Everything you need to know about buying, commissioning, and caring for original art from Molly Frantzen. If your question isn’t answered here, feel free to contact me — I’m always happy to help.
Buying Original Art
Every painting in my shop shows its current availability. If a painting is marked “Available,” it’s ready to purchase. If it’s marked “Sold,” the original has found a home — but many sold paintings are still available as giclee prints. If you’re interested in a piece and want to confirm availability before ordering, just send me an email at mollyfrantzenart@gmail.com.
Yes, every original painting I sell is a unique, handmade work of art. Each is painted by me in my Maine studio using professional-grade materials. No two are identical. When you buy an original, you’re getting the only one in the world. Every original ships with a signed certificate of authenticity.
I accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay through my Shopify checkout. All transactions are processed through secure, encrypted payment systems.
I don’t currently operate a walk-in gallery, but I’m happy to provide additional photos, video walkthroughs, and close-up detail shots of any painting you’re considering. Just reach out and ask. I also offer a 14-day return policy, so if a painting doesn’t feel right in your space, you can return it for a full refund.
I can include a handwritten gift note with any order — just add your message in the order notes at checkout. For commissions being given as gifts, I can coordinate timing and ship directly to the recipient.
Original paintings on paper (watercolors, gouache) ship unframed, ready to frame. I recommend framing behind UV-protective glass for longevity. Acrylic paintings on gallery-wrapped canvas have finished edges and can be displayed either framed or unframed.
If you’d like framing recommendations, I’m happy to suggest framers who work well with original art. I wrote a detailed guide here: How to Frame Watercolor Paintings.
Premium Prints on Archival Paper
A giclee (pronounced “zhee-clay”) is a museum-quality fine art reproduction created using professional inkjet technology with archival pigment inks on premium paper. Unlike standard poster prints, giclees capture the color depth, detail, and luminosity of the original painting with remarkable accuracy. Properly displayed, a giclee print will maintain its color for over 100 years. I go into much more detail in my guide: What Makes a Good Giclee Print?
Limited edition prints are produced in a set quantity — typically 25 to 100 copies per image. Each is hand-signed and numbered by me in pencil (e.g., “12/50”). Once the edition sells out, no additional prints are made. Open edition prints are available in unlimited quantities for as long as I offer them. They’re the most affordable way to collect my work. Both editions use identical archival materials and print quality.
My giclee prints are produced on heavyweight, acid-free, 100% cotton fine art paper using archival pigment inks. The paper has a soft, slightly textured surface that echoes the feel of professional watercolor paper.
Prints ship unframed. I recommend framing behind UV-protective glass or acrylic for lasting color integrity. Standard frame sizes (5×7, 8×10, 11×14, 16×20) are widely available at frame shops and online retailers.
Commissions
Commission pricing is based on size, medium, and complexity. Starting prices range from $400 for small watercolors (8×10) to $2,500+ for large acrylics on canvas. I provide a detailed quote for every commission inquiry. See my full pricing guide on the commissions page.
Most commissions are completed within 4–6 weeks from the date of deposit. Larger or more complex pieces may take 8–10 weeks. I’ll give you a specific timeline when I quote your project. Rush commissions may be available with a 25% surcharge.
The most helpful things are: a description of what you’d like painted, reference photos (the more the better), your preferred size and medium, and any specific details about color, composition, or mood. Don’t worry if your idea isn’t fully formed — part of my job is helping you shape the concept. You can submit a commission request here.
I share work-in-progress photos at multiple stages throughout the painting process. At each checkpoint, you can provide feedback and I’ll make adjustments. This collaborative approach means the final painting reflects your vision. I haven’t had a client who wasn’t happy with their finished commission, but I always work to make it right.
Absolutely. Many of my most meaningful commissions have been memorial portraits of beloved pets. I work from your favorite photos and aim to capture their personality and presence. These make deeply personal keepsakes.
Shipping & Delivery
Yes. Standard shipping is free on all orders within the United States. International shipping is available at additional cost, calculated at checkout.
Original paintings on paper are shipped flat between rigid backing boards in protective mailers. Paintings on canvas ship in custom boxes with foam corner protectors. All originals are shipped with tracking and insurance. Prints ship flat in rigid mailers or rolled in sturdy tubes depending on size.
Yes, I ship to most countries. International shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on destination and package weight. Please note that customs duties, import taxes, and brokerage fees are the buyer’s responsibility. International delivery typically takes 10–21 business days.
Yes. You’ll receive a shipping confirmation email with a tracking number as soon as your order is on its way. Orders are processed within 1–3 business days.
Caring for Your Art
Frame watercolors behind UV-protective glass to prevent fading. Avoid hanging them in direct sunlight or in rooms with high humidity (bathrooms, kitchens near cooking areas). With proper framing and placement, a watercolor will maintain its vibrancy for generations.
I don’t recommend hanging original watercolors or works on paper in bathrooms due to humidity. Acrylic paintings on canvas are more moisture-resistant, but a bathroom environment isn’t ideal for any original art. Giclee prints behind protective glass are a better choice for higher-humidity spaces.
Gently dust the frame and glass with a soft, dry cloth. Never spray cleaning products directly onto framed art — the liquid can seep behind the glass and damage the painting. Never touch the painted surface directly.
For a comprehensive guide, read: How to Care for Watercolor Paintings
About Molly
I live and work in Maine, just outside Portland. My studio is in my home, where I paint full-time.
I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art from Colgate University. I’ve been painting professionally for several years, working in watercolor, acrylic, gouache, and ink. You can read my full story on my About page.
I don’t currently have regular studio hours for visitors, but I occasionally participate in open studio events and local art shows. The best way to stay informed about in-person opportunities is to join my email list or follow me on Instagram.
I’m developing virtual watercolor workshops — stay tuned! Join my email list to be the first to know when they launch.
Still Have Questions?
I’m always happy to help. Send me a message →