Pet Portraits in Color – A Paint-by-Number Workshop
Dockside Books | Charlevoix, Michigan | Tuesday, June 6, 2026
Event Details
Dockside Books - The Moorings at 222 Bridge St., Charlevoix, Michigan
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 from 6pm-8pm EST
A guided, hands-on workshop where your pet is transformed into a custom paint-by-number portrait, crafted in our signature expressive style.
Create a one-of-a-kind portrait of your pet in this elevated, hands-on workshop in partnership with Dockside Books in Charlevoix.
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Before the event, you’ll submit a favorite photo of your pet. Our studio will transform it into a custom Mitten Mini design—reimagined in a bold, expressive, painterly style while preserving your pet’s unique features and personality.
At the workshop, you’ll begin painting your custom piece on a premium, gallery-style canvas, professionally stretched and ready to display. Each kit includes hand-mixed, artist-grade paints made with Golden Acrylics—along with our signature Artisan Trio brush set.
Bobbie, founder of Mitten Masterpiece, will guide you through the process with expert techniques, tips, and insider methods to help you achieve a beautifully finished result. While your portrait may not be completed during the session, you’ll leave with everything you need to finish your piece at home.
Enjoy a relaxed, creative evening surrounded by fellow pet lovers—perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike.
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Custom-designed pet portrait (based on your pre-submitted photo)
Premium 10” x 10” stretched canvas (ready to hang)
Hand-mixed Golden Acrylic paints
Artisan Trio brush set ($14.95 value)
Guided instruction + expert painting techniques
A fun, memorable, creative night at Dockside Books
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Early Bird: $59.95 + tax (thru 5/24/26)
Standard Admission: $69 + tax (after 5/24/26)
Ticket Sales End 6/2/2026.
Only 25 seats available—reserve your spot early to secure your canvas.
Event FAQs
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After purchasing your reservation, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to upload your pet photo. We recommend submitting your photo as soon as possible to ensure your custom design is ready in time for the workshop.
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Choose a clear, well-lit photo where your pet’s face and features are easy to see. Natural lighting and close-up angles tend to produce the best results. We’ll handle the artistic transformation from there.
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Most guests will begin their painting during the session and continue finishing it at home. You’ll leave with everything you need—including paints, brushes, and guidance—to complete your piece with confidence.
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Not at all. This experience is designed for all skill levels. Whether you’re new to paint-by-numbers or have experience, you’ll be guided step-by-step with techniques to help you achieve a beautiful result.
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Each guest receives a fully customized paint-by-number kit, including a premium stretched canvas, hand-mixed Golden Acrylic paints, and our Artisan Trio brush set—along with guided instruction during the workshop.
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Each reservation includes one custom pet portrait. If you’d like to paint multiple pets, you’ll need to purchase additional reservations.
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Absolutely. We encourage it. Each attendee will need their own reservation and custom kit.
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Due to the custom nature of each kit, reservations are non-refundable. However, you will still receive your custom-designed kit and can complete your painting at home.
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Early Access pricing is available through 5/24/26 and will close a week in advance of the event. We recommend reserving early, as seating is limited.
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The workshop will take place at Dockside Books in Charlevoix in a relaxed, welcoming setting—perfect for a creative evening.
Address:
Dockside Books - The Moorings
222 Bridge St.
Charlevoix, MI 49720 -
Our kits are thoughtfully designed with adults in mind, offering a more detailed and elevated painting experience. However, younger artists ages 12 and up can typically complete the design with patience and supervision, making it a great option for creative teens as well.
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To allow time for the creation of each custom canvas, reservations close one week prior to the event date (6/2/26). We recommend securing your seat early, as both availability and Early Access pricing are limited.
Your Workshop Guide
Bobbie Rathjens, Ph.D.
Bobbie, co-founder of Mitten Masterpiece, will guide you through the painting process with expert techniques, tips, and insider methods to help you achieve a beautifully finished result.
With a background as a marketing professor and a passion for making art accessible, she designs each piece to deliver a refined, rewarding painting experience. Through workshops and custom creations, Mitten Masterpiece helps others turn meaningful moments into artwork they’re proud to display.