FAQ
Q. How are Chart Art prints created?
All of the prints on our website come from original paintings. Once a painting is commissioned, the selected nautical chart is sent to the artist, who paints directly onto the chart. After the artwork is completed, the original painting is professionally scanned and digitized before being framed and delivered. Chart Art uses these high‑resolution digital files to produce the high‑quality prints we offer.
Q. How do I commission a new painting for my unit?
For over 30 years, Chart Art worked with Pacific Northwest artist Betty Vestuto, who created hundreds of acrylic paintings for us. Ms. Vestuto passed away in 2025.
In 2026, we began a partnership with Alaska artist Brenda Schwartz‑Yeager, who also paints directly on nautical charts, using watercolors instead of acrylics. Brenda is an established artist with a full schedule and is currently able to complete one Chart Art painting per quarter.
Because of this limited availability, Chart Art can accept only four commissioned paintings for 2027. Commissions will remain open until all four slots are filled. If you would like to commission a painting for 2027, please Contact Us . We will send you our checklist, and all items must be completed to secure your spot.
Q. I only need the hull number changed, can you do that?
With permission from the copyright holder, we may be able to digitally edit minor changes such as the hull number or name. There is a $100 digital editing fee. If you are interested, please let us know the print you would like edited and what the new hull number is. We will make the edit and send it to you. As these prints are from original paintings, we can’t guarantee it will look perfect. We will send a proof to you to make sure the changes are satisfactory to you before you place the order.
Q. When will my prints arrive?
Chart Art prints are made to order; we don’t have an inventory (we have too many prints!), so for every order, we first have to print the print, mat it, sometimes frame it, package it, and then ship it. Please keep this in mind when ordering. The processing time is about 2-4 business days plus shipping time, which is usually about 3-5 business days. The larger 20×24 prints take a little longer than the 11×14 prints. Typically, our 11×14 prints arrive within one week and our 20×24 prints arrive within 2 weeks.
Q. What are the size details for prints/matting?
We offer two sizes: 11 x 14″ and 20 x 24″ in framed or unframed. Our 11 x 14″ is an 8 x 10″ print matted to fit into a standard 11 x 14″ frame. Our 20 x 24″ size is a 16 x 20″ print matted to fit into a standard 20 x 24″ frame. Our prints are double matted with a white top mat/blue bottom mat. See a picture of the matting and the frames we offer on our frame options page.
Q. Do you offer unmatted prints or custom sizes, matting colors, or frames?
We do not offer custom sizes, matting colors, or frame styles. However, we can provide an unmatted print if you prefer. Unmatted prints are the same price as matted prints since providing a print without a mat requires special handling outside our usual process. If you would like an unmatted print, simply add a note in the “Order Notes” section during checkout.
Q. I need a formal quote for a larger order of prints; how do I get one?
We would be happy to provide a quote for you. Please send the print name/code, size, and quantity you would like and the shipping address the prints will be going to. You can send this information through our Contact us form and we’ll get a quote to you as soon as possible.
Q. Can Chart Art mount plaques or other items inside the framed print or on the frame?
We often receive this request, but unfortunately, we cannot place plaques in or on the framed prints. Many customers have successfully purchased their own nameplates or plaques and added them to the artwork themselves.
If you have any questions send them to ChartArt@chart-art.com
