How are the drawings made?
Each one starts as a photograph I took standing in front of the subject. The angle and the light come from that one photograph. The drawing is built from it and finished digitally, then printed on demand. No stock images, and no invented coastline. Here's the whole process, with three examples.
Do you use AI to make the art?
Yes, as one of the tools. Every piece starts with a photograph I took somewhere in Sonoma County. I choose the place and the moment, then use digital tools, AI among them, to turn the photo into a drawing and watercolor. I decide which results are true enough to the place to carry my name.
What is the difference between an ink drawing and a watercolor?
They are the same drawing twice. The ink drawing is printed in warm brown. The watercolor is that same drawing with transparent washes laid over it, in a muted warm palette, with the paper showing through where the light falls. Where both exist, choose the finish on the product page. The two sit together well on a wall.
Are the prints signed?
Every drawing has my printed signature, bottom right. They are not hand signed.
What paper are prints on?
Cold press fine art paper: 100% cotton rag, 340 gsm, with a textured matte surface like watercolor paper. Prints ship unframed unless the framed option is chosen. Framed prints come matted in a black frame, ready to hang.
What sizes are available?
Sizes follow the drawing. Each one comes in the standard US frame sizes that match its proportions, so the image is never cropped to fit. The product page lists the sizes for that drawing.
Framed prints come as a 10 x 8 print with a white mat in a black frame for $85. Watercolors also come framed at 20 x 16, about 27.5 x 23.5 in framed, for $175. Both ship free.
Are the mugs dishwasher safe?
Yes. Ceramic mugs are lead free, BPA free, dishwasher safe, and microwave safe.
Can you make custom art from my photo?
Yes. Send a photo of your home, your business, a favorite place, or your people and pets. I'll draw it as an ink drawing or a watercolor and email you a proof, and you pay only after you approve it. Custom art is the shop price plus $35 on any print or gift, with three rounds of changes included: prints from $65, framed prints from $120, mugs $60 and ornaments $55. Details and the upload form are on the Custom Art page.
Can I request a specific place?
Yes, and the places people suggest most move up the list. Tell me which one on the Suggest a Place page, and leave your email if you'd like to hear when it's drawn. I can't promise every suggestion becomes a product. If you want a particular place drawn for yourself, custom art is the sure route.
Do you draw businesses?
Sometimes, when the name is part of what makes the building recognizable. Where a business asked to be drawn, or said yes when asked, that's permission. It isn't a partnership. This shop is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Sonoma County, any city, or any business depicted. Business owners can also order custom art of their own storefront.
Can I send it as a gift?
Yes. Enter their address at checkout and it ships straight to them. Then send them one of our free On Its Way cards: save a card, and text or email it with a note of your own so they know something is coming. Gift wrap isn't available, and everything ships in plain packaging.
Where is my order?
You'll get an email with a tracking number when each parcel ships. Everything is printed after you order, so plan on 4 to 10 business days from order to door. An order with more than one kind of item arrives in separate parcels from different print partners, each with its own tracking. Nothing 10 business days after the ship date? Email me your order number and I'll trace it or send a replacement.
Can I change or cancel my order?
Yes, within one hour of ordering. Email hello@sonomacountygifts.com with your order number. After the first hour the order goes into production, and the address and items are locked.
What is your return policy?
Everything is made for your order, so I can't take returns or exchanges for a change of mind. If anything arrives damaged, defective or wrong, send me a photo within 30 days and I'll replace it or refund you. Keep the item. Full details are in the Refund Policy.
What if something arrives damaged or wrong?
Send a photo of the item and the packaging within 30 days of delivery. I'll ship a replacement at no cost, or refund you if you'd rather. Keep the damaged one.
When should I order for the holidays?
For delivery before Christmas, order by Monday, December 7. Photos for custom art need to be in by December 1. After that, a gift card arrives instantly by email.
How do I care for a cutting board?
Hand wash with warm soapy water and dry it right away. Keep it out of the dishwasher and don't let it soak. A little food-safe mineral oil now and then keeps the wood from drying out.
Where do you ship?
The lower 48 states and Washington, DC. Alaska, Hawaii, US territories, and international addresses are not available at present. Details are on the Shipping and Returns page.
Do you sell wholesale?
Yes. Shops, galleries, tasting rooms and inns can carry prints, framed prints, mugs and ornaments. Terms and minimums are on the wholesale page.
Do you give back?
Yes. 1% of every purchase goes to The Centered Man Foundation, building a local community of men who work together to be authentic, develop themselves, and serve others. I serve as its board chair, and the donation is paid quarterly.
How do I reach you?
Email hello@sonomacountygifts.com or use the contact page. I answer within two business days. For an order problem, include your order number.