How to Order Custom-Painted Tiles or Sinks...
Call me and we'll discuss your space measurements, your ideas for the type of design, style, and colors. I'll need your photos, fabric or wallpaper swatches, paint chips, or illustrations that you've saved. I will not duplicate copyrighted work, but I can use the elements of the design reference that you like to create original artwork especially for you.
How will I know if I like it...
When I have your information, I'll sketch a design with colored pencil or water colors and send/e-mail you a picture of it. The colors will be close to the colors you want, but there will be some differences. When I paint the actual tiles, I can come very close to the colors in your samples.
When you see the picture of the drawing, if any changes need to be made, I'll do that and refer it to you for approval. If there will only be minimal changes, that shouldn't require another drawing. Once you accept the drawing, I'll need half of the cost of the mural, either by PayPal or money order, and I'll proceed with the painting and give you an expected ship date, usually 2 to 3 weeks. The drawing or drawings are included in the cost. If no order is placed after a reasonable amount of time, I charge $50 an hour for the drawings.
How is it done...
I will transfer the design to the tile and apply the first layer of paint. The tile is then fired to about 1450 degrees, and the paint fuses with the glaze. Shading and details are then added, and the tile is fired again. If any further depth or design elements are needed, those are added and fired once again. I usually need two to three paintings and firings to complete a design.
After your tile mural is set in place, the finish is hard and durable. It can be cleaned just like you would clean a new sink. Use only non- or mild abrasive type cleansers or detergents and water, since an abrasive product or scrubber pad may scratch the surface, just like it would a sink. You may want to seal the grout every few years to keep it looking nice.
How will the tile setter know the layout of the mural...
I use a simple numbering system on the back of the tiles, and I'll include a card explaining it with your tiles when I ship them. If you are in this area, you may pick up the tiles from me and avoid shipping costs.
How much will it cost...
I currently charge $130/square foot, including only the painted areas in the cost. You can choose either 6×6 inch tiles or 4×4 inch tiles, with your choice of a glossy or matte finish.
How do I pay...
When you approve the drawing of the mural, you'll pay half the cost either by PayPal or money order. When the tile is ready to ship, I'll ask you to pay the remaining balance and any shipping charges.
When will I get it...
When you approve the drawing, I'll give you an estimated turn around time. When the tiles are shipped, I'll notify you and you should receive the tiles in 7-10 days.
Is my satisfaction guaranteed...
Of course. If you are not satisfied (delighted!) with it, I will redo it or refund your money. Shipping costs for any returned tiles will be paid by the customer.
How to Order a Custom-painted Sink
The planning process for a sink is the same as for murals. When you approve the design, I will need half the cost of the painting from you by PayPal or money order. Upon completion, I will e-mail you a picture of the sink. When you approve the painting, you'll need to send me the balance of the cost plus shipping, which may be from $25-40, usually. Your sink should arrive in 7-10 days.
After your sink is installed, the painting is cared for just as you would any new sink or tile mural, with non- or mild abrasive cleansers, but no scrubber pads or harsh abrasives, as they may scratch the sink. The paint on a sink fuses with the glaze, just as on tile, and it is fired to about 1450 degrees as well. Two paintings and firings are necessary to complete the artwork.
If your water is likely to leave rust stains on the drain area of your sink, I would suggest that no painting be used right there. No chemical rust removers should be used on the painting, as they contain acid, which will damage the painting.