Frequently asked questions
Everything collectors usually ask before buying a Santa painting: what you receive, how it is made, how it ships and how commissions work.
What is a giclée print on fine art canvas?
A giclée is a high-resolution archival print made with pigment-based inks. Every print here is produced on museum-grade fine art canvas rather than paper, so the surface and texture read much closer to Celia's original oil painting and the color holds for generations without fading.
Am I buying an original painting or a print?
The pieces listed on the site are archival giclée prints on canvas. Original oil paintings are available separately, and availability changes as they sell. If you would like the original of a specific Santa, send an enquiry and we will tell you whether it is still available and at what price.
What sizes are available?
Each listing shows the size offered for that painting, and sizes vary because they follow the proportions of the original canvas. If you need a specific size for a particular wall, mantel or stairwell, ask before ordering and we will tell you what is possible for that image.
Are the prints signed by the artist?
Giclée prints are reproduced from the original oil painting, which is signed by Celia. Individual prints are not hand-signed. Original paintings are signed on the canvas itself.
Do the canvases arrive framed or ready to hang?
Canvases ship unframed so you can choose framing that suits your room, and so the artwork travels more safely. Many collectors hang them gallery-wrapped with no frame at all, and others use a simple floater frame.
How much is shipping?
Standard shipping is complimentary on every artwork order within the United States, with no minimum. International orders ship for a flat rate of $35.00 per order worldwide. Each piece is packed with care and shipped insured with tracking. The Cookies, Cocoa, and Coloring book is not artwork and ships for a small flat fee, shown at checkout. Expedited 2-day and overnight service is available at actual cost, quoted before your order ships.
How long does shipping take?
Giclée prints are made to order in the United States and ship after a 3 to 5 business day handling window; U.S. standard delivery then typically takes 2 to 10 business days via UPS or USPS Ground. International transit typically takes 7 to 21 business days after shipment, and customs can add delay. Original paintings ship from Texas and are prepared individually, with timing confirmed on each order.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Complimentary shipping applies to U.S. artwork orders. International orders ship for a flat $35.00 per order worldwide. Artwork is shipped insured with tracking where available, and delivery times and any customs duties vary by destination.
What is your return policy?
Giclée canvas prints may be returned within 30 days of delivery for a full refund of the print price, provided the canvas is in its original, undamaged condition with all packaging and the certificate of authenticity included. The 30 day window applies everywhere we ship, including the EU and EEA. Original paintings and commissioned works are final sale. To start a return, email celia@santaclauspaintings.com with your order number and a photo of the canvas. We reply within 2 business days and provide a prepaid return label for U.S. orders; international returns are shipped at the customer's expense unless we sent the wrong or a damaged item.
What if my artwork arrives damaged?
Photograph the packaging and the artwork right away and contact us within 7 days. We will replace a damaged print or arrange a refund.
Can I commission a custom Santa painting?
Yes. Celia accepts a limited number of commissions each year, including Santa portraits modeled on a family member. Use the enquiry form on the home page to share your idea, the size you want and your timeline.
Who paints these Santas?
Celia Meadors, a Texas artist who has painted more than 100 original Santa portraits since 1990 and spent nearly four decades as a composite artist for the Amarillo Police Department. That work with faces is what gives these Santas their character.
Are these suitable as Christmas gifts?
They are among the most requested Christmas gifts Celia ships each year, particularly for grandparents, newlyweds and anyone who collects holiday art. Order early in the season so the piece arrives with time to spare.
Still deciding? Browse the Santa Claus art collection or read about the artist.
Full details are on the shipping and returns page.
