Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who orders from Inner Child Art Studio (ICAS)?

Sonogram paintings are gifts meant to celebrate the beginning of a new life in the family. Any expecting mother will be touched at the beautiful representation of their soon-to-be baby and the thoughtfulness of your gift choice. Order a sonogram painting for yourself, for your dear friend, for your sister, or for the woman carrying your child.

2. Where do I display my painting?

In the nursery! This is the most likely location but of course any room such as an office or playroom will be fitting. I can match or complement your piece to any existing color scheme. Some people choose to make the artwork the focal point of the nursery by hanging it above a crib or dresser. Check out photos seen “in the nursery” to get ideas!

3. How do I choose the style I want?

I offer four styles to fit everyone’s aesthetic and budget. I recommend reading the descriptions and viewing the gallery of each style to decide which one best fits the recipient.

4. How do I choose my canvas size?

Measure the wall space where the painting will hang or you may prefer to choose the size according to your budget. Custom sizes are also available. Please call or email me for a quote. See “What materials does ICAS use?” for canvas specifics.

5. What kind of ultrasound image do I need?

Both two-dimensional and 3D/4D ultrasound images work well. 2D images (most common) are best for styles A, B and C and cannot be used for style D. 3D/4D images have superb detail and are best suited for styles C and D but they may be used for all styles.

6. What is the difference between an ultrasound and a sonogram?

Ultrasound refers to the use of high frequency sound waves to produce an image. The image yielded from an ultrasound exam is called a sonogram.

7. What is a “4D” ultrasound?

The 4th dimension refers to time. 4D ultrasound technology produces 3D still images and, with the addition of time, shows the live motion of your baby. A motion video of your ultrasound experience is a special elective experience that fosters a deeper bond with your baby and provides excellent still images.

8. How do I send my sonogram?

There are two options for sending your sonograms:

A. Electronic files are preferred. Scan the full sonogram and email me the digital file. The file size should be between 150 and 300 dpi. If you received several images and you are not sure which one to use, you may send several which helps me select the best option for your design. Use the “attach file here” area on the order form or you may email your files to me.

B. If you do not have access to a scanner you can mail your sonograms directly to me. A good quality, clean photocopy of your sonogram is also acceptable. The image needs to be “readable” and kept to the same scale as the original (no size change, warping or cropping please). I will gladly return the original sonograms safely to you if you choose this method.

9. How do I choose my palette?

Your palette refers to your paint colors. View the color palettes to choose between one of the twelve options OR if you have specific colors in mind, choose the custom colors option. The ICAS palettes include five colors from which your painting will be made. Please note that this is a color family that will inspire the painting’s design. All colors may not be represented depending upon your style choice and what works best for your design. Feel free to include preferences and suggestions about your palette in the “comments” section of the order form and I will do my best to oblige your color requests. There is no added cost for choosing colors from the ICAS palettes.

10. How do I request custom colors?

This is a great option for designer baby colors. With this option, your artwork will not only be made specifically for you, but it will also be designed to fit beautifully within your space. You will need to mail me small samples of your wall and accent colors. Fabric swatches also work very well. Please note that if you email me pictures of your space and paint colors, an exact match cannot be guaranteed due to computer screen discrepancies in displaying colors. Sending samples through the mail is the best way. Samples will not be returned. Please contact me if you have any questions about what to send so that I may complete your custom color matching.

Mixing 2 custom colors: additional charge of $30
Mixing 3 to 4 custom colors: additional charge of $40
Mixing 5 to 6 custom colors: additional charge of $50

11. What materials does Inner Child Art Studio use?

I use quality 100% cotton duck canvases treated with acid-free gesso and professional artist grade archival acrylics. I choose paints that are non-toxic and environment and animal friendly. The sides of all canvases are extra deep measuring 1.5 inches and are back stapled. The canvases are meant to be hung unframed. However, if you desire a frame, pre-made canvas frames can usually be found in your local art or hobby supply store.

12. When will I receive my painting?

Your painting will be completed within three to four weeks of the date that I confirm your order and recieve your sonogram image with payment. A confirmation email will be sent to you when all order materials and payments have been received. Please allow an additional three to five business days for shipping if your piece is arriving to you by mail. If you have selected to pick up or have your painting delivered, I will contact you upon completion to arrange transportation details. I will gladly deliver locally up to 30 miles or will make myself available for you to pick up the piece at your convenience.

13. Is it possible to rush my order?

Yes. Contact me to discuss your request and receive a new quote.

14. What methods of payment are accepted?

PayPal and personal checks are accepted. You may use the secure “Pay with PayPal” link or select the “Pay by check” box on the order form. You will receive a confirmation email once your payment has been received. There is a $25 fee on returned checks.

15. Can I purchase ICAS gift certificates?

Yes! If you are unsure of the mother’s design preferences and would still like to give the gift of a one-of-a-kind portrait, simply click the “Purchase a Gift Certificate” button under the Orders tab. The recipient will be able to choose the style and colors to fit her needs. Refer to the “Pricing” guide for an idea of your certificate amount if desired.

16. Can I send my order as a gift to someone?

Yes of course. On the order form, simply fill in the correct “SHIP TO:” information for the recipient and check the box “I am sending as a gift.” Also, check the box “Please include the following note with my gift” if you would like to include a personal message with the painting.

17. Do you charge for shipping?

If your painting is being sent to you in the mail, local shipping charges do apply. The rate will be determined by the shipping method you choose and the canvas size. All packages are insured for their full value. If you selected the local pick up or delivery option, shipping charges do not apply.

18. Do you charge sales tax?

Per state law, I must charge the state sales tax rate of 5.75% within the state of North Carolina. The state and local combined sales tax rate for Mecklenburg county residents is 8.25%. If you reside and place your order outside of North Carolina, no sales tax will be applied.