Fine Art Printing

FAQ

What makes a print “fine art”?

The quality of the paper, the type of ink and the printing process. Giclee (gee-clay) is the term for one process that yields the best results.

 

What does giclee mean?

In traditional inkjet style printing, the ink is absorbed into the paper making a smooth surface. Giclee starts with many more colors than inkjet and is applied by spray onto the paper. This leaves the image slightly raised above the paper which creates darker blacks and brighter colors. The fiber of the paper is below the ink, not intermixed with it.

 

Is giclee printing only for prints on paper?

The giclee printing process can also be done on canvas. It is then stretched and mounted on a wood frame.

Ballerina canvas print in black and gray, shown at an angle with the wrapped edge visible.

Ballerina

 

What does it mean to be printed on acrylic glass?

A 1/8” crystal clear piece of acrylic is used for these prints. The printing is on the back of the acrylic resulting in a clear protective layer on top of the image. The effect is a clean, modern, streamlined look. Unlike glass, acrylic is light weight and scratch resistant making the piece also durable.

 

What do the acrylic glass prints look like?

There are 2 styles of acrylic prints.

1. A “floating” frame

A “floating” frame has a border of clear acrylic surrounding the image before a framed edge. The surface it is hanging on can be seen between the image and the frame.

Wind in Pink: magenta portrait with windswept hair, surrounded by a clear acrylic border inside a white floating frame.

Wind in Pink

2. Edge-to-edge acrylic

The other style has the image printed edge to edge and hangs without a frame. A keyhole hanger holds the print 1/2” off the wall and is entirely concealed.

Close-up of the rectangular mounting plate and keyhole slot on the back of an acrylic print.

 

What else can I get a print on?

Another unique style is a print on metal. Like the acrylic print, the metal print is ready to hang and creates 1/2” space between it and the wall.

Counterbalance metal print of a purple and white ballet dancer on a dark background, shown at an angle.

Counterbalance

 

Why do I offer prints that are framed without glass?

I discovered that I could better enjoy the texture of the paper and the stark darkness of the black ink without glass covering the print.

Blinded: black-and-white portrait of a woman with one arm across her eyes, displayed in a black frame.

Blinded

 

How long does it take to receive my order?

Your order has not been created yet, it will be made just for you in the size and format you have chosen. 

For unframed items, please allow approximately 2–3 weeks for processing, production, and delivery. Holiday demand may cause additional delays.

Framing is done by hand, one piece at a time. It can take up to 5 extra business days. Both formats look amazing and will be at home in your art collection.