How we make our custom pet portraits

As a sculptor, creating custom pet sculptures is a process that combines both artistic intuition and meticulous attention to detail. Each project begins with an in-depth consultation where I get to know your beloved pet through photos, videos, and stories. This initial phase is crucial because it allows me to understand your pet’s unique personality, quirks, and physical characteristics, which are the heart of what makes them special. During this time, I gather images from different angles to capture the essence of their posture, expressions, and fur patterns. Whether your pet is playful and full of energy or calm and dignified, these nuances shape the foundation of the sculpture.

Once I have all the necessary visual references and insights, I begin the sculpting process. Starting with a wire or armature base, I create the underlying structure that supports the final form. This step ensures the sculpture has a strong, balanced framework. I then move to the modeling stage, where I meticulously apply layers of clay or a chosen medium to build the body shape and facial features. At this point, the likeness of your pet begins to emerge, as I focus on capturing the proportions and characteristic traits that make them unique. This is where I sculpt every detail, from the tilt of an ear to the soft contours of their fur.

The next stage involves refining and texturing. This is perhaps one of the most intricate parts of the process, where I use specialized tools to create the subtle textures of fur, paws, and facial features. This is the stage where your pet’s character really comes to life. If your pet has distinct markings or a particularly unique expression, I pay extra attention to these details, making sure the sculpture feels as lifelike and true to their personality as possible. Depending on the material, the sculpture may also undergo drying or curing phases, which allow me to carefully finish the surface before I can create a cast moulding of the sculpture.

After the sculpting is complete, I move into the casting process. This is where I create a custom mold of the sculpture, carefully encasing it in a material like silicone to capture every fine detail. Once the mold is set, I pour the final material into it—whether that’s ceramic, bronze, or hydrostone, depending on your preference. This casting phase ensures that the sculpture has a lasting and durable finish. Each material offers different qualities: ceramic for a classic, smooth feel; bronze for a timeless, elegant appearance; and hydrostone for a solid, sturdy finish.

The final result is a custom pet sculpture that beautifully captures the spirit and character of your pet, crafted with care to last a lifetime. This process is designed to create not only a work of art but a meaningful keepsake that celebrates the bond you share with your pet.

Interested in learning more about our custom pet sculptures? Inquire below:

Pricing:

Hydro-stone: $500

Hydro-stone is a durable gypsum-based material known for its smooth finish and affordability, making it ideal for indoor display. However, it is more prone to chipping and not suited for outdoor use.

Resin: $700

Resin is an incredibly versatile material that allows for a high level of detail, making it perfect for capturing intricate features in a sculpture. Resin is also highly durable, with a resilience to cracking, making it a great option for both indoor and outdoor pieces. Another significant benefit is the wide range of color options available. Resin can be cast in nearly any color, giving you the freedom to customize your sculpture to match your personal style or décor. However, while resin is long-lasting, it can become brittle or fade if exposed to direct sunlight over time, so placement is important to ensure its longevity.

Cold-Cast Bronze or Brass: $1,000

Cold cast bronze or brass combines metal powders with resin, giving the look and feel of solid metal at a lower cost. While heavier and more expensive than hydro-stone or resin, it offers unmatched durability and a classic, luxurious finish.