So you're interested in commissioning a home...
This page will tell you all about the process of commissioning a portrait of the home of your choice. You will learn about the process of placing an order, how your home will be designed and created, and learn what to expect from your commission. If you have any questions about the process, please do not hesitate to reach out at hello@themonsterslounge.com. I look forward to working with you!
How it works
An embroidered portrait of your home is a detailed process. At least 20 hours of designing and stitching will go in to the creation of your artwork. Each embroidered home is entirely unique, there will be no other like it in the world. This is why we take our time at the beginning and during the stitching process to make your artwork perfect. The following outlines the process for commissioning your home.
Connect
We begin with a conversation. You tell me a little about what you are envisioning for your home. To get the creative juices flowing you will receive an email detailing the basic information required however the more information the better. We will chat back and forth about your wishes and eventually land on a plan together.
Design
Once we have ascertained the concept of your embroidered home, you will receive a 2D design of your artwork so you can see how it will all be laid out. At this point it can be difficult to resist the temptation to focus on the small details. It is important that you try to focus on the big picture (pun intended). At this point we are simply establishing structure. Your final piece will look very different from the 2D design
Creation
This is when your piece comes to life. Your piece will be born of 1000s of plunges of the needle, 100s of snips of scissors and untold lengths of thread to create your unique piece. Each home takes at least 20 hours of pure hand-stitching. A lot of love goes into your piece. Once complete it will be expertly mounted on to foam board and sent home to you.
Learn how your piece is made
Each embroidered home is entirely unique, however there are similarities in the process of how it is built. Select the arrows below to see how your home will be captured as art.
Design
First we need to establish the structure of the portrait. Here we design the layout of the major parts such as the house, trees, aspect. This is similar to what a client will receive in order to approve the layout of the artwork
Inspiration Gallery
For inspiration, please peruse these previous works. This are not in any particular order. Please note I am no longer offering embroidered homes framed in embroidery hoops.
About the artist
This is who will be creating your artwork.
Theresa M. Lawson has over 15 years of experience building homes - embroidered homes that is. Beginning as a simple gift for her sister, these intricately stitched homes are now hung in homes all over the world.
Theresa's embroidering journey began 3 decades earlier as she watched her mother and grandmother create wonderful works of fiber art. Since then she has continually learned and refined her stitching, often going against the grain by creating her own process and stitches to achieve her unique textural style.
Learn more about Theresa in the about page here:
How much is a portrait?
This will vary depending on size and amount of detail requested. On average 10 x 14 piece with house and garden will be around $250
What if I change my mind?
You may cancel at anytime however the 20% deposit is non-refundable. If you have received your artwork, no refund can be given. If you would like to cancel, please try to do this as soon as possible and before too much work has gone in to your piece.
When is the final invoice due?
The final invoice for the remainder will be due before your item is sent. This will be after you have received an image of the final piece before it is mounted.
How long does it take to create?
This will vary depending on the complexity but no less than 20 hours of stitching. This will mean around 3 to 4 weeks before you receive an image of the final piece for approval.
Do you create art full-time?
Alas, although it is a dream of mine to work full-time as an artist, bills must be paid. I unfortunately work outside of my art which I will take into account when giving you a time estimate for your piece.
Does the artwork come framed?
The artwork does not arrive to you framed however it will arrive mounted on board and ready to be framed. I recommend taking your piece to a professional framer.
What materials do you use?
I use DMC or Anchor embroidery floss, sewing thread, wool felt and flax/cotton linen.
Do send internationally?
Absolutely however please keep in mind shipping costs can be a significant part of the final invoice. I use the United States Postal Service to send pieces. Insurance for your package is optional.
Where are you located?
I am located in a town near Seattle, WA, USA. If you are nearby and would like to arrange to have your piece hand delivered please let me know.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to get started?
1
Connect with me
The first step is to fill out the enquiry form linked below. This will tell me the general idea of what you are looking for in your art piece. I will then get back to you with any questions and an estimate for the commission along with an approximate time frame for how long your piece will take to create.
2
Book your commission
Once we have nailed down exactly what you are looking for, I will send you over an official quote for the work and an invoice for 20% of the final invoice. This is a non-refundable deposit which allows me to gather the materials for your piece. Once the deposit is paid, work will begin!
3
Approve the draft
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a rough 2D draft of how the piece will be structured within 5 business days. This is to confirm placement of everything and make sure all the elements you want included are placed as you like. Once this is approved embroidering is next!
