A pencil portrait typically takes 7–10 days to complete. An oil painting takes 10–14 days. These timelines start after the order is confirmed and the reference photo is approved. In this article i share my experience with clients and what do so you meet up the date for your birthday or gift.

Artist drawing a portrait

A lot of people ask me how long a portrait takes, and I’ll be honest with you, most clients don’t plan ahead.

Some reach out with about a week to go, which is manageable. But I’ve had people ask for a portrait the next day… and yeah, that one was crazy

I once did a 24×30 pencil drawing from 9am straight to 3am, then headed to the park by 5am so it could be delivered that same day. It worked, but that kind of rush comes with stress, extra cost, and honestly it’s not something I like to repeat.

So how long does it really take?

  • Pencil / Graphite: 7–10 days
  • Charcoal: 7–10 days
  • Oil Paintings: 10–14 days
  • Acrylic: 10–12 days
  • Watercolor / Colored: 8–12 days

If you’re going for bigger sizes (like 3ft and above), add a few more days.

Why do paintings take longer?

This is where a lot of people get it wrong.

With pencil, I can work for hours straight daily. But with paintings, I sometimes have to wait a day or two between layers so it dries properly.

I’ve had situations where clients insisted on urgent paintings, and I had to deliver them slightly wet because of timing. Even with dryers and fast-drying mediums, it’s not always ideal.

If time is tight, pencil is your safest option.

Your photo matters more than you think

A good photo makes everything smoother.

  • Details are sharper
  • The process is faster
  • The result is stronger

When it’s blurry, I have to rebuild details, make artistic decisions, and interpret features. It still works, but it takes more effort.

What people misunderstand about timing

When I say 7–10 days, it doesn’t mean I’m working every second of those days.

Some days are long drawing sessions. Other days, especially for paintings, are for drying and observation.

There’s also a part people don’t see: I spend time studying the face first. Once I understand the person, the drawing flows better. It becomes more than copying a photo.

If this is a surprise gift, read this

Give yourself at least 2 weeks.

  • The artwork
  • Any adjustments
  • Framing
  • Delivery

Please don’t wait till the last minute.

I’ve seen people rush things and end up paying more or stressing themselves unnecessarily. If anything, aim to have it ready a day before your event, just to be safe.

One thing I wish every client knew

This isn’t just a drawing or a painting.

You’re asking someone to create something meaningful for someone you care about. That takes time.

And when you give that time, you get something that actually feels special.

Ready to get started?

Send your photo and your deadline.

I’ll let you know what’s possible, and we’ll make something beautiful from it.