Commission Guidelines - Custom Horse Models

Custom Horse Model Commissions
 

How to Order a Horse Model Commission

How it works

Beatrice only accepts a few commissions at a time. Currently, she is accepting only 3-4 commissions per 3-month period:

  • Jan-Mar

  • Apr-Jun

  • Jul-Sep

  • Oct-Dec

Beatrice will begin working on your commission towards the beginning of the first month and then complete it by the end of the 3-month period. In some cases, the project will begin early or end late - but you will receive communication throughout the process and this will not be a surprise.

Custom Breyer Model first steps:

If you are unfamiliar with Breyer horses, and would like your custom or portrait on a Breyer model, some information on the different sizes is below.

Breyer Traditional: The largest of the Breyers, base models run $30+, here is a link to the selection of Breyer Traditional models. Some will not be available for your portrait or custom model - so please think about a few options for your project: https://www.identifyyourbreyer.com/identify/traditional.htm

Breyer Classic: A medium-sized Breyer, these are not as detailed as Traditionals, but can make an excellent portrait. Plan on $25 or so in added cost for the base model. https://www.identifyyourbreyer.com/identify/Classic/classic.htm

Breyer Stablemates: Stablemates are considered Breyer “minis” - they are only 3-4 inches tall! They are an excellent option for a small keepsake or ornament. Beatrice included the cost of these models in her fees for paintwork on them. https://www.identifyyourbreyer.com/identify/Stablemate/sm.htm

If you are wanting Beatrice to paint a model (Breyer or other) already in your possession, that is definitely an option. In that case, the cost of the base model will not be added to the cost of the paintwork.

Other Custom Model first steps:

Beatrice is a live-show proven model horse artist, so if you’re looking to have Beatrice paint a model or medallion for your live show string, she is happy to do so! She is familiar with prepping resins, medallions, pewters, and 3D-printed models.

For a LSQ (Live Show Quality), prepwork will be charged separately depending on the amount necessary on the model or medallion. This is because the prepwork needed will vary, and is often more detailed for LSQ models than for a portrait model that will sit on a shelf.

Next Steps - Reach Out

No matter the type of commission you are interested in, please email Beatrice at pegasirider@gmail.com to establish what commission spots are available and get an estimate on your project. If Beatrice fails to respond within 7 days, it is likely your email bounced - please try reaching out via Facebook or Instagram messenger.

Many factors go into the pricing, like coat complexity, pinto markings, appaloosa spots, and dapples.

When you email, it’s best to provide the following information:

  • The base model you’re hoping for or note you will provide your own

  • Coat pattern descriptions

  • A couple photos of the horse (if this is a horse portrait)

Beatrice will respond with clarifying questions and a pricing estimate based on your information.

General Pricing

For Breyer custom models, a good estimate for the paintwork is:

  • Traditionals: 250-400 depending on coat pattern

  • Classics: 200-300 depending on coat pattern

  • Stablemates/Mini: 80-200 depending on coat pattern

Note that this is all very subjective to the specific horse’s coat pattern. But this will give you an idea of what to expect before reaching out. The base models are also additional cost if you do not provide your own.

For other sizes and types of custom model, here are more price ranges for paintwork:

  • Micro-Mini: 80-200 depending on coat pattern

  • Medallions: 80-300 depending on size and coat pattern

Buying your slot

If you would like to go forward with your project at the estimated cost and date range, Beatrice will set up a deposit (in the case of projects over $100) or charge in full (for projects less than $100). Deposits are non-refundable once the project is started.

Beatrice will reach out at the beginning of your time slot for needed photos or additional questions. You may send whatever materials you would like prior to your time-slot, but do not expect a lot of communication until your time slot begins.

Final payment, less the deposit, is due when the project is complete.

The Process

Each model is completed to the best of Beatrice Rudolph’s ability. She preps the model with sanding to smooth rough areas and factory lines, in addition to removing the Breyer logo if doing a Breyer portrait model. More extensive prepping will be done for models intended for showing.

After priming, the base coat color is established with a combination of airbrushing, pastels, colored pencils and brush acrylics. Depending on the coat color, Beatrice may use oil paints.

Once the base coat is correct to the photographs provided, white markings and other details are added, and the mane, tail, hooves and eyes are painted in acrylics and other materials.

If you are ordering a horse portrait, detailed photographs are incredibly necessary to help Beatrice create an accurate portrait of your horse. The more the better! Communication during the model’s production can also help in terms of catching inaccuracies early on.

Keep in mind that horses change color over the seasons and over the years - so be mindful of sending photographs from around the same time, if possible.

Providing Feedback

Especially in the cases of portrait horse models, it is important to provide feedback if the model isn’t accurate. Beatrice will send progress photos along the way, with specific opportunities for customers to provide edits. For example, Beatrice may send photos of the horse with its finished base coat, and ask if the base coat color is correct. This is the time to let her know if it needs adjustment. Markings will be a similar process.

Please work to provide concise, detailed feedback in a single email, versus many emails with many changes. Beatrice reserves the right to request additional fees if she finds the changes are excessive. For example, a lot of back and forth about pinto markings.

Once the model is complete, and approved, Beatrice will charge the final payment plus shipping and ship the model.

Returns and refunds

If you are dissatisfied with your model when you receive it, please reach out to Beatrice as soon as possible, with photos of the problem in question. Depending on the issue, Beatrice will correct it at no extra charge.

Deposits may be refunded if the project has not started yet. Once the project begins, no refund will be issued.

Beatrice also maintains the right to reject projects for any reason.

Questions? email pegasirider@gmail.com