What do you do, exactly?
I make hand-painted, one-of-a-kind artwork that is sure to be a conversation piece and compliment magnet! I use premium acrylic fabric paint to hand-paint each item. Then, I heat-seal the design after painting so that it is wearable and machine washable up to 104°F (40°C)!
What items can be painted?
I can paint on anything provided the material is suitable. Jackets, jeans, shorts, hats, skirts, overalls, bags… send it all my way! I can also make bleach paintings on certain denim and fabric items. Just ask if you have any uncertainty.
Denim that is stiff and non-stretchy is the best to use (so that your design will last and not crack!) I’m happy to paint on items that are not completely stiff, but please note that that means I can make fewer guarantees about longevity. Paintings on denim that is stretchy or jeggings-like may crack more easily.
Ideal items are 100% cotton or close to it. To test the stretch of some denim, try grabbing a small piece of the fabric with both hands and then pulling outwards. If the fabric feels relatively taut, then it should be good to go!
How much does it cost?
The cost of a commission depends on the size and complexity of the design. Let me know what you are imagining and I will give you a quote! Here are some past pieces with ballpark prices to give you an idea:
Candy Jeans (5x5in, medium complexity) — $20
Angel Wings Jeans (medium, detailed) — $40
Koi Jeans (large, all-over design, medium complexity) — $80
Reverie Jacket — $200 (large, detailed design)
Dragon Overalls — $140 (large, detailed design)
Note: I request 50% of the price up front, and the second 50% after the painting is completed.
If we are mailing an item back and forth, you will be responsible for the shipping cost to get your item to me, and I will cover the return shipping. 😉
How long will my commission take?
I will start painting right after you ship me your item! Typical items will take between 1-2 weeks to paint. This includes time for painting the actual design and heat sealing afterwards—which only works after the paint has completely dried (it can take upwards of 24 hours for paint to dry and bind completely to the fabric). I will give you an estimated timeline alongside the initial quote and will of course communicate throughout the painting process. The final time to delivery is ultimately based on the complexity of the design, when your items are received, and your choice of shipping method. If you have specific upcoming events/deadlines in mind, let me know and I will work with you to plan and meet them.
To return your item I will use the most appropriate delivery method for the weight and shipping destination of your package. I can arrange expedited/overnight shipping for an added charge.
How do I care for my denim painting?
BEFORE PAINTING: Washing your unpainted jeans/jacket/item BEFORE you send it to me will make sure the paint goes on clean fabric and will thus last longer.
WASHING: Your design is machine washable, but it is always best to reduce washing (hand-washing is also a great alternative!). If you want to machine wash, use the permanent press/gentle cycle on a low temperature. Your design can be washed up to 104°F (40°C)! Notes: Wash items inside out. Do not pre-soak or use hot water above 30-40°C.
DRYING: Dry cleaning machines that spin-dry fabric at room temperature are recommended. Spot cleaning solutions should be avoided or used sparingly.
IRONING: Never iron directly on the painted area. If you need to iron in the future, turn the item inside out and iron on the reverse side of the fabric or put a piece of fabric between the design and the iron.
Who's the artist?
My name is Lexi! I'm an artist and current college student from Richmond, VA. I've been making imaginative art for a very long time (and particularly love when I can share it with others). Apart from the denim, I work as a freelance graphic designer and can be found reading, messing around with oil paints, or starting a new digital painting in Photoshop.
A taste of my previous digital work:
Lingering questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out!