Find answers to common questions about our custom painted sunglasses.
What exactly are PixelVivid custom painted sunglasses?
PixelVivid sunglasses are premium pieces of wearable art designed for individuals who want to stand out from the crowd. Each pair starts as a high-quality eyewear frame which is then meticulously hand-painted by our team of skilled specialized artists. We don't use mass-production printing methods; instead, we treat every frame as a unique canvas for intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Our goal is to merge functional eye protection with high-end aesthetic expression that reflects your unique personality.
The process involves selecting durable frames that can withstand the artistic application while providing excellent UV protection for your eyes. Our artists use specialized automotive-grade pigments and flexible acrylics specifically formulated to bond with acetate and polycarbonate surfaces. This ensures that the artwork doesn't just sit on top of the plastic but becomes a core part of the aesthetic identity of the glasses. We offer a variety of styles ranging from classic wayfarers to modern oversized frames to suit every face shape.
By choosing PixelVivid, you are supporting a community of artists who value craftsmanship over convenience and quality over quantity. Every brushstroke is intentional, and no two pairs are ever exactly alike due to the nature of hand-painting. Our customers often describe our sunglasses as conversation starters that provide a splash of color to any outfit or occasion. We believe that your eyewear should be as vibrant and dynamic as your life, which is why we focus so heavily on the 'Vivid' aspect of our brand name.
Will the paint chip or peel off during normal daily use?
One of the most frequent concerns regarding painted eyewear is the longevity of the finish, but we have engineered our process to prevent chipping. We use a multi-step preparation process that includes sanding the frames to create a mechanical bond and applying a high-grade adhesion promoter. This preparation is essential because it ensures the paint adheres deeply to the frame material rather than just resting on the surface. We have tested our products in various climates to ensure they hold up against heat, cold, and humidity without losing their structural integrity.
After the artistic design is completed, we apply several layers of a specialized UV-resistant clear coat that acts as a protective shield. This coating is similar to what is used on luxury vehicles, providing a hard, scratch-resistant barrier that preserves the vibrancy of the colors underneath. It protects the artwork from sweat, skin oils, and the occasional accidental drop, keeping the design looking fresh for years. Our proprietary finishing process undergoes rigorous quality control checks before any pair is cleared for shipping to a customer.
While our sunglasses are highly durable, they are still handcrafted items that should be treated with a reasonable amount of care. Avoiding harsh chemicals like acetone or heavy abrasives will ensure the clear coat remains crystal clear and fully intact over time. We provide a protective microfiber pouch with every purchase to help prevent unnecessary friction when the glasses are in your bag or pocket. When handled with the same respect you would give any high-end designer accessory, your PixelVivid frames will remain a stunning staple of your wardrobe.
How does the custom design process work for a personalized pair?
The custom design journey at PixelVivid begins with a consultation where you share your vision, paint design, color preferences, and any specific themes you desire. You can share reference images or simply describe a mood or aesthetic that you want our artists to capture on your frames. Once we receive your request, we review the concept to ensure it can be translated effectively onto the geometry of the chosen frame. We believe collaboration is the key to creating a piece of custom, one-of-a-kind eyewear that you will truly cherish for a lifetime.
Once the design is agreed upon, our artists begin the painting process which typically takes several days to complete due to drying times between layers. We take great pride in the precision of our work, carefully executing the intricate details that make custom pieces so special. Throughout the physical creation of your glasses, we maintain a high standard of craftsmanship to ensure the final result matches the approved design. When the painting is finished and the protective seal has cured, we conduct a final inspection before carefully re-assembling your eyewear, and packaging your unique creation for delivery.
What kind of UV protection do the lenses provide?
While the frames are the primary focus of our artistic expression, we never compromise on the functional safety and health of your eyes. Every pair of PixelVivid sunglasses comes standard with high-quality lenses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. This means your eyes are shielded from the harmful rays of the sun that can cause long-term damage and discomfort. We believe that style should never come at the expense of safety, so we source our lenses from reputable optical manufacturers.
Most of our models feature polarized lenses, which are specifically designed to reduce glare from surfaces like water, snow, and glass. This makes our sunglasses ideal for driving, beach trips, or any outdoor activity where visual clarity is paramount. Polarization works by filtering out horizontal light waves, which significantly reduces eye strain and enhances contrast in bright conditions. You will find that the world looks sharper and more vivid through our lenses, complementing the colorful frames you are wearing.
We offer a variety of lens tints and finishes, including mirrored finishes, to coordinate with the custom paint designs of the frames. If you have specific lens requirements, such as a preference for a certain gradient or color, these can often be accommodated during the customization process. Protecting your vision while making a bold fashion statement is the dual mission that drives everything we do at PixelVivid.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Because every pair of PixelVivid sunglasses is hand-painted to order, our lead times are longer than those of traditional retail outlets. For items from our signature collections that feature established designs, or are part of our annual pre-releases, the processing time is typically between seven to ten business days from the scheduled completion date. This window allows our artists to carefully recreate the pattern and ensure the protective coatings are fully cured before shipping. We refuse to rush this process because the quality of the finish depends heavily on proper drying and setting times.
For fully custom orders, the timeline generally extends to fourteen to twenty-eight business days depending on the complexity of the requested artwork. This period includes the initial design consultation, the creation of digital mockups, the backlog of work the team has already scheduled, and the manual painting of the frames themselves. We understand that you are excited to receive your wearable art, but we ask for your patience to ensure the highest quality possible. You will receive email updates at significant milestones so you can track the progress of your unique eyewear.
Once your order is complete and has passed our final quality inspection, we ship via tracked courier services to ensure safe and timely delivery. Shipping times vary based on your location, with domestic orders usually arriving within three to five days after dispatch. We offer expedited shipping options if you need your glasses for a specific event, though this does not shorten the time required for the painting process. Every package is insured and carefully padded to prevent any damage during transit, ensuring your art arrives in pristine condition.
Can I provide my own frames for you to paint?
We do offer a 'Paint My Frames' service for customers who already have a pair of sunglasses they love but want to give them a unique artistic upgrade. However, not all materials are suitable for our specific painting process, so we require a preliminary review of your frames. Generally, high-quality acetate, polycarbonate, and other types of hard plastics work best. Titanium frames can also be styled with ceramic paint, anodization, or automotive paint as well. Other pencil thin metal frames, as well as rubberized or highly flexible silicone frames may not allow the paint to bond correctly. We want to ensure that any work we do will last, so we are selective about the surfaces we work on.
If you wish to use this service, you will first need to send us clear photos of your frames from multiple angles along with brand and model information. Our technical team will evaluate the material and the condition of the frames to determine if they are a good candidate for our multi-step finishing process. If approved, you will ship the frames to our studio at your expense, and we will begin the transformation once they arrive. We recommend sending them in a hard case to ensure they are not damaged during the journey to our facility.
Please note that while we take the utmost care with customer-provided property, there is always a small risk when working with older or used materials. We cannot be held responsible for any structural failure of aged plastics during the preparation or painting phases of the process. That said, we have successfully transformed hundreds of pairs of vintage and designer frames into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. This is a fantastic way to breathe new life into a classic pair of glasses that might otherwise be sitting forgotten in a drawer.
What is your return and exchange policy?
Due to the highly customized and handcrafted nature of PixelVivid products, we have a specific policy regarding returns and exchanges. For items from our standard collection, we offer a 7 day return window from the time of receipt, provided the sunglasses are in their original, unworn condition. Because these are artistic pieces, we conduct a thorough inspection upon return to ensure the hand-painted finish has not been damaged. A restocking fee may apply to cover the cost of re-sanitizing and inspecting the frames for resale.
Fully custom-designed orders, where the artwork was created specifically for you, are generally non-refundable and cannot be exchanged. This is because the labor-intensive process and the specific nature of the design make the item unique to your personal taste. We mitigate this by spending much effort in co-creating your custom design with you and maintaining communication throughout the design phase to ensure you are happy with the direction before we start. We want you to love your purchase, so we work hard to get it right the first time through a collaborative approach.
In the unlikely event that your sunglasses arrive damaged or with a clear manufacturing defect, we will provide a full replacement or repair at no cost to you. You must contact us within 48 hours of receiving your package to report any issues and provide photographic evidence of the damage. We stand behind the quality of our work and will always strive to resolve any legitimate concerns regarding the craftsmanship of our products. Our goal is to build long-term relationships with our clients based on trust and the exceptional quality of our wearable art.
How should I clean and maintain my PixelVivid sunglasses?
Proper maintenance is essential to preserving both the clarity of your lenses and the vibrancy of the hand-painted artwork on your frames. We recommend cleaning your sunglasses regularly using only lukewarm water and a mild, lotion-free dish soap. Avoid using window cleaners, alcohol-based sprays, or paper towels, as these can contain abrasives or chemicals that might degrade the protective clear coat over time. To clean the lenses, we recommend using only lukewarm water and a soft cloth. A gentle touch is always better than aggressive scrubbing when it comes to maintaining the finish of handcrafted items.
To dry your sunglasses, always use the high-quality microfiber cleaning cloth that we provide with every purchase. These cloths are designed to lift away oils and dust without scratching the lenses or the painted surface of the frames. If the cloth becomes dirty, you can wash it in the laundry—just avoid using fabric softener, which can leave a residue that causes streaks on your lenses. When you are not wearing your glasses, always store them in the provided protective case to prevent accidental scratches or impact damage.
Extreme heat can be detrimental to any eyewear, and custom-painted frames are no exception. We strongly advise against leaving your sunglasses on the dashboard of a hot car, as the intense heat can cause the frame material to warp or the paint to soften. If you take your glasses to the beach, be sure to rinse them with fresh water afterward to remove salt and sand, which can be abrasive. By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your PixelVivid sunglasses remain a stunning and functional piece of art for many years to come.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, PixelVivid is proud to ship our custom-painted eyewear to art enthusiasts all over the world. We have successfully delivered our products to customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond, using reliable international carriers like DHL and FedEx. We understand that our global community appreciates unique craftsmanship, and we are committed to making our wearable art accessible regardless of your geographic location. Please be aware that shipping times for international orders can vary significantly depending on the destination country's postal system.
When ordering internationally, please keep in mind that your package may be subject to import duties, taxes, and customs fees levied by your home country. These charges are not included in our shipping rates and are the sole responsibility of the customer upon delivery. We recommend checking with your local customs office to understand the potential costs before placing an order to avoid any surprises. We provide all the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth customs clearance process, but we cannot control delays caused by local authorities.
International shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on the weight of the package and the delivery address. We take extra precautions when packaging international orders, using reinforced boxes and additional padding to ensure the sunglasses survive the long journey across borders. Once your order is dispatched, you will receive a tracking number that allows you to monitor its progress from our studio to your doorstep. We are thrilled to see PixelVivid designs being worn in so many different corners of the globe, and we look forward to sending a pair your way.
Can you do specific branding or corporate logos on the glasses?
We frequently work with businesses and organizations to create custom eyewear for events, employee gifts, or promotional campaigns. Our artists can incorporate brand colors into the design of the frames while maintaining our signature hand-painted aesthetic. This provides a much more premium and memorable alternative to standard printed promotional merchandise. We can work with you to develop a design that aligns perfectly with your brand identity and leaves a lasting impression on your clients.
We usually do not directly replicate corporate logos due to trademark and copyright concerns, even if it is a copyright you may own. We can create custom patterns and color schemes that evoke the spirit of your brand. For example, if your company has a specific color palette, we can use those colors in a way that complements the overall design of the glasses. We can also incorporate subtle nods to your brand's identity through abstract patterns or motifs that are inspired by your logo or industry. This allows us to create a unique piece of wearable art that still feels connected to your corporate image.
For corporate orders, we offer a tiered pricing structure based on the quantity of sunglasses ordered and the complexity of the design. While our process is manual, we can handle batches of 20 to 100 pairs for special projects, though these require longer lead times than individual orders. We provide a physical prototype for approval before beginning the full production run to ensure the branding is executed exactly as envisioned. This collaborative process ensures that the final product meets your company's high standards for quality and presentation.
In addition to corporate colors, we can customize the internal arms of the sunglasses with names, dates, or specific messages. This is particularly popular for wedding parties, music festivals, or executive retreats where a personalized touch adds significant value. Because each pair is hand-painted, we can even provide slight variations within a batch so that every recipient feels they have received something truly unique. Contact our team through the website to discuss your project requirements and receive a customized quote for your branding needs.
Are PixelVivid sunglasses suitable for sports and high-activity use?
Our sunglasses are designed primarily as fashion accessories and lifestyle eyewear rather than high-performance sports equipment. While the frames and paint application are durable and the lenses offer full UV protection, the hand-painted finish is best suited for daily wear, social events, and light outdoor activities. For high-impact sports like mountain biking or competitive athletics, you may see more signs of wear sooner than on a pair used for casual activities. However, for activities like golfing, sailing, or walking, PixelVivid glasses perform exceptionally well while making you the most stylish person on the field.
The clear coat we apply is quite resilient, but repetitive friction from heavy sweating or constant adjustment during intense exercise could eventually affect the finish. If you do use them for active pursuits, it is especially important to rinse them with fresh water afterward to remove sweat and salt. We also recommend using a retention strap or 'croakies' if you are engaging in activities where the glasses might fall off, as a hard impact on pavement can damage both the frame and the art. Our goal is to provide art that lives with you, but we want you to be mindful of the limits of handcrafted finishes.
We offer certain frame styles that feature a more secure fit, such as those with rubberized nose pads or wrap-around designs, which are better suited for an active lifestyle. If you tell us that you plan to use your glasses for specific activities like fishing or hiking, we can recommend the best frame and lens combination for those needs. Ultimately, we want you to enjoy your PixelVivid sunglasses in whatever way makes you happy, provided you give them the care they deserve. They are built to be seen and enjoyed, not just kept on a shelf, so don't be afraid to take them out on your next adventure.
What happens if I lose my sunglasses or they are stolen?
We understand that losing a unique piece of wearable art can be a very disappointing experience, especially if it was a custom design. While we cannot offer free replacements for lost or stolen items, we do maintain a digital archive of all custom designs and signature collection purchases. This means that if you need to replace a lost pair, our artists can recreate the design for you as accurately as possible. Because each pair is hand-painted, there may be very minor differences, but the essence and layout of the original art will be preserved.
For returning customers who are looking to replace a lost or stolen pair, we often provide a 'Loyalty Replacement' discount as a gesture of appreciation for your support. We know that our customers form an emotional connection with their PixelVivid glasses, and we want to help you get back to feeling like yourself again. Please contact our support team with your original order number to discuss the options for a replacement. We will do our best to prioritize the recreation of your lost item so you don't have to be without your favorite accessory for long.
Depending on the style of frame, you may want to consider looking into personal property insurance or checking if your homeowner's/renter's insurance covers high-value accessories if you are concerned about theft. Since our glasses are easily identifiable and unique, they are less likely to be stolen for resale than generic designer brands, but it is always good to be cautious. We also suggest keeping a photo of your sunglasses and your order confirmation in a safe place for insurance purposes. Our commitment to our customers extends beyond the initial sale, and we are always here to help you navigate the process of getting a new pair.
What materials are the sunglasses frames made of?
The quality of the 'canvas' is just as important as the quality of the paint, which is why we use high-grade materials for all our frames. Most of our premium collection is creatively upcycled from popular brands such as Oakley, Ray Ban, Costa Del Mar, Maui Jom, and other popular manufacturers. These frames are crafted from a wide variety of proven, even proprietary materials known for their durability, flexibility, and deep color potential. These rames are hypoallergenic and can be adjusted by an optician to fit your face perfectly, making them a favorite in the high-end eyewear industry. This material provides an excellent surface for our primers and paints to bond with, ensuring a long-lasting finish.
For our custom PixelVivid branded frames, we often use acetate, high-grade polycarbonate or TR90 memory plastic. These materials are incredibly resilient and impact-resistant, making them ideal for individuals who lead an active life but still want to express their artistic side. Each material we use is selected for its ability to withstand the rigors of our painting process, including the sanding and curing stages that are necessary for a professional result.
We also feature a selection of carbon fiber of metal-accented frames that may combine acetate rims with stainless steel or titanium temples. These designs offer a sophisticated look and added structural integrity in key areas like the hinges and bridge. By using only the best materials, we ensure that your PixelVivid sunglasses feel as expensive and high-quality as they look, providing a luxury experience from the moment you put them on.
Is PixelVivid an eco-friendly brand?
Sustainability is a core value at PixelVivid, and we are constantly looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint while maintaining our high standards of quality. One of the primary ways we contribute to a greener planet is by focusing on the longevity of our products—creating 'slow fashion' that is meant to be kept for years rather than discarded after a season. By using creative upcycling techniques, we are bringing a second life to pre-owned frames. Our goal is to create art that lasts, reducing the cycle of waste in the fashion industry.
In our studio, we implement practices to minimize waste, such as using low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints and finishes wherever possible. We have also moved toward a made-to-order business model, which means we don't have large amounts of unsold inventory sitting in warehouses or eventually ending up in landfills. We want every pair of sunglasses we create to already have a home before the first drop of paint is applied. This intentional approach to production allows us to be much more efficient with our resources and focus on quality over mass-market quantity.
Our packaging is also designed with the environment in mind, using recyclable cardboard, packing amterial, and reusable microfiber pouches instead of excessive single-use plastics. We encourage our customers to keep their protective cases and use them for years, and our 'Paint My Frames' service is a direct effort to promote deeper creative upcycling and reuse. We believe that being a modern brand means taking responsibility for the lifecycle of our products. While we are not perfect, we are committed to continuous improvement and finding new ways to make our vibrant art as sustainable as it is beautiful.