated from overseas, it was imperative to ensure that the portraits were finished promptly, as the shipping process typically takes between 5 to 7 working days. Additionally, I needed to proactively arrange for the frames well ahead of time, particularly considering the surge in demand that framers often face during the holiday season. This careful planning would help guarantee that each piece arrive in time for Christmas.
My objective was to complete all outstanding orders one week ahead of my trip back to Chesterfield, where I could enjoy quality time with my family. Despite the challenges of this busy period, I found myself needing to work late into the night before my departure, ensuring that everything completed.
My objective was to complete all outstanding orders one week ahead of my trip back to Chesterfield, where I could enjoy quality time with my family. Despite the challenges of this busy period, I found myself needing to work late into the night before my departure, ensuring that everything completed.
Star - Acrylic Painting of a Chow Chow dog
Commissioned as a Christmas gift for the client's parents, this portrait of their Chow Chow was created with careful attention to detail. Executed in acrylic on a 16" x 20" canvas, the composition features a scenic background thoughtfully selected to complement the Chow's unique colouring without detracting from the focal subject. The portrait provided an opportunity to engage with texture and tonal layering, particularly in capturing the complexity of the coat. It was a time-intensive process, but one that allowed for a more nuanced and considered result, both technically and emotionally.
The completed acrylic portrait, shown in a simulated frame created with Artstage to visualise presentation.
This portrait was commissioned by a lady from Chesterfield, where I am originally from. As I planned to return to Chesterfield for the Christmas holiday, it was arranged for her to collect the painting at the Chesterfield train station. The portrait of Star the Chow Chow was carefully transported in my suitcase, ensuring its safety during a six-hour journey. Upon our meeting, Rachel thoughtfully presented me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, which added a lovely touch to our exchange.
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Star the Chow Chow standing proudly beside his portrait
" Thank you Karen for the beautiful painting of Star. It is stunning! " |
For those interested in how this portrait of Star the Chow Chow came together, you can follow the full progression on his dedicated page. It offers a closer look at the layering process, and the techniques used to bring his painting to life.
Ben - Acrylic Painting of a Cocker Spaniel
This Christmas commission was arranged by an aunt as a gift for her niece. Kathleen, the client, was only able to provide a couple of printed photographs rather than high-resolution digital images. While I generally advise against working from physical prints due to the lack of fine detail, I asked her to send what she had. I scanned them carefully and, using supplementary references of Cocker Spaniels sourced online, was able to gather the key anatomical and tonal information needed to build an accurate portrait.
Ben the Cocker Spaniel, shown in the completed acrylic portrait with the chosen teak frame, previewed in a simulated display setting.
One of the photographs captured an ideal pose, though the colour and image quality was less than perfect. Nevertheless, I worked diligently to enhance the image, keeping the client informed throughout the process via a dedicated webpage where she could monitor progress and request adjustments. We selected a vibrant landscape background that beautifully complemented the dog, and the client chose a teak-coloured frame to complete the painting, resulting in a polished and meaningful gift.
Background complete, ready to begin work on the dog.
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Final acrylic painting of Ben the Cocker Spaniel.
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" Portrait arrived safely and I am delighted with it. The likeness is amazing and I know my niece is going to love it. Here's wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year! "
If you’d like to learn more about how this portrait of Ben developed, from initial reference to final brushwork, you can view the full process here.
BuBu - A Coloured Pencil Drawing of a Boxer dog
Joanne commissioned this portrait of BuBu as a Christmas gift for her husband, following the recent loss of their much-loved Boxer. The chosen 12" x 12" format allowed for greater precision and offered space to include a scenic background, a park they had often walked in together. It was important that the composition felt personal and accurate, not just visually pleasing.
Before the drawing could begin, the first task was to build a reference image that reflected BuBu’s natural proportions. The most suitable photo had been taken indoors, with uneven lighting and an ear position that didn’t reflect his usual stance. Several adjustments were made to correct these issues, combining elements from the original photo with anatomical reference to ensure the final portrait felt true to him.
Adding the fine detail to the background
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Close-up showing the realism in my coloured pencil art.
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" Just wanted to let you know that I absolutely love BuBu. He has now gone for framing and I will send a picture to you when I get him back next week. Once Christmas is over and Shane has received the gift, you are more than welcome to Bu's progress and final image online. It is just amazing. "
Joanne later shared a photo of BuBu’s portrait after it had been framed. She selected an ivory mount paired with a slim white frame, choices that kept the focus on BuBu and complemented the artwork without distraction.
To see more images and read about how the portrait came together, you can visit BuBu's blog here.
To see more images and read about how the portrait came together, you can visit BuBu's blog here.
Tank - An Acrylic Painting of a Boxer dog
David discovered my work through mutual friends and contacted me to create a portrait of his dog, Tank. He shared several reference photos, but one stood out as ideal. The digital format allowed me to zoom in and capture fine details with clarity, and because it was taken in natural daylight, it accurately reflected Tank’s colouring. With this image, no further references were needed to achieve the level of realism and tonal accuracy required.
For head and shoulder portraits like Tank’s, 9" x 12" is a popular format. It provides enough space to capture fine detail while keeping the composition focused. Although I had access to multiple images, the final result depended on the strength of the chosen reference. A well-lit, high-resolution photo makes all the difference. I always recommend providing a range of images and selecting the most suitable one to ensure the best possible outcome.
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" Hello Karen, I just received the painting, it is absolutely beautiful. It arrived unscathed, and thank you so much, this will be hung on my wall, with great pride. You have a god given talent, that is heartfelt. You make a lot of people happy, so we can keep our beautiful babies forever in our hearts and we can see them every day and give us a smile.
Thank you, Tank you!!! "
Chaz & Lucy - An Acrylic Painting of two mixed breed dogs
A lady contacted me about a Christmas portrait of her sister’s two dogs, Chaz and Lucy, both of whom had sadly passed away. With only a few reference photos available, it was difficult to gather enough detail to meet my usual standards. Luckily, I was able to create an ideal composition that honours their memory and offers a heartfelt tribute to these much-loved companions.
To paint Lucy, the larger dog, I combined two photos, one for the body and one for the head. This method can work well, but it depends heavily on the clarity of the images. When references are limited or unclear, it becomes harder to ensure accuracy. Including the customer in the process helps guide decisions and improves the final result.
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" Hi Karen, the painting has arrived. My sister rang me in tears because she was so moved by seeing it. She says it’s amazing and you’ve captured them beautifully. She’s thrilled! Thank you so much! "
Taz & Benny - Two Coloured Pencil Drawings of a Tabby Cat and a Black Cocker Spaniel
I was recently contacted by a client named Pat, who was looking to commission two small pencil portraits as Christmas gifts for their son and daughter, one of a dog named Benny and one of a cat named Taz. The requested size was 8" x 10", though she was open to advice, especially for Taz’s portrait. Due to the composition, it was decided that a 7" x 11" would fit better.
Pat had limited reference photos and wasn’t sure if they would be suitable. For Benny, a head and shoulders pose was preferred, showing him as he often appeared, wet from swimming, with a slight brown tinge likely caused by sunlight on his black coat. For Taz, she favoured a full-body image and included an extra photo in case it better showed his eye colour. She were open to guidance throughout to ensure the portraits captured each pet accurately.
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"Just received the portraits. They are stunning and so lifelike. I've just left them to be framed and they will be ready for Christmas. Thanks again, you are so talented."
Once I completed all the Christmas commissions, I took a well-deserved break to recharge. Now, I'm back in the studio, creating new articles for my Step by Step Art website. There are numerous tasks to accomplish behind the scenes. If you're interested in booking a personalised commission or are an artist searching for helpful articles, and mini-tutorials, click on the links below to visit my website.
Here's hoping 2018 is a wonderful year for you!
Karen
Here's hoping 2018 is a wonderful year for you!
Karen
BEN
Cocker Spaniel in Acrylics
Size: 9" x 12"
Completed: 16th December 2017
Completed: 16th December 2017
This article provides insight into the meticulous process of creating an acrylic painting portraying Ben, a Cocker Spaniel, from the initial photograph to the final framed piece. Sadly, Ben had died in January 2016, prompting Kathleen to contact me with a request to create a portrait of him as a Christmas gift for her niece. Continue reading for a detailed account of this process.
Kathleen only had physical photographs of Ben, and although I typically work with digital images, I understand that there are times when only physical photos are available. Ideally, it is best to scan these and email them to me, allowing me to determine if I can work from one of them. Since Kathleen did not have access to a scanner, she sent the photos directly to me via special delivery so that I could scan them. I kept the photos safe and returned them to her along with the painting.
Working from physical photographs
The image above served as the reference for Sam's portrait. As evident from the magnified version, it possesses almost no definition. Digital photographs provide me with the ability to enhance detail through adjustments. In contrast, physical photographs typically lack the level of detail found in digital images, so zooming in on a scanned file yields very little clarity. When I am creating a pet portrait and can access additional photographs of the same breed online, it almost always provides a beneficial solution.
In this case, I was able to provide a generalised interpretation of Sam, suggesting that a full-body portrait is the most feasible option due to the absence of fine detail. Although head-and-shoulders portraits are the most commonly requested format, full-body portraits deliver a more classical presentation. The background was chosen from my personal photographic collection, following a collaborative process with Kathleen to identify the most appropriate option.
Kathleen requested that the painting be framed to enhance the presentation of the portrait as a complete package. I presented her with a selection of frame samples for her consideration. She ultimately selected a teak moulding. Upon receiving her confirmation that no further modifications were required, I moved on to the varnishing stage. After ensuring safe packaging, I dispatched the item with a 24-hour express delivery service to ensure its arrival the following day.
| | " Portrait arrived safely and I am delighted with it. The likeness is amazing and I know my niece is going to love it. Here's wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year! " Kathleen R |
For more information about my custom-made portraits, please explore the links below. You can view the complete collection of my work in the pet portraits gallery, which includes pieces created with Coloured Pencils as well as Oil Pastels.
Should you be interested in commissioning a custom portrait, find out more on the 'How to commission a portrait' link below.
Should you be interested in commissioning a custom portrait, find out more on the 'How to commission a portrait' link below.
Portrait size: 12" x 12"
BuBu had recently passed away, and Joanne wanted to gift her husband a portrait of him for Christmas as a heartfelt tribute to their much-loved Boxer dog. Planning the surprise came with its challenges, as she needed her husband to unknowingly help select his favourite images, so we could identify one suitable for reference. Joanne shared a wide array of photos; while many weren't ideal for a formal portrait, they were full of insight into BuBu’s colouring and character, helping me understand the soul behind the dog. This page walks through how BuBu's portrait came together, offering a glimpse into the process that shaped it.
Before any pencil touched paper, the first challenge was to create the perfect reference image, and that takes time. It doesn’t matter how many photos a client sends, or how many tweaks are needed to get there; what matters is finding the image that truly works. In BuBu’s case, it took nearly three weeks to finalise the composition. The best photo had been taken indoors with uneven lighting, and his ears were unnaturally positioned, not quite the natural stance we wanted.
I ended up superimposing his ears from a second photo to achieve a more relaxed pose. I also made subtle adjustments to the proportions, reducing his head size slightly to better balance with his body. His eyes were tweaked so that he looked forward, and I softened his mouth and harmonised the facial tones using details from several other photos. Joanne had also sent images of a park they used to walk in together, which became the backdrop, quietly framing the portrait without taking focus from BuBu himself.
The fur in my coloured pencil drawings is built up using fine individual strokes, adding depth and enhancing realism.
As expected, the most time-consuming part of BuBu’s portrait was carefully rendering the leaves across the background trees. With years of experience drawing Boxer dogs in coloured pencil, the process of capturing BuBu’s likeness came more naturally, but I found myself spending extra time refining the finer details to make the piece feel truly lifelike. Working on a larger 12" x 12" format allowed room for precision and gave space for a scenic background that beautifully framed BuBu’s gentle pose without pulling attention away from him. Below are a few in-progress images that offer a glimpse into how the portrait evolved during the drawing process.
CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL
 This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing in a simulated display using the ArtStage app | " Just wanted to let you know that I absolutely love BuBu. He has now gone for framing and I will send a picture to you when I get him back next week. Once Christmas is over and Shane has received the gift, you are more than welcome to Bu's progress and final image online. It is just amazing. " Joanne Keane Dublin, Ireland |
If you're looking for a unique gift or a way to commemorate a special occasion, I offer custom pet portraits of all dog breeds as well as other beloved pets. I ensure a realistic and heartfelt representation of your beloved pet. For more information, please visit the links below or get in touch through my Contact page or email me at: [email protected] to share your ideas.
Update July 2025: At the moment, I’m unable to ship to the EU and Northern Ireland due to current GSPR regulations. You can find more information about this on my Terms & Service page.
Update July 2025: At the moment, I’m unable to ship to the EU and Northern Ireland due to current GSPR regulations. You can find more information about this on my Terms & Service page.
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Karen M Berisford
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