Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How is it that I can only see the painting on one side?
A1. Simply put, it’s only painted on one side. Although screens can be painted with the same image on both sides, most buildings are darker on the inside of the structure – enabling the painting to be seen on the outside only. ( If requested, I can paint the screen on both sides! )
Q2. How do you paint them?
A2. Every work of art is painted, signed, and dated by hand.
Q3. What kind of screen material do you use?
A3. Most of our screens are painted on polyvinyl, although sometimes I paint on wire mesh if requested.
Q4. Does painting on the screens affect airflow?
A4. Absolutely not. There is no impact in airflow from the paint. During the process of painting the screen, I use a toothpick to open up any holes that become plugged up.
Q5. What kind of paint do you use?
A5. I use an industrial-grade latex enamel which is designed to last against outdoor exposure.
Q6. Do you supply frames?
A6. Frames are provided in our shop – look for our beginners paint kit which provides everything you’ll need to start the magic of screen painting.
Q7. Can you paint a design on any other kind of format?
A7. Yes! We can make a design for you anywhere in your home or business on any kind of screen, scrim, or anywhere you wish!
Q8. What sizes can you paint on?
A8. I’ve painted on as small as 8 in. x 11 in. window screens up to background sets for large stages like cabaret shows. Single doors, double doors, and whole porches, we paint any size!
Q9. Can you roll these screens up like a blind?
A9. Of course you can roll them up. Don’t worry about the paint, it won’t wear off!
Q10. What can I do to protect my freshly painted screens?
A10. Once a year, maybe Spring, use a cleaning sponge, a bucket with warm water, and a drop or two of dish detergent. Wash down both sides of the screen(s). Let them air dry. Get a can of polyurethane spray in “gloss” finish. Put another protective coat of the spray on the screen to help keep those rich colors like new! I have customers who haven’t done anything to their screens for over 5 years and and they still look great!
Q11. How long does a painted screen typically last?
A11. I can guarantee the painted screen to last as long as the life of the screen. I’ve recently replaced some screens from the second generation screen painters in Baltimore with newly painted screens. These screens were 40+ years and the image was still very visible on the screen! Just like a good vintage wine, it ages gracefully. Mind you, I could poke a hole through these screens with my finger but the image was still there! The first and second generation screens have become collectors items to many people in the Baltimore area if anything for sentimental reasons.
Q12. What if I’m not sure what kind of design I want or where to put it?
A12. Hopefully while you are scrolling through the screen pictures something may tweak your interest. If you have your own design, we’ll use it! The design is usually the least difficult part to figure out! We sell them for a variety of uses. Wall hangings, door dividers, blinds, windows, doors, and more. The possibilities are endless!
Q13. How do I know what size to order?
A13. First, it depends on where you want your screen. If you want a painted screen for your sliding screen door, get your tape measure and measure the top to bottom length where the screen meets the inside of your door. Do the same for the sides as well. We will paint the screen at least a full two inches wider, so when you take the old screen out yourself or take the screen to your local hardware store so it can be easily sized into place without compromising the painted scene.
Q14. Do you make house calls or business visits to paint a screen, mural, ceiling, or floor?
A14. We will make every effort to come to your location whenever possible, as quickly as possible. I’ve traveled to clients all over the Eastern Coastline, including as far West as Arizona.
Q15. Can I call Bella Designs if I have any questions?
A15. If you have any questions, feel free to call or email us at any time! To contact us, click here.