Frequently Asked Questions About My Oil Paintings

How are your paintings made?

Each oil painting begins with prepping the birch cradles. Each cradle canvas is given a QC check for any needed fine sanding in its raw stage and between one coat sealant, three coats gesso. Hanging hardware is installed for your convenience. After all is dry, the actual painting begins! When the painting is dry, two coats of Gamvar varnish. After that is dry, I give each painting an individual number so identification doesn't rely only on description. Then each of my paintings have the Certificate of Authenticity applied to the back listing assigned number, description, date and signature. See photo at bottom of this page for reference

Can I frame my painting?

Yes, oil paintings may be displayed framed or unframed, depending on your room’s style. I recommend using either an 8"x8" floating style frame or a plein-aire style frame to allow for depth (cradle board is 7/8" depth). You can also use metal or wood tripod stands to display paintings! I don't recommend placing oil paintings under glass

How do I care for my painting?

Keep your oil painting out of direct sunlight and away from moisture to preserve its colors and texture. When dusting, We use the old fashioned feather duster! We do not recommend putting paintings "under glass". Use appropriate padding when storing oil paintings so the texture isn't inadvertently rubbed off

What materials are used?

I use professional grade oil paints and Gamvar varnish when dry. I paint predominantly in Alla Prima style but without allowing the background to overtake the subject of the oil painting (do that in a thin layer and allow that some drying time). I love to add thicker texture whenever possible as I feel this gives the painting more movement and expression

Do you accept commissioned work?

Yes, but not as a general rule for 2026. This year I wanted to focus on my Collection Series. I do accept photos via email (high quality, non-returnable and with written copyright release) for POSSIBLE future work and inspirations. While that may seem "iffy", you do not pay the usual up front deposit, nor are you obligated to purchase the oil painting. I will notify you if I complete a painting from your photo, and if you choose not to buy it, I simply put it up for sale with my other paintings.

Do you paint larger paintings, other subjects?

Yes! Although my focus for 2026 was providing affordable high quality oil paintings to as many as possible without having to resort to prints (and large oil paintings tend to run in the thousands as far as price). When I have the spare time, I paint large paintings and usually have multiple easels set up in my studio to work "between" layers. I choose subjects by inspiration rather than any "must do" situations.

What about shipping fees?

The oil paintings currently listed for sale ship free within the continental United States. Email for shipping information to other locations. Your painting is carefully packed, boxed, and then placed inside waterproof mailing material.

Didn't see your question? Feel free to send an email!
Back of oil painting showing Certicate of Authenticity
Back of oil painting showing Certicate of Authenticity

Please see the Decorating with Oil Paintings page (link at top of this page) if you would like to see how an oil painting interacts with certain room settings