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FAQ
We’re here to make your journey with Novakara as smooth and joyful as possible.
Below you’ll find answers to the questions our customers ask most often. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please reach out—we’d love to help you personally.
1. Ordering
How do I place an order?
It’s simple and personal. Choose your favorite style—Oil, Acrylic, Pencil, Color pencil or Watercolor—pick a size, add special options like framing, gallery wrap, timelapse video, or photo combination, and upload your photos. With just a 10% deposit, our journey together begins.
What is considered a “subject”?
A subject is anyone or anything dear to you—people, pets, even a treasured car. For example, two people and a dog would count as three subjects. Each subject helps us capture the full story you want preserved on canvas.
Can I order a custom size not listed?
Of course. Every home and story is unique. If you need a size outside our standard options, just email us at info@novakara.com and we’ll be delighted to create something that fits perfectly.
Can multiple photos be combined into one portrait?
Absolutely. If your loved ones aren’t in the same photo, don’t worry—our artists can seamlessly merge separate images into one heartfelt portrait. This special service is available for an additional $49.
Can I add a timelapse video of my portrait being painted?
Yes! Many customers love to see their memories come to life brushstroke by brushstroke. For $89, we’ll record the process and send you a beautiful timelapse video to treasure and share.
2. Payments
How does the deposit system work?
We keep it easy and risk-free. At checkout, you’ll only pay 10% of the order total. Once you approve your mock-up, the remaining 90% is collected before painting begins.
What happens if I don’t approve the mock-up?
No pressure—we want you to feel confident. If you decide not to move forward, your deposit is 100% refundable before approval.
When is the balance due?
The 90% balance is due right after you approve your mock-up. This ensures your artist can start painting with your full go-ahead and peace of mind.
Is my payment secure?
Absolutely. Every transaction is processed through secure, encrypted gateways. For your safety, Novakara never stores your full card details.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) as well as Shop Pay, PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay.
3. Photos
How many photos can I upload?
As many as you’d like. Our team will carefully review them and choose the best reference—or combine them into one meaningful portrait if you wish.
What makes a good reference photo?
Clear, bright photos where faces and details are visible work best. Don’t worry if your photos aren’t perfect—we’ll guide you if we need a better shot.
Can you paint from an old or damaged photo?
Yes. We often help families restore beloved memories. Our artists specialize in reimagining old, faded, or even damaged photos with care and respect.
Can I upload separate photos of each subject?
Definitely. If your loved ones or pets are in different pictures, we can thoughtfully bring them together into one portrait for an additional $49.
Can I send additional photos after placing my order?
Of course. Just email them to info@novakara.com with your order number, and we’ll add them to your project. We’re here to make sure your portrait reflects the memories you hold most dear.
4. Proofing
Will I see a mock-up before painting begins?
Yes. Before a single brush touches the canvas, you’ll receive a digital mock-up created from your photos. It’s your chance to preview how the portrait will look and guide us with your feedback.
Can I request changes to my mock-up?
Absolutely. We offer unlimited revisions at the mock-up stage because we want you to feel completely confident before painting begins.
How long does it take to receive the mock-up?
Most mock-ups are ready within 3–5 business days. We’ll email you as soon as it’s prepared so you can review at your convenience.
What if I don’t respond to the mock-up?
If we don’t hear back within 14 days, your order may be paused or closed. Don’t worry—we’ll send reminders so your portrait can move forward on your timeline.
When do I pay the balance?
Once you approve your mock-up, the remaining 90% balance is collected. This confirms your approval and allows our artist to begin hand-painting.
5. Revisions
Can I request changes after I approve the mock-up?
Yes. We want your portrait to be perfect for you. While major changes may require more time or cost, we’ll always do our best to adjust details as needed.
How many revisions are included?
At the mock-up stage, you enjoy unlimited revisions. Once the painting process starts, we’ll still accommodate reasonable edits to keep you happy.
Can I change the background?
Definitely. You can choose a simple color, a scenic setting, or even a background from a different photo. Just let us know your preference.
Can I remove or add subjects?
Yes. Subjects can be added or removed. Please note that adding subjects may affect pricing and timelines, as each subject adds more detail to the painting.
What if the final painting doesn’t meet my expectations?
We’re committed to making it right. While refunds aren’t possible once painting begins, we’ll keep working with you on revisions and adjustments until you feel proud to hang your portrait.
6. Painting
When does the painting process start?
The painting begins only after you’ve approved your mock-up and paid the balance. This ensures our artists bring your exact vision to life.
How long does it take to complete my painting?
On average, the painting phase takes 15–17 days after your approval. Timelines may vary, but we always keep you updated along the way.
Why does drying and finishing take extra time?
After the final brushstroke, we allow for gentle curing, hand-finishing, and studio inspection.
- Acrylic paintings: add 2–3 days.
- Oil paintings: require 1–2 weeks of natural drying for safe shipping.
What if I request changes to the mock-up?
Each revision request is handled with care. Please allow an extra 2–3 days per revision before painting can continue.
Who paints my portrait?
Every portrait is hand-painted by Novakara’s professional artists in our studio. No AI, no prints—only genuine artistry.
7. Packaging
How are paintings packaged?
We take packaging as seriously as the artwork itself. Unframed canvases are carefully rolled and shipped in protective tubes, while framed portraits travel in reinforced boxes with corner and surface guards to keep them safe until they reach you.
Do I have the choice between framing and gallery wrapping?
Yes. For oil paintings, you may choose traditional framing or gallery wrapping. Gallery wrapping is available only for oil works and gives a clean, modern look without a frame.
Do you recommend glass for oil paintings?
We suggest framing oil paintings without glass. This allows the artwork to breathe naturally, helping it stay vibrant and well-preserved for years.
Are frames supplied with matting?
By default, frames come without matting. If you’d like matting added, it will enlarge the frame size and may require a small additional charge.
Is the packaging eco-friendly?
Yes. Wherever possible, we use recyclable and eco-conscious materials. We want your portrait to bring beauty into your home without harming the environment.
8. Delivery
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes—we proudly deliver portraits across the globe, bringing your memories from our Hanoi studio to your doorstep, wherever you are.
How long does shipping take?
Standard delivery takes about 10–15 business days, while express delivery shortens this to 5–7 business days. Shipping times may vary slightly by destination, but we always keep you updated.
Can I track my order?
Absolutely. Once your portrait leaves our studio, you’ll receive a tracking link so you can follow its journey home to you.
How much does shipping cost?
Within the United States, shipping is always free. For other countries, additional international shipping charges may apply depending on size, framing, and destination. All costs are shown clearly at checkout—no hidden fees, ever.
Can I change my shipping address?
Yes, as long as your portrait hasn’t shipped yet. Simply email us at info@novakara.com and we’ll update your address for you.
9. Refunds
Can I get a refund after placing my order?
Yes. We want you to feel comfortable moving forward. That’s why your 10% deposit is fully refundable anytime before you approve your mock-up. If you change your mind, just let us know—we’ll handle the rest with no stress.
What happens once I approve the mock-up?
Once you approve, our artists begin hand-painting your one-of-a-kind portrait. From that point, the order becomes non-refundable, since the creative process has truly begun. But please know—we’ll be by your side with revisions and adjustments until you’re happy.
What if I don’t respond to my mock-up?
We understand life gets busy. If we don’t hear from you within 14 days, your order may be placed on hold or closed. Don’t worry—we’ll send reminders before that happens, because our goal is to see your portrait come to life, not to let it fade away.
What if my painting arrives damaged?
Your portrait should arrive safe and sound, but if something goes wrong in transit, we’ve got you covered. Just send us photos of the damage, and we’ll repair, replace, or refund as needed—whatever makes it right for you.
What if I’m unhappy with the final painting?
We care deeply about your happiness. Refunds aren’t possible once painting has started, but we offer unlimited revisions at the mock-up stage and thoughtful edits during and after painting. Our team will work with love and patience until your portrait feels just right.
10. Guarantee
Do you guarantee satisfaction?
Absolutely. We’re not happy until you are. That’s why we offer unlimited revisions at the mock-up stage—we’ll keep refining your portrait until it truly captures the heart of what you imagined.
What if my painting arrives damaged?
We know how precious your portrait is. If something happens in transit, simply share photos with us right away. We’ll make it right—with a replacement, repair, or refund—because your joy in unboxing matters most.
Do you guarantee the painting is hand-made?
Yes, with all our heart. Every portrait is individually hand-painted by our skilled artists in our studio. No AI, no printing shortcuts—just brush, canvas, and human artistry, the way timeless art should be.
How long will my portrait last?
With a little care, your Novakara portrait is built to become a family heirloom that can last for generations. Oil, acrylic, and watercolor each have their own enduring beauty, ready to be passed down with love.
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes. If you change your mind before approving the mock-up, we’ll return 100% of your deposit—no questions asked. Once you approve, the artist begins creating your one-of-a-kind piece, and it becomes non-refundable—but revisions are always available, because we want you to fall in love with the final painting.