Can I Order custom works?
Absolutely! I offer a wide array of offerings – from digital commissions, custom pet portraits, to custom copper plated items like DnD miniatures (maximum size of 6 inches) to jewelry. I can do basic 3D modelling only for 3D printed base electroformed jewelry due to my rather unconventional method of creation.
Orders from outside the US need to be upfront about it in intital contact, as generally I am not shipping beyond the mainland US due to the cost. However, if you are willing to pay the extra shipping and handling fees, I am more than happy to assist.
If you care to inquire about such creations, please contact my email at shyperkiart@gmail.com. Emails are usually responded to same day, with the caveat that I work a job with a 7 am – 7 pm EST commitment some days.
What is the turnaround time for my commission?
The turnaround time for your order really depends on what you’re getting! Because I offer such a wide variety of items, each one has a different timeframe.
Below are some general examples of how long things typically take. Please keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual times can fluctuate based on current order volume.
- Digital Paintings: Generally depends on complexity, but in general the turnaround time ranges from 1 week – 1 calendar month
- Laser Engraving: The initial drawing has a very quick turnaround time of 2-3 days, however the machine I rent has proven unpredicable in its available. All time delays will be communicated amply.
- Traditional Paintings: Currently my painting medium is purely acrylic, so the turnaround time is approximately 1 calendar month
- Custom Copper Plate: Copper plates vary dramatically – depends on request
Since every commission is unique, I’ll be sure to communicate any potential changes to the timeline with you directly, both at the start of your order and as it progresses. You’ll always be kept in the loop!
What is shipping like?
For all my pieces, to date I have shipped with USPS and generally intend to continue shipping with them. When a commission piece has final approval or an item has been bought from my shop, a shipping label is printed within 24 hours and shipped at next USPS pickup. Shipping and handling fees will be calculated based on the size of the creation, and I will be upfront with these costs in the invoice. All pieces will have tracking information and ample insurance. I tend to do basic shipping (they SAY typically 2-5 business days, though I tend to find it being 3-10 business days for mainland US shipping), though upon request this can be upgraded accordingly.
I am not currently shipping outside of the US as a general rule of thumb, though I am certainly open to discussing it if it necessitates it. It will just incur an additional shipping and handling fee.
What are my materials sources?
I’m committed to quality and ethical practices,
Copper Plating
For my copper plating, I use 100% copper anodes that are NSF and ANSI Standard 61 certified, so they’re high quality and safe. For the copper electroforming process, I use a 99.7% copper sulfate solution. After plating, I thoroughly wash the pieces 3 separate times to remove any remaining solution, then patina and polish according to taste.
Gemstone and Fossil Jewelry
The gemstones and fossils in my jewelry are things I’ve collected over many years from a diverse network of trusted vendors and fairs. While I do find some unique specimens and cabochons on platforms like Etsy, I also prioritize sourcing from established brick-and-mortar shops and reliable gemstone dealers, who are known for their dedication to ethically sourced materials.
Necklace Chains
I custom-fabricate all my necklace chains in-house. I use genuine leather sourced from Leather Cord USA because of its quality and durability. For other components, I incorporate embroidery floss, full copper clasps that I bought from a specialized jewelry maker, and copper jump rings and cord ends that I find on Etsy and The Ring Lord.
Laser Engraving
So far, all the wood I’ve used for my laser engraving has come directly from my local library’s Maker Space. It’s a great way to support community resources and practice sustainable sourcing.
Paintings and Genera
For my paintings and rubber stamp carving projects, as well as basic art supplies, I get my materials from well-known art supply retailers, including Michaels and Blick Art Supplies. I’d love to source more locally, but all of the local art shops have closed within the past 5 or so years.
What is my inspiriation?
I draw inspiration from a massive pool of ideas. I am an avid learner – I love to learn about paleobiology, biology, archeology, anthrology, trains, history… neat little facts. I love to play tabletop role playing games like Dungeons and Dragons, and that is a massive source of inspiration to create interesting characters with intricate backstories. I play video games occasionally, though the most impactful to my life was an indie game called Undertale. It heavily inspired the worldbuilding for my college capstone, where I designed a video game concept where similarly to Undertale your choices very much matter, but rather than a game of Hopes and Dreams, it was a game of Expectations, and either subverting or conforming to them.
I learned how to do copper plating by being inspired by an online small business owner, and figured out how to do it myself by a lot of trial and error, books, and youtube videos. I have very little formal education in traditional painting or really any physical mediums. I tend to be inspired to learn how to paint, sculpt, and carve based off of Instagram videos by other creators. And a lot of experimenting and effort. For the laser engraving, I had a mentor who taught me the basics, and showed me the incredible resources at my local library’s Makers Space.
What is the best way to contact me if there is a problem?
My email – shyperkiart@gmail.com – 1000%. I check my email frequently throughout the day. The best times to reach me are from 9 am – 11 pm EST, though this timeframe fluctuates as I do have a regular job that is my main source of income, and during the Mon – Friday work week it is my main focus during working hours. However, pending some emergency that I will do my best to communicate, I will respond within 24 hours; 48 hours at the maximum.
Well, how do I contact you?
My email is shyperkiart@gmail.com. Please do not hesitate to contact me there for any and all inquiries about commissions or questions. I will always endeavor to respond to you within 24 hours; 48 at the maximum.
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