A custom pet portrait moves through several stages: artwork preview, customer approval, production, packing, and shipping. At Palette Tales, the artwork preview is normally delivered in 1–2 business days. Standard production takes 5–7 business days after approval, packing takes 1–2 business days, and the public shipping estimate is about 7–15 business days. Texture Art adds 4 business days to production. Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
That overview is useful for planning, but it is not a guaranteed arrival date. The total depends on how quickly the preview is approved, whether revisions are requested, which finish is selected, and where the order is being delivered.
The timeline starts with your photo
The process begins after you choose a portrait option and submit a pet photo. A clear photo helps the preview stage move efficiently because it gives the artwork team a better view of facial features, fur direction, markings, and expression.
Before ordering, review the guidance on preparing a phone photo for a custom pet portrait. You do not need a studio portrait, but the pet should be visible clearly enough to guide the artwork.
Stage 1: artwork preview in 1–2 business days
Palette Tales normally delivers the artwork preview in 1–2 business days. This is the moment to check the overall look before printing. Review the pet’s expression, colors, composition, name or custom text, and any other details included in the order.
If you want changes, request them during the preview stage. Palette Tales supports revisions during this review process. For a closer explanation of what happens at this step, see the guide to the custom pet portrait preview and revision process.
If no revision request is received within 48 hours after the preview is sent, the preview is treated as approved and moves into production. When multiple previews are supplied and no option is selected, one preview may be selected by default so production can continue.
Stage 2: standard production in 5–7 business days
After approval, standard production takes 5–7 business days. This stage turns the approved artwork into the selected portrait format.
The production estimate should not be confused with shipping time. Production happens before packing and carrier transit. If you are ordering for a birthday, anniversary, memorial, or holiday, plan around the full sequence rather than counting only the production days.
Does Texture Art take longer?
Yes. Texture Art requires an additional 4 business days in production. It is an optional premium finish, so the extra time applies only when that upgrade is selected.
If timing is more important than the upgraded finish, compare the options before ordering. If the finish is central to the gift or display plan, include the additional production time in your schedule.
Stage 3: packing in 1–2 business days
After production, packing takes 1–2 business days. Packing is a separate stage and should not be merged with the public shipping estimate.
For large artwork, also review the size guidance. Artwork at or above 24 × 36 requires simple assembly, while sizes 16 × 24 and below are ready to hang. The custom pet portrait size guide can help you choose before the order enters production.
Stage 4: public shipping estimate of about 7–15 business days
Shipping typically takes about 7–15 business days. This is separate from preview, production, and packing.
Palette Tales does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, PO Boxes, or APO addresses. Delivery timing can also vary by destination and carrier conditions, so allow extra planning time when the portrait is intended for a specific occasion.
How to plan for a gift date
Work backward from the date you need the portrait. Leave time for the preview, possible revisions, production, packing, and shipping. If you choose Texture Art, add the extra 4 business days. Weekends and holidays do not count as business days.
It is also sensible to avoid treating the shortest possible timeline as a promise. A comfortable buffer gives you time to review the artwork without rushing.
When you are ready to choose the product format, size, and finish, explore the Custom Pet Portrait Collection.
Quick answers
How soon will I receive the artwork preview?
The artwork preview is normally delivered in 1–2 business days.
How long does standard production take?
Standard production takes 5–7 business days after approval.
How much time does Texture Art add?
Texture Art adds 4 business days to production.
Does the production estimate include shipping?
No. Packing takes 1–2 business days, and the public shipping estimate is about 7–15 business days. These are separate stages.
What counts as a business day?
Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
