Expanding My Art Journey with New Offerings

I've been dreaming of expanding beyond traditional art prints—imagining art that’s ready to display the moment it arrives, complete with a beautiful frame. I wanted more variety, so I began exploring options like wood and metal prints, items that bring a fresh, modern look to any space. And then, looking into the future, I wanted a partner who could also help me branch out into other categories I’m excited about, like even apparel. It took some research, sifting through reviews and listening to a lot of podcasts to find just the right fit - but I think I found it.

I’ve loved working with my current vendor, and they’ve been fantastic. But, I realized it was time to take my offerings to the next level. In looking for the next vendor, I want to be sure I again make quality my cornerstone; it’s what I pour into every brushstroke, and it should reflect in the products I offer. After all, each piece is a small part of my story.

So, after weighing my needs for both current and future products, I’m thrilled to share that I’m teaming up with Gelato, a print-on-demand company that blends technology and sustainability. Gelato’s approach to printing is as environmentally conscious as it is innovative. By printing on demand, they reduce waste, because they don't need to print excess inventory.  All their paper and canvas products are  also sourced from sustainably managed forests. Even better, they partner with local printers worldwide to reduce carbon emissions and thus, in the process, also support local communities.

And The Samples Are In!

I was thrilled to receive my sample orders—seven items in total. They arrived separately, each one arriving promptly within 4-8 days of the order date. Here’s a peek at how they turned out:

1. Sea Turtle Art Print

My sea turtle artwork came first, printed on archival matte paper in a wooden mounted frame. The print quality blew me away, capturing every tiny detail. The frame material is of durable pine wood and comes ready to hang.  I didn't have to assemble anything.  I ordered this in a 5x7 and the frame also came with an easel back for a versatile display option.  

 

 

 

2. Framed Plums and Artichoke Prints

Next up, my plums and artichoke pieces arrived in beautiful wood frames with museum quality and premium matte paper.  I have to say, I adore the wood frame—it adds such a natural warmth to the prints.  Also, after ordering these two side by side, it was hard to distinguish the paper quality without taking them out of the frame and comparing them.  I'm thinking I can save everybody a few extra bucks and go with the premium matte paper instead.  What do you think?  Let me know in the comment below.

 

3. Holiday Greeting Cards

Next, my greeting cards!  I am absolutely thrilled with the quality of these cards.  They’re printed on 350gsm coated silk paper and FSC-certified for sustainability. The cards are beautifully sturdy and perfect for the holiday season.

 These are sold in a package of 10.  Unfortunately, they don't sell them individually, so for that, I will still be working with Greeting Card Universe.

 

 

 

 

4. Premium Poster on Semi-Gloss Paper

I ordered one of my pieces as a poster, and the quality is great.  I'm not too happy with my own artwork and I ordered it way too big to fit into my photography box.  I will try to redo this one. 

 

 

 

 

5. Canvas Print of My Ship Artwork

The canvas print of my ship painting arrived with a sturdy wooden frame. Although I love the thick, high-quality frame, the print alignment didn’t quite meet my expectations. Some of the edges didn’t line up, so I’ll be working with Gelato on this for future orders.

6. Wood Print—My New Favorite

Saving the best for last: my first-ever wood print! Seeing my art printed on FSC-certified birch wood was like discovering a new side of my work. The natural grain adds such a rustic feel. It’s easily my favorite of the bunch!

 

Looking Ahead

With all these new options, there’s so much to add to the website—not to mention all the sizes and finishes! I’m planning to launch these new mediums with new mini collections soon, so stay tuned for updates. And of course, I’d love to hear from you: are there any other products you’d like to see? Drop a comment or send me a message!

Thank you again for being a part of my art journey. You keep me inspired and pushing me to create and explore new possibilities. Here’s to the exciting road ahead!