How are new paintings created and other FAQ

Q: How are Chart Art prints created? Where do they come from?
A: Chart Art's inventory of prints comes from original paintings by our artist Betty Vestuto. In other words, someone commissions an original; we sell it at a very low price and retain the copyright. We digitize the original and offer different options of 11 x 14 and 20 x 24 limited edition prints. Our originals are 30 x 36 and framed in oak and brass. The price for painting the original is $595 plus $65 shipping. That price includes one item (ship, boat, station, aircraft, etc.) and some generic background. Additional boats, buildings, lighthouses, custom background, etc. increases the price $100., or more, per item depending on complexity and detail. Orders for originals must include at least one 8 x 10 color photo of each ship, boat, station, or plane (no aerial and we prefer several different pictures to get all the details) and you must provide the chart you want it painted on. Originals take about a month, but we often get backed up with several originals. Please feel free to send an email if you have any more questions. ChartArt@charter.net


Q: What do I need to order an original?
A: Browse our web site and get an idea of how you would like your painting composed; Take a piece of 8.5 x 11 of plain paper representing the chart and sketch in where you want your ship or boat or boats positioned on the chart; keep in mind that we only paint on a 17" x 22" section of the chart. The objects in your sketch don't have to be elaborate; you just need to give the artist an idea of what you want and where you would like the objects placed; Get some pictures of your boat, station, or ship. All your pictures have to be 8 x 11 showing all the details of exactly what you want painted.We often get pictures of the port side of a vessel, but the sketch shows the starboard side; so plesae keep that in mind when submitting pictures. If you want something special painted in the picture, such as a lighthouse, bridge, etc. you must include a picture of that also. Send the order form,sketch and the pictures electronically to ChartArt@charter.net. You also must send us the chart you want us to paint on. On the outside of the chart tube, with a magic marker, using fairly large letters, put the name of your unit and the chart number. Send the chart to: Chart Art Betty Vestuto 6425 Miner DR SW Tumwater WA 98512-7268 The cost is $595. plus $65. shipping. That price includes one boat, ship, or station with some generic background. Additional boats or special background items are $100.00 or more each depending on the complexity. The completed order form must be sent to ChartArt@charter.net; please do not send the order form or pictures with the chart.


Q: How long does it take to get an order?
A: Chart Art usually ships the day after your order is received. We ship US Priority mail which is normally delivered 3 days after shipping. Orders received on Thursday and Friday will take a little longer, but most orders are received within one week. If you are ordering a 20x24, be sure to include a “Date Required” on the order form as some of these can take up to two to three weeks.


Q: Why should I purchase a framed print when I can get it framed myself?
A: Chart Art only uses quality frames and I don’t think you will be able to get your prints framed any less expensive than you can purchase from us. You’ll get ours in a few days and it arrives ready to hang.


Q: Can Chart Art get plaques and mount inside the framed print or on the frame?
A: We receive this request often but unfortunately our response is that we cannot place plaques in or on the framed prints. Many customers have been successful purchasing their own plaques, disassembling the framed print (which is very simple), and inserting a plaque.