Custom Creations
Every Paper Acorn commission begins with a conversation.
Whether you're looking for a sculptural light fixture, a suspended installation, or a site-specific artwork, each piece is thoughtfully designed to respond to its surroundings. Architecture, light, scale, and movement all play a role in the design process, resulting in artwork that feels uniquely connected to its space.
The creative development phase is one of my favorite parts of creating new work. Every space has its own light, architecture, and personality, and I love designing pieces that feel as though they were always meant to be there.
The Commission Process
1. Initial Consultation
Every commission begins with a conversation. We'll discuss your project, your space, and your goals. Depending on the commission, this may happen over email, a video call, or during an on-site consultation. Photos, measurements, drawings, and inspiration images are all helpful starting points.
2. Creative Development
Using the information we've gathered, I'll develop a custom concept tailored specifically to your space. Depending on the project, this may include sketches, material samples, digital renderings, or other visual references to communicate the design.
A non-refundable design retainer is required before creative development begins. The retainer covers the time and creative exploration involved in developing your custom proposal and is applied in full toward your final purchase should you decide to move forward.
3. Proposal & Approval
Once the design is complete, you'll receive a proposal outlining the concept, dimensions, materials, pricing, and estimated timeline. We'll refine any remaining details before fabrication begins.
4. Fabrication
After design approval, a 50% deposit is required before fabrication begins.
Each commission is handcrafted in my Cincinnati studio using carefully selected materials and built specifically for your project. Throughout the process, I'll keep you updated on progress and let you know when your artwork is nearing completion.
5. Installation
Installation is quoted separately, as every project has different site requirements.
Electrical installations
For chandeliers and other pieces that include lighting, I can handle basic fixture wiring when the existing electrical connection is properly prepared and ready for installation.
The installation area needs to have a suitable, securely mounted junction box, safe and serviceable wiring, and an appropriate mounting point for the fixture. If your home has older or unusual wiring, it’s a good idea to have an electrician take a look before our installation appointment. If you’re not sure what you’ve got, send me a photo and we’ll figure out what needs to happen before I arrive.
If an existing electrical setup turns out not to be suitable for installation, I’ll need to pause the installation until the necessary electrical work has been completed.
Non-electrical installations
For hanging sculptures that don't include lighting, I install using the existing ceiling structure and standard ceiling construction as the mounting point. The ceiling and framing need to be suitable for securely supporting the artwork and its mounting hardware.
If your installation location has unusual construction, a specialty ceiling, or other conditions that may require additional structural support, those modifications will need to be addressed before installation. If you're unsure what you have, send me a photo and we can talk through it ahead of time.
Access & equipment
Depending on the location and scale of the artwork, installation may involve ladders, scaffolding, or mechanical lifts. I am MEWP certified and can work with a trusted team of experienced installation assistants for larger installations.
Every commission follows the same thoughtful process, from our first conversation through installation. My goal is to make creating a custom piece feel collaborative, transparent, and enjoyable.
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