Everything You Need to Know About Personalised Watercolour Portraits
Looking for a gift that actually means something? A personalised watercolour portrait is a hand-painted original: made from your photo, of the person you want to celebrate. No two are the same, and no one throws them away.
This page covers everything you need to know: what to expect, how to order, and whether it's right for what you have in mind.
What is a custom watercolour portrait?
A custom watercolour portrait is an original painting made from your photo. I paint each one by hand in watercolour. No templates, no AI, no prints. What you receive is the actual painting, the only one in existence.
My style is warm and characterful rather than photorealistic. I capture how someone carries themselves; their expression, their way of dressing, the detail that makes them recognisable, rather than copying a photo line for line.
Are watercolour portraits a good gift idea?
The people who commission portraits are usually looking for something that outlasts the occasion. Birthdays, anniversaries, Mother's Day, Christmas, farewells, birth announcements, and sometimes no occasion at all, just a person worth celebrating.
I've also painted portraits for people who wanted to commemorate someone they've lost. That's some of the most meaningful work I do.
If you want a gift that someone will keep, frame, and still have in ten years, a portrait is hard to beat.
How do I commission a watercolour portrait?
Commissioning a portrait is straightforward.
- Choose your size: A6, A5, or A4, based on how many people or pets you'd like included.
- Upload a clear photo or photos showing the face and hair well, preferably front-facing.
- Add any optional notes: a specific outfit, a meaningful detail, or a personal message to include with the portrait.
- I paint your portrait by hand and post the original directly to you.
What photo should I use for a custom portrait?
A good rule of thumb: if you can clearly see the face and hair, I can work with it. Well-lit, front-facing or slightly angled photos work best. Heavy filters, very dark photos, or faces turned fully sideways make it harder.
If you want to include people who aren't in the same photo, just send separate photos and I'll put everyone together. If you're unsure which photo to use, send a few and I'll advise.
How much does a personalised watercolour portrait cost?
Portraits start from β¬ 25 for a single person on A6. Larger sizes and additional people or pets are priced accordingly. Every portrait is an original, painted by hand, never printed, never AI-generated.
Full pricing is available on the commission page.
Where can I order a hand-painted family portrait?
You can commission directly through my website. I ship across the Netherlands and internationally.
Do watercolour portraits include pets or couples?
Yes. I paint people and pets, separately or together: couples, families, siblings, grandparents with grandchildren, you and your dog. Just indicate how many subjects you'd like when ordering.
How long does it take to paint a watercolour portrait?
Standard turnaround is up to two weeks from receiving your photo. If you have a specific date in mind, for instance, a birthday or an anniversary, get in touch before ordering and we can discuss what's possible.
Ready to commission a portrait?
Head to the commission page to choose your size and place your order. If you have a question first, you're welcome to get in touch β I'm usually quick to respond.