Original portraits with an artist's certificate
From the artist's hands to yours
Your pencil or colored pencil Original is drawn by hand on paper. It comes with a protective fixative finish and an artist's certificate of authenticity. The artist normally signs the drawing, and we pack it carefully for shipping.
- Drawn by hand
- Artist's certificate included
- Carefully packed
A look inside the studio
From the first stroke to the signature
Two short glimpses of our work: how a portrait takes shape on paper and how we work on the final details.
The signature, by hand
Two photos, one shared portrait
The care behind your original
A familiar look, a smile, the way someone holds themselves. Our artists pay attention to these small details and build the portrait one stroke at a time.
Your original drawing
You receive the physical drawing made for your order. Our original drawings are available in pencil or colored pencil. Your photo guides the artist, who draws the portrait by hand.
A protective fixative finish
Once the drawing is finished, we apply a protective fixative spray. This final step is part of the care that goes into completing a Sketchus original drawing.
The artist's signature
Your original normally carries the artist's signature. If you prefer it unsigned, let us know in your order notes. Your portrait arrives without a Sketchus logo or watermark.
A certificate for your artwork
Your original comes with a certificate of authenticity from the artist, documenting the handmade Sketchus artwork. Keep it with your order information.
A closer look at the details
Three examples from our portrait gallery, showing the reference photos alongside the drawings.
Frames shown are for presentation. Check your chosen option for what is included.
Care through the final step
Carefully packed for the journey to you
A portrait is often a personal gift or a way to keep someone close. We protect and carefully wrap your original before shipping it to you.
If you have a question about your artwork or shipment, contact us with your order number. It helps us find your order and give you the right support.
A good home for your portrait
Handle the drawing by its edges where possible, and keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight. Ask us if you would like advice on storing or framing your artwork.
Choose the version that is right for you
Original drawing
You receive the actual artwork drawn by hand on paper. The fixative finish, signature and certificate described on this page apply to this version.
Fine-art print
An artist also starts this version by drawing your portrait by hand. The finished drawing is then scanned in high resolution and reproduced as a premium fine-art print on art paper. You receive the print of the drawing. See your selected option for what is included.
A few things to know before you order
Does my original include a certificate of authenticity?
Yes. Your original Sketchus drawing comes with a certificate of authenticity from the artist. The details on this page refer to the Original option.
Is my original drawing finished with fixative spray?
Yes. We apply protective fixative spray to our finished original drawings. It is part of the final work on your original before we pack it for shipping.
Can I request a portrait without a signature?
Yes. The artist normally signs your original. If you would prefer no signature, please write “No signature” in the notes for the artist when you order.
Why do some example pictures show a Sketchus logo?
Watermarks protect the example pictures we publish. Your ordered portrait arrives without a Sketchus logo or watermark. The artist's signature is separate.
Who draws my portrait?
An artist from the Sketchus team draws your portrait by hand. Sketchus has been creating custom portraits from photos since 2005. Visit our artist page to meet the people behind the artwork.
Can I ask a question before ordering?
Of course. Send us your photo or question. We can help you choose a reference photo and explain which option fits what you have in mind. When you are ready, you can order your original online.
A hand-drawn portrait of someone you love
Choose your original drawing, size and reference photo. We will draw your portrait and carefully prepare it for its journey to you.
Start your portrait