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As a coloured pencil artist, I’m always curious about new brands entering the market, as well as popular ranges I’ve yet to explore myself. With so many options available, not every pencil suits the way I work. I rely on materials that support realism, whether I’m building soft transitions, refining anatomical detail, or layering for tonal depth. The pencils I choose have a direct impact on the results I can achieve, so I’m selective about what earns a place in my studio.
Alongside this website, I also run a second one that offers a wide range of articles and tutorials for artists at all levels. In early 2025, I revisited one of the most popular articles on that site: an in-depth comparison of coloured pencil brands. I selected 18 ranges, including Derwent, Caran d’Ache and Prismacolor, and put each one through a series of practical tests to see how they perform in areas like blending, layering and opacity. Rather than relying on manufacturer claims or surface-level reviews, I wanted to see how these pencils behave under scrutiny.
The guide is designed for artists who want clarity when choosing materials, whether you're looking for the brand that offers the most suitable range for building soft transitions, refining detail, or working with complex layering. It’s not about picking a single winner, but about understanding which pencils suit which techniques. I’ve tested both well-known and lesser-known ranges on consistent surfaces, so you can see how they stack up across key criteria. If you're expanding your pencil collection or starting from scratch, this guide offers clear, practical insight from an artist with over 40 years' experience working in coloured pencil and includes the following brands:
You’ll also find links in this article to other content on the Step by Step Art website, including guides, tutorials and resources. It’s a good way to explore what’s available. If you find it useful, feel free to bookmark the site and check back from time to time as new material is added regularly.
Pigmentation and Coverage on Dark Surfaces
One of the first tests looks at pigmentation and coverage on black paper. This reveals how strong each colour appears when applied over a dark base, and how the core texture, whether soft or firm, affects opacity and control. For artists who rely on contrast or work on toned surfaces, this section is especially useful.
Article of interest: If you're looking to improve your coloured pencil technique or want to learn how to build realistic detail on textured paper, the Snow Leopard Eye tutorial walks you through it step by step. Click the image above to give it a go.
How Well Do These Pencils Blend?
The blendability test focuses on how smoothly each pencil transitions between tones. Using a heavyweight paper, I assessed how the core softness influences blending and whether the pencils allow for seamless tonal shifts. If you work with fur, skin, or subtle gradients, this test offers practical insight.
Article of interest: Need help with blending coloured pencils? This article breaks down the products designed to help you achieve smoother blends in your pencil work. Click the image above to read more.
Opacity and Core Strength Under Layered Applications
Opacity and core strength are also examined. I tested how well white pigment holds up when layered over darker tones, and how much smudging occurs during blending. A neutral grey base was used to ensure both light and dark pigments were fairly represented. This section is ideal for artists who need clean transitions or who prefer pencils that resist smudging during fine detail work.
Article of interest: Need practical storage for your coloured pencils? The KX Pencil Rack by Creations by Rod (Kent, UK) offers a smart, space-saving solution. Click the image above to read the article and find out how you can purchase one.
Which Brands Handle Layering Best?
Layering capacity is another key area. I trialled each brand to see how well they perform under multiple applications. Some pencils build beautifully without breaking down, while others struggle to maintain clarity after several layers. If you rely on layering to achieve depth and realism, this test will help you identify which brands support that approach.
Article of interest: Just starting out with coloured pencils? This beginners guide covers the essentials to help you get started. Click the image above to read more.
Finding the Whitest White for High-Contrast Work
The Whitest White test stands out for good reason. I used a black 300gsm paper to see which pencils produce the strongest results without any adjustments. What you see is exactly what the pencil puts down. The contrast is deliberately low to show how each one performs in real use. If you rely on white for highlights, fur texture or sharp accents, this section is worth a look.
Article of interest: With the right approach, even low-cost, unbranded pencils can produce strong results, especially when paired with the brightest white. The WHSmith colouring pencil article shows how. Click the image above to read more.
Click the image below to go to the full Comparing Coloured Pencils article. It covers the results in detail, showing how each pencil performed across the tests. If you're weighing up options or just curious to see how your favourites held up, it's worth a look.
Click through to read the article
As you read through, you’ll find links to individual articles for each pencil brand, so you can explore further a particular range catches your interest. It’s about finding the pencils that suit your way of working, ones that deliver when you need quality and strong, reliable colour. The resource will keep expanding as more brands are added, so feel free to bookmark it and check back now and then.
You can also visit the main pages on the www.stepbystepart.co.uk website, by clicking any of the images below. 
Do you have a go-to pencil for blending or layering?
Or maybe a favourite that’s not on the list? What makes your favourite brand stand out from the rest? Feel free to share your thoughts, questions or favourites in the comments below.
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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, and a young girl named Lois riding her grey horse Vinnie. 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. Acrylic Painting of a Young Girl and her HorseGifted by Joan to her great-grand-daughter Lois This acrylic portrait was commissioned by my lovely neighbour, Joan, as a thoughtful gift for her great-granddaughter, Lois, who is 13 years old.  This image illustrates the chosen frame and painting, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. This portrait was created from a physical photograph, 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. 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.  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. 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.
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]
When I first wrote this article, it marked three decades of working with coloured pencils. Time has moved on, and I now look back on over forty years with the medium. Four decades of practice have given me the chance to test countless tools, papers, and techniques, and to refine my approach through both successes and mistakes. This update brings those extra years of experience into focus, sharing what has endured, what has changed, and the lessons I would pass on to anyone serious about coloured pencil art.
Alongside my own practice, I also run Step by Step Art, a website created for artists looking for practical help and advice. While it leans strongly towards coloured pencils, it also offers articles covering graphite pencils, soft pastels, oil pastels and acrylics. It’s designed as a resource for anyone wanting to explore different mediums with clear, approachable guidance.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue exploring new materials and sharing what I learn, both here and through Step by Step Art, while remembering that the most valuable lessons are often the simplest ones: to slow down, to observe closely, and to enjoy the process. 
Coloured pencils have been my constant companion for more than forty years. The tools have evolved, the papers have diversified, and my own methods have matured, but the fundamentals remain the same: patience, experimentation, and respect for the medium. Every drawing is still a challenge and a joy, and that is what keeps me returning to the pencils day after day.
I dedicate a significant portion of my time to creating custom made portraits for clients both in the UK and internationally, in addition to running my Step by Step Art website that focus on a range of mediums such as pastels, paints and graphite pencils, as well as coloured pencils. About the art products I use
For my coloured pencil artwork, I consistently use heavyweight, acid-free, and archival paper. A weight of around 300gsm is ideal as it accommodates multiple layers and guarantees durability. Initially, I exclusively utilised tonal papers, particularly the grey and tan tones, because they provide a neutral starting point that enhances both highlights and shadows. Black paper is also a favourite, as it contributes to an atmospheric finish and necessitates fewer layers for a significant effect. For larger works, I opt for a robust heavyweight paper like Colourfix, which is more widely used by pastel artists.
A coloured pencil drawing of a Snow Leopard created on black Colourfix paper
This Snow Leopard was created on black Colourfix paper, known for its texture and typically reserved for pastel works. For this drawing, I used a variety of coloured pencils from ranges such as Karismacolor, Derwent Coloursoft, and Caran d'Ache Luminance.
I find Colourfix paper to be a fascinating medium for coloured pencils. While the texture of the paper limits the number of layers I can apply compared to standard cotton papers, a few layers are enough to attain a comparable level of realism. It was delightful to work on this piece, and although its larger dimensions of 20" x 30" exceed my usual scope, I enjoyed the challenge.
Coarse paper may cause pencils to wear down more rapidly, especially those with softer cores like Prismacolor. However, its textured surface holds pigment well, reducing the need for multiple layers to achieve similar levels of detail. Moreover, it allows for the incorporation of mixed media, like acrylics. Adapting to different paper textures can be a challenge if you're accustomed to smooth surfaces. I would recommend that you experiment with the paper before committing your artwork to it.
Handcrafted Pencil Storage Chest - Discover more and where to purchase yours.
Previously, I owned a vast collection of coloured pencils, many of them lacked the quality of todays brands and currently use just two brands: Caran d'Ache Luminance and Derwent Coloursoft. The Luminance pencils exhibit a slightly firm texture, making them well-suited for intricate details. In contrast, the Derwent Coloursoft pencils feature softer cores, making them ideal for creating soft backgrounds and layered tones.
TIP: Before investing in a new range of pencils, I always test the black and white ones first. This allows me to assess their opacity, application, and how they compare against other favoured brands. If they meet my standards, I'll either purchase individual pencils from open stock, choosing colours I frequently use, or opt for a starter set. The white pencil holds significant importance in my artwork as it must provide the luminosity needed for catchlights and highlights. Additionally, it serves as a tool to lighten other colours, thereby expanding the range of my colour palette.
Free Tutorials: Learn Realistic Drawing Techniques with Coloured Pencils
The concluding section of this article provides a brief overview of how I crafted this Snow Leopard's eye using coloured pencils on black Art Spectrum Colourfix paper. I maintain a specialised website featuring this tutorial, among others, covering various subjects and mediums for artists to explore. To access the page and attempt the tutorial, click on the image above.
I'd love to hear about your own individual insights and approaches to work. In the comments section, please share your own preferred products that contribute to your most successful outcomes. 
For an artist, there is always a high level of excitement that comes with unwrapping a package filled with freshly acquired art supplies. However, the opportunity to receive a package containing coloured pencils from a discontinued line dating back to 2005 dwindles with each passing year, making it increasingly unlikely to acquire such coveted items.
Fortunately, auction sites like eBay occasionally list Berol Karismacolor pencils, and I was extremely fortunate to discover a couple of sellers who are currently selling off stock from a craft supply clearance, allowing me to acquire some brand new stock. It was quite a surprise to discover some of the rarer colours in the collection as well. Pencils, both coded and non-coded, plus some discontinued colours can be found through these sellers. Links can be found in the article link at the bottom of this page.
What are Karismacolor pencils?Karismacolor pencils were the European counterpart to the widely favoured Prismacolor Premier pencils. The original Prismacolor pencils debuted in 1938, while Karismacolor emerged in the late 1980s in England. In 1995, ownership of the company transferred and production shifted to the USA. The emergence of new European pencil brands likely contributed to the dwindling sales of Karismacolor pencils, and coupled with elevated shipping costs, led to their discontinuation in 2005. 
The Karismacolor pencils were originally offered in 72 colours, with each pencil prominently showcasing the designated colour name on the barrel. Over time, the colour palette expanded, and colour codes were introduced to align with the Prismacolor range. Throughout the production period, a total of 129 colours were created, but due to discontinuations, the largest available set consisted of 108 colours.
Can you still buy the Berol Karismacolor pencils?Should you wish to acquire some of these pencils, the links that direct to the sellers of the Karismacolor pencils can be found below. I have written a comprehensive article about these pencils, which can be accessed on my Step by Step Art website by clicking this link.
Please be aware that I am not affiliated with these sellers. I am aware of the challenges in finding these pencils, and having had a positive buying experience myself, I wanted to pass on this information to others.
If you have fond memories of the Berol Karismacolor pencils, please leave me a comment below. I would love to hear from you! I’ve recently completed a commissioned portrait of Dougal, a Red Fox Labrador, and I’m delighted with the result. Pet portraits are the cornerstone of my work, and this particular piece was commissioned by a returning client who wanted to give a thoughtful birthday gift to a family member. As with every commission, I approached Dougal’s portrait with care and attention to detail, working to reflect not only his physical markings but the personality that shines through them. It’s always a privilege to be entrusted with such a task, knowing how much these portraits mean to the families who request them.  The primary reference photograph provided had a strong composition, with Dougal looking every inch the proud Labrador, but it lacked natural colour and detail. Fortunately, the client supplied additional photographs, which proved invaluable for teasing out the finer details, such as the warmth in Dougal’s eyes and the rich, russet hues of his coat. I chose to omit the leash from the final portrait, as it distracted from his presence and added little to the overall effect. Living in Northumberland, Labradors are a common sight, and as the owner of two myself, I regularly see Red Fox Labradors while walking my dogs. Their distinctive reddish coats are a hallmark of the breed, and this familiarity helped me ensure Dougal’s portrait was authentic. The original photograph’s unnatural hue required careful adjustment to reflect the true vibrancy of his colouring. To ensure accuracy, I supplemented this with online research, studying images of other Red Fox Labradors to capture the breed’s unique characteristics.  For me, a pet portrait is never just a copy of a photograph, it’s a study in character. Capturing the essence of a Labrador means honouring that quiet loyalty, gentle warmth, and the subtle expressions that make them such cherished companions. This particular commission was a genuine pleasure to undertake, from the initial reference selection to the final pencil strokes. I aimed to reflect not only the physical likeness but the personality so well known and loved by the family and I hope the portrait brings joy to the recipient for many years to come. Not long after delivery, I received this thoughtful testimonial from the client:
Accompanying the testimonial is Dougal’s portrait, expertly framed by a local artisan in a style that matches the earlier portraits of Seamus and Rua, Dougal’s sister. While I do not provide framing as part of my pencil portrait service due to the potential risk of damage during transit, it is always gratifying to see the finished artwork beautifully presented and ready to be cherished in its new home. It’s always lovely to receive feedback from clients. Every commission is created with care, and it’s impossible not to become attached to the pet you're portraying. You know you’ll likely never meet them in person, yet after hours spent studying their features, every tiny marking and (im)perfection, you could pick them out in a crowd.  The photograph above shows all three Labrador portraits I created for Mike and his family. The top two feature Rua and Sseamus, completed last year as a birthday gift for Mike’s father. Although each was drawn independently from individual reference images, it’s rewarding to see them displayed together as a complete trio. If you're interested in commissioning a pet portrait, the image links below will take you to the relevant pages. Each section offers a different route, whether you're browsing more of my work, exploring portrait options, or wish to request a quote or make a booking, or get in touch direct. |
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