FAQ
Are people still having decorative painting done in their homes?
Decorative painting is alive and well! There was such a rave about it in the late 90's through the mid 2000's that those earlier techniques (sponging) and style (old world) are what often come to mind. But that would be like saying "isn't food out of style?" Styles change and adapt to what the current fashions are. Gelatin molds (out), processed food (out)--they are out, but we still eat food! Food is in--farm to table is in, organic is in--in a way that we have never seen. The same with decorative finishes; certain styles are out, but decorative finishing is still around, as it has been for centuries.
What kind of decorative finishes are currently in style?
Decorative finishes are beautiful in 2016; layers, shimmer, pattern. There are finishes that evoke Fortuny silks, molten metals, high end wallpapers--but without the seams and more durability. Decorative finishes are modern, industrial, rustic, and old world in a new way. Finishes are FRESH! Call me, I'll show you finishes you wouldn't have imagined!
Can you handle large decorative painting projects?
Yes! I regularly do "whole house" projects; lived-in remodels, and new builds. I work with your designer or contractor, and you, on the schedule to make the experience easy and comfortable. I have a reliable crew of people that I bring onto projects as needed. They assist me with prep and tear down tasks, while I work on the artistic part of the project.
Do you paint furniture?
I paint furniture and cabinets! Unlike a lot of hobby painters, my furniture and cabinet finishes start with thorough cleaning and prep--the most important step, and end with durable commercial grade topcoats. There are no shortcuts, and no quick turnaround. Good things come to those who wait. When I am finished with your custom furniture finish, you will have a piece of furniture you will treasure for years.
Do you do regular painting?
I do the base coats for my finishes and will provide regular painting in other areas so you can have the ease of working with fewer people. If I am doing a Color Consult for regular painting for you, I can provide the name of a reliable, reputable painter.
I've never done this before, what is the process?
First we will talk on the phone-- You will tell me about your project, I'll ask a few questions. It's a screening process really--An introduction. If we both agree, we will schedule a consultation.
At the consultation--I'll bring samples that I chose for you based on our phone conversation. We'll talk about your vision, your space, your colors, your style, your travels! I will look at at your space and your furnishings to get a feel for how it may all work together. I'm sure I will have a lot more questions. I'll take measurements and photos, and with all this information, I'll go back to the studio to write up a proposal/contract.
The contract --will fully describe all work to be done (and what will not be addressed) and have a total project price.
The retainer and signed contract-- schedules your project in my calendar.
Your custom samples--will be ready for your approval about 2 weeks to 10 days before your start date. If any adjustments need to be made, they will be done before I start the work. After that,
The magic begins!
Decorative painting is alive and well! There was such a rave about it in the late 90's through the mid 2000's that those earlier techniques (sponging) and style (old world) are what often come to mind. But that would be like saying "isn't food out of style?" Styles change and adapt to what the current fashions are. Gelatin molds (out), processed food (out)--they are out, but we still eat food! Food is in--farm to table is in, organic is in--in a way that we have never seen. The same with decorative finishes; certain styles are out, but decorative finishing is still around, as it has been for centuries.
What kind of decorative finishes are currently in style?
Decorative finishes are beautiful in 2016; layers, shimmer, pattern. There are finishes that evoke Fortuny silks, molten metals, high end wallpapers--but without the seams and more durability. Decorative finishes are modern, industrial, rustic, and old world in a new way. Finishes are FRESH! Call me, I'll show you finishes you wouldn't have imagined!
Can you handle large decorative painting projects?
Yes! I regularly do "whole house" projects; lived-in remodels, and new builds. I work with your designer or contractor, and you, on the schedule to make the experience easy and comfortable. I have a reliable crew of people that I bring onto projects as needed. They assist me with prep and tear down tasks, while I work on the artistic part of the project.
Do you paint furniture?
I paint furniture and cabinets! Unlike a lot of hobby painters, my furniture and cabinet finishes start with thorough cleaning and prep--the most important step, and end with durable commercial grade topcoats. There are no shortcuts, and no quick turnaround. Good things come to those who wait. When I am finished with your custom furniture finish, you will have a piece of furniture you will treasure for years.
Do you do regular painting?
I do the base coats for my finishes and will provide regular painting in other areas so you can have the ease of working with fewer people. If I am doing a Color Consult for regular painting for you, I can provide the name of a reliable, reputable painter.
I've never done this before, what is the process?
First we will talk on the phone-- You will tell me about your project, I'll ask a few questions. It's a screening process really--An introduction. If we both agree, we will schedule a consultation.
At the consultation--I'll bring samples that I chose for you based on our phone conversation. We'll talk about your vision, your space, your colors, your style, your travels! I will look at at your space and your furnishings to get a feel for how it may all work together. I'm sure I will have a lot more questions. I'll take measurements and photos, and with all this information, I'll go back to the studio to write up a proposal/contract.
The contract --will fully describe all work to be done (and what will not be addressed) and have a total project price.
The retainer and signed contract-- schedules your project in my calendar.
Your custom samples--will be ready for your approval about 2 weeks to 10 days before your start date. If any adjustments need to be made, they will be done before I start the work. After that,
The magic begins!
Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Decorative Artist
Does the artist have samples to show you, and do they have a variety of finishes?
Finishes look different in real life from photos. You can see the detail of the work in samples. Will they be making a custom sample for you before the work begins?
Do you feel comfortable with this artist? The person you choose to do the work may be in your home for several days to several weeks. Do they listen to what you need and want? Do they understand your vision? Listen to see if they are listening to you, or are they just wanting to show you how much they know, or show off what they can do.
Do they carry liability insurance? How much?
Even when great care is used, accidents do happen. Who will pay for a damaged carpet or upholstery?
Do they have good references?
Even though art and style is personal taste, use references to check on the artists ability to stay on schedule, follow through on a job, handle problems that come up, and their ability to deliver what they promise.
Who does the actual work?
Decorative artist are usually sole proprietorships. Do they use sub-contractors, or assistants? How will they handle large projects? Who will be doing the artistic work, how will they keep the look consistent and the quality high?
Finishes look different in real life from photos. You can see the detail of the work in samples. Will they be making a custom sample for you before the work begins?
Do you feel comfortable with this artist? The person you choose to do the work may be in your home for several days to several weeks. Do they listen to what you need and want? Do they understand your vision? Listen to see if they are listening to you, or are they just wanting to show you how much they know, or show off what they can do.
Do they carry liability insurance? How much?
Even when great care is used, accidents do happen. Who will pay for a damaged carpet or upholstery?
Do they have good references?
Even though art and style is personal taste, use references to check on the artists ability to stay on schedule, follow through on a job, handle problems that come up, and their ability to deliver what they promise.
Who does the actual work?
Decorative artist are usually sole proprietorships. Do they use sub-contractors, or assistants? How will they handle large projects? Who will be doing the artistic work, how will they keep the look consistent and the quality high?
Consultations During our meeting we will look at and discuss your style, colors, preferences, and space. Knowing about your and your lifestyle will help choose the perfect finish for you. I have many samples to help us decide how to develop and create your custom finish or custom color palette.
Decorative Painting Consultations for projects are $125. Allow about 1-1.5 hours. Color Consultations for regular paint are $250. Allow about 2 hours. After our consultation you will receive large color swatches from the manufacturer for your decision process . Minimum Project Fees: Kitchen Cabinets $5000. Decorative Painting projects $2000. Furniture $1000. |
Your Work
Your finish will be unique! We want to create a finish that is perfect for you, not just re-create the one we know best. All finishes are customized, you aren't limited to what's in our portfolio.
It will be clear, with no surprises. We will give you a thorough and detailed proposal outlining all the work we will do. All changes in the scope of work will be approved in a written “change order”. Custom samples will be created for you so you have the comfort of seeing your finish before the work starts. I work on one project at a time, so you get my full attention. |
My Business
Our work is guaranteed for one year.
Yeh for Art! is registered with the State of Colorado as a sole proprietorship limited liability company (llc). Yeh for Art! is insured with a full 1 million dollar liability insurance policy. Yeh for Art! has been in business since 1997, in total I have over 25 years of decorative painting experience, a BFA in Painting from the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and my MA in Art Therapy is from UI-Chicago. In addition, I have completed intensive professional courses in faux finishing each year to stay on the edge of current design and new products. I have been a member of IDAL (International Decorative Artisan's League) for over 10 years and I am currently serving on the Board of Directors for this organization. |
