PureWow

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	JANUARY 25, 2012

		HOUSING WORKS Commission a custom portrait of your home

We love a good night on the town, but sometimes there's no place like home.

Rebekka Seale knows the feeling: Last summer, the Nashville-based illustrator had the idea to gift her friends whimsical watercolors of their houses, and she's since developed a blossoming Etsy business for custom home portraits.

Her artwork ($100)--all made with high-quality gouache paints and Arches paper--is more playful than architecturally representative but seems to capture the spirit of a home better than most true-to-life renderings.

To get started, email Seale a few images of your house and any special writing you'd like on the portrait. Addresses and names are fine, but creative messages are encouraged. Our favorite illustrations are those with personal notes like "Our First Home" or "A Wish Come True."

Besides snagging a painting for yourself, consider all the thoughtful gift possibilities: Recently, customers have sent Seale old photos of their parents' childhood homes and images of friends' new apartments for housewarming presents.

Due to high demand, portraits will be delivered four months from the time of purchase. It's a while to wait, yes--but if you order now, just think how ahead of the game you'll be with summer wedding gifts.