About / FAQ
I am a freelance artist. I have studied art and design in both the Toronto and Hamilton ON area. My paintings have been in art shows in local museums and art galleries.
I have been cross stitching actively since the early 1980s, with my first commissioned design being in 1989 of a race car. It was created on paper prior to the use of computers. Hand drawn from the client's photograph.
All charts are created by Brenda Martin and all images are either the stitched version of the charts or a computer generated mock up of what the stitched image will look like once complete. Whenever possible, a "work in progress" pic will be added so that you have every opportunity to see how the finsihed result will look. I do not and never have posted any photographs, or original artwork as "what my chart will look like". All designs are exclusive to "From the Portfolio of Brenda Martin" and you will never see any of my charts posted anywhere else.
My site includes a variety of different designs (Full coverage, Petite designs, Sampling designs and Circolare Designs ~ with more to come) and there should be something for the beginner stitcher as well as the advanced.
Q. I have purchased a chart but it does load into my app
A. When this happens, it is up to the developer or seller of the APP to make his/her product perform as to their specifications. If you are using a BETA state product, you may be experiencing difficulties due to the APP not being fully developed. You may have to open it in a more stable platform.
Q. I wish to return my chart as I am not happy with it
A. Once you have purchased the chart, and it is sent to you, because of the nature of the product (digital or paper copy), there are no refunds. Period.
Q. I changed my mind and wish to cancel my order. Can I have a refund or exchange?
A. My policy is "ALL SALES FINAL ~ no refunds or exchanges" I may not receive or see the message of your change of heart before sending out your chart. Please be sure that you have the chart that you want BEFORE making your purchase to avoid disappointment.
Q. I wish to have a paper copy sent. Is that possible ?
A. It is but considering the cost of sending the chart with a tracker number on it, it may be cheaper to purchase the digital copy and take it to a copy center or library to print.
Q. I lost my copy of my chart. Can I get another?
A. What you do with your chart after purchase is up to you, as long as it doesn't break any copyright laws. However, you will have to purchase another copy if you require an additional copy.
Q. I bought my chart but nothing. Is it an instant download?
A. No. Once the chart has been paid for, a chart will be emailed to the email address on your paypal account within 48 hours.
Q. What do I receive with my purchase?
A. You will receive a pdf or saga version of the chart only. The chart will include the working chart and colour key, a cover page, a page with fabric size of various counts and chart dimensions and a thread usuage page for full coverage designs. Petite and Sampling Designs will have the chart and colour key (colour key may sometimes be a separate file) and cover page.
Q. Are your charts copyrighted?
A. Yes, all my charts are copyright protected in accordance to the Canadian and International copyright laws. All my designs are exclusive to myself and if you find any of my charts for sale elsewhere, please contact me. I have, in the past, had my stolen designs removed from another's site/social media due to copyright violations.
Q. Why are your charts more expensive ?
A. My charts are exclusive and original designs. As such, one should expect to pay a bit more. However, My charts are in Canadian Funds and when factoring the exchange rates and compare to other Full Coverage charts from other countries, the price is very close and sometimes even cheaper than other designers. Also, my charts are designed to be a bit smaller, yet stitched on a count fabric that is easier on the eyes. Once you factor in the cost of fabric and floss, you will find my charts to be far less expensive than those of other designers. (larger charts use larger and sometimes more expensive pieces of fabric and will take more thread to create. Also framing can cost a small fortune)
Q. I cannot get the paypal button to come up/work. How can I pay for my chart
A. If for any reason you cannot get the paypal buttons to work, contact me and request an invoice. Please include your email address as well as the name of the chart(s) and format (.pdf or saga) you wish to purchase. An invoice will be emailed so that you can pay from that. Once payment is received, your chart(s) will be emailed to you within 48 hours.
Q. I wish to make multiple purchases at this time. How do I do that ?
A. If you wish to make multiple purchases, you can either do them individually, or you can ask for an invoice. Please include your email address as well as the name of the chart(s) and format (.pdf or saga) you wish to purchase. An invoice will be emailed so that you can pay from that. Once payment is received, your chart(s) will be emailed to you within 48 hours.