Engrossed Certificates
A rare fine-art tradition—hand lettered and illuminated to honor someone extraordinary.
Engrossed Certificates are a rare, fine-art tradition—created to honor individuals with the dignity and beauty their legacy deserves. Each certificate is fully customized and can include hand-painted borders, illumination, and lettering in multiple calligraphy styles.
Ideal for: Appreciation Awards • Ministry Honors • Retirements • Legacy Tributes • Milestone Celebrations
Marriage Certificates • Vow Renewal Certificates • Anniversary Tribute Certificates • Naming & Birth Keepsake Certificates
Pricing
Engrossed Certificates begin at $650.
Typical commissions range $650–$1,500+ depending on word count, layout complexity, and illumination/painted details.
Heirloom commissions with extensive illumination, gilding, or crests may exceed this range.
Turnaround: 4–8 weeks (rush options available)
To receive a custom quote, please click below and share your wording, deadline, and vision.
The Process
Inquiry & Quote — Share your vision, wording, and deadline
Design & Approval — Layout, script selections, and concept planning
Engrossing & Illumination — Hand lettering and painted details
Delivery — Carefully packaged for presentation and framing
FAQ — Bespoke Engrossed Certificates
What is an Engrossed Certificate?
An Engrossed Certificate is a formal, fine-art certificate created through the historic tradition of “engrossing”—the art of beautifully hand-lettering an official document. These pieces are carefully designed, lettered, and often embellished with decorative borders, illumination, and painted details.
What can be customized?
Every certificate is fully customized. You may personalize:
Recipient name(s)
Title of the award / honor
Wording, quotes, or scripture
Date and occasion
Organization or ministry name
Decorative elements (florals, borders, scrollwork, symbols)
Do you offer hand-painted or illuminated details?
Yes. Depending on the tier selected, certificates may include hand-painted borders, florals, illumination, and decorative ornamentation. Gold accents and other enhancements may be available as add-ons.
How long does it take?
Most certificates require 4–8 weeks from approval of the final wording.
Rush service is available in limited quantities.
What do you need from me to get started?
To begin, I typically need:
Recipient name(s) and correct spelling
Exact wording for the certificate
Date, location (if needed), and organization name
Any special symbols, themes, or colors requested
Deadline date (if applicable)
If you do not have final wording, I can assist you in writing a polished certificate message.
Do you provide revisions?
Yes. Minor revisions to wording are available before final lettering begins. Because each certificate is hand-lettered, changes requested after lettering begins may require an additional fee.
What sizes are available?
Common sizes include 12×16 and 11×14, but other sizes may be available upon request. Size recommendations may be provided based on the amount of text and design complexity.
Do you ship?
Yes. Shipping is available upon request. Certificates are carefully packaged to protect the artwork and may be shipped flat to preserve quality.
Local pickup options may be available in the Birmingham, Alabama area.
What is your starting price?
Certificates begin at $350, with pricing based on:
word count and layout complexity
amount of flourishing and ornamentation
painted/illuminated details
timeline (standard vs rush)
A custom quote is provided after reviewing your request.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your project date. The remaining balance is due prior to delivery or shipment.
How do I book a certificate commission?
To commission an Engrossed Certificate, please click below and share details about the honor, recipient, and timeline.