How My Hand-Painted Ketubahs Are Made: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

There’s something special about watching your ketubah come to life, especially when you understand what goes into it. Today I’m taking you behind the scenes of how my hand-painted ketubahs are created, step by step, from the first pencil marks to the final finishing touches. This blog specifically refers to designs from my collection, which can be ordered as brand-new hand painted pieces as well as prints.

1. It starts with your text mockup

Once you have picked your ketubah design, placed your order in my website shop, and submitted your order form, the fun begins! I format your ketubah text perfectly to fit the design you chose, and send over your mockup to review and confirm with your rabbi/officiant.

2. Printed on high quality Italian watercolor paper

Once your text mockup is approved, I print it in my studio in Israel on high-quality beautiful 100% cotton Fabriano watercolor paper. This paper is thick, smooth with light texture and is one of the world's top quality papers for painting.

3. Your design is hand-painted with professional watercolor

Now - the fun begins! Your chosen design is hand-painted around the text in professional watercolor paints by Winsor & Newton and Daniel Smith. As each design is painted from scratch, it will be uniquely yours. I include color changes to hand painted designs in the pricing, but if you'd like more extensive changes this would shift into custom ketubah territory.

4. Metallic leaf is applied by hand to relevant designs

Many of my designs include metallic leaf detail. In these cases, the artwork is left to dry overnight and then the gold, silver or rose-gold leaf meticulously applied for the final touch.

5. Packaged with care and shipped your way

Your ketubah is gently rolled and packed in a sturdy tube for safe shipping, and shipped for free via DHL Express, with plenty of time before your wedding.

Ready to get started? read all about how to order your special hand painted ketubah and other ketubah types here, and see behind-the-scenes painting videos over on instagram.

Love,

Rachelle x