Looking for Mini Painter for Hire

[MacMathan]

I am currently playing a character based on this mini http://www.wizards.com/dnd/article.asp?x=dnd/mt/mt20020625a

I have not painted in years and no longer have the supplies etc. and I don't see that it would be worthwhile to buy them for just 1 figure.

I would like to get the figure painted similar to the image above but with a symbol of St. Cuthbert on the top of his head and if possible a weapon change to a greatclub or cudgel of some sort. The mini is a multi-part casting so it would need to be pinned at the joints for durability.

If possible I would like to find someone to do the work in or near Orange County, CA so I can avoid undue shipping etc.

I would also like to get an idea of what people think this sort of work should cost.

Thanks

 

[MacMathan]

Ok, not so much with the responses so far, how about if I am willing to do some shipping out of the area?

 

[Finster]

Hi MacMathan,

I used to sell my painted and converted miniatures on Ebay. I do not do that anymore, and am not offering my services at this point, but I would like to point out some things.

Painting the Symbol on the head would require a modicum of free-hand ability, especially if it needs to be recognizeable as a specific symbol. This means you are looking at hiring from a smaller subset of professional miniature painters. By extension that means a higher price.

You also want conversion work. With you supplying the parts, or with the artist finding the parts? If you supply the parts (Reaper makes weapon packs) then there should be no question as to what the finished product will look like. If the artist is required to find the parts, you should have them send you a "proof" of some kind (a photo or link to an online catalogue) before they begin working, or you could end up with something you had not expected. Again, doing conversion work of this kind is tricky, and depending on the desired quality of your finished product, you may end up hiring from a smaller subset of miniature painters with yet another price increase.

Also, following the link in your original post I noticed this mini is from the Chainmail line. If this miniature is out of print you may have trouble finding a replacement if the artist you hire hoses it over, so be carefull to hire a dependable artist with references and a strong portfolio containing conversions.

I am not sure what to tell you about price. In the world of miniature painting (as in the world of Art with a capital A) you can always get what you want, but expect to pay for it. I would suggest looking for a painting "studio", or collection of mini painters who have banded together. They should be able to offer a portfolio and services at a resonable price. Check out coolminiornot.com to see what your dollar will buy, and make your decision accordingly.

I hope this helps you get exactly what you want. I know it sounds like a lot of work, but you will get out of it what you put into it. If you just want a simple slap-dab job, take it down to your local game shop and ask around for a hobby painter able to take an hour or two. If you want a masterpiece you will probably end up shipping the parts over-seas and waiting a couple of months. It's up to you to find a happy medium.

PS If you ship the parts to the artist, remember to include return postage.

 

[MacMathan]

Finster,

Thank you for the knowledgable reply. You have enlightened me to some aspects of the process that I had not thought of.

Sounds like I will have to scale back what I am looking for and/or go ahead and pick up some supplies to try it myself.

Thanks,

 

[Brimshack]

You might try approaching one of these two painters:

http://www.megsminiatures.com/

http://www.jubilantcreation.com/

Both Megan and Alison are fast, professional, and very talented. Neither is right in CA, but they aren't so far away as to create a huge shipping bill either.

 

[Finster]

Finster,

Thank you for the knowledgable reply. You have enlightened me to some aspects of the process that I had not thought of.

Sounds like I will have to scale back what I am looking for and/or go ahead and pick up some supplies to try it myself.

Thanks,

You're very welcome.

I think you should go get some paints and a couple brushes. Combine this with a jar of cold water and get to work! Painting is FUN!