Making Offset Lithographic Prints Through a Print Company
If youre an artist looking to reproduce your original artwork, offset lithographic printing through a specialist printing company may be the way to go. This method involves using a zinc-coated plate that is photo-etched with the artists image. Ink is then applied to the plate and pressed against the paper to create the final print.
While offset litho printing may be an old school method, it still has its advantages. For one, its a cost-effective way to produce prints in bulk, with the cheapest unit price per print. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. For instance, to gain savings, you must invest heavily upfront. Additionally, finding a reliable professional printer can be a challenge, and youll need dry storage space for thousands of prints.
To find a good printing company, start by looking in art magazines or online directories. Look for companies that are members of a guild or trading body, as this should guarantee a professional service. Its also important to choose a company that is located near you, as this will make it easier to communicate and resolve any issues that may arise.
When choosing a printing company, dont be swayed by the lowest quote. Remember that not all printers are created equal, and its important to choose a company that specializes in fine art printing. This may mean working with a smaller, two-man print shop that has highly skilled tradesmen who do all the printing themselves.
In summary, offset lithographic printing through a print company can be a cost-effective way to produce high-quality prints of your artwork. However, its important to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages, and to choose a reputable and specialized printing company that is located near you.
How to Find the Best Printing Company for Your Art
Start with Art Magazines
One of the best places to start your search for a good printing company is in art magazines. Look for small ads that offer printing services for artists. However, make sure to use only reputable companies that are members of a guild or a trading body. This should guarantee a professional service.
Do Your Research
Once you have a list of potential printing companies, do your research. Google their sites and take a look at them and their competitors. Look for a company that is nearest to where you live. In our experience, the closer you live or work to your print shop, the better it is for everyone. If there is a glitch or a question to be answered, it’s best to be there in person. It’s the easiest way to get a good job done.
Dont Be Suckered into Accepting the Lowest Quote
Printers are not all made equal. For artists, general printers are next to useless. Don’t be suckered into accepting the lowest quote. Instead, look for a company that offers a fair price for a high-quality service.
Consider a Two-Man Printshop
If you’re a small business, consider finding a two-man printshop. Both highly skilled tradesmen who do all the printing themselves. This worked for us because as a small business, our custom mattered. We were able to chat and form a lasting relationship. All based on a handshake, integrity, and customer service.
What is a Giclée Print?
Giclée prints (from French and pronounced zhee-clay) are digital inkjet prints made using long-lasting pigment-based inks and reproduced on acid-free, cotton rag paper. They are generally regarded as the best option for artists who want to produce high-quality prints of their work.
Conclusion
Finding the right printing company for your art can be a daunting task, but it’s worth taking the time to do your research and find a company that offers a high-quality service at a fair price. Remember to look for a company that is reputable, nearest to where you live, and offers a fair price for their services. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make sure you understand the process before you commit to anything. With the right printing company, you can produce beautiful prints of your art that will last a lifetime.
Understanding Giclée Prints: The Ultimate Guide
What are Giclée Prints?
Giclée prints are high-quality digital inkjet prints that use long-lasting pigment-based inks on acid-free, cotton rag paper. These prints are considered the industry standard for fine art reproductions due to their exceptional quality and longevity. In contrast, dye-based inkjet printers are often considered inferior.
How Long Do Giclée Prints Last?
The leading manufacturers, Epson and Canon, claim that their pigment inks are lightfast for a lifetime of about 100 years. However, there is no definitive industry standard to measure and test the longevity of inks. The deterioration rate of prints varies according to local conditions and the chosen paper or substrate.
If you desire permanence, use pigment inks. If color range and quality are more important, dye-based inks still out-perform pigment inks. Its a trade-off. For high-quality prints, use pigment inks, and for ephemera such as greeting cards and promotional materials, use dye-based inks.
The Advantages of Printing Giclée Art Prints Through a Company
Low risk – great for short-run editions with high price points,
Consistent quality of the print,
Re-order prints at will, and as many or as few as you like,
Print multiple sizes at no extra setup costs,
Prints can be very big (large format inkjet printer).
The Disadvantages of Printing Giclée Art Prints Through a Company
High costs per print range from very high to extortionate,
Printers are only as good as the maintenance of the equipment they use,
Finding a good and reliable commercial printing company is hard,
The prints are easily scratched and marked.
To get the most reliable results, only use inks and high-quality paper known to have been tested together, such as the manufacturers own product range. With this guide, you can now make informed decisions about printing your art as giclée prints.
How Long Do Giclee Prints Last?
The Importance of Ink Type
When it comes to the longevity of your art prints, the type of ink you use is crucial. Pigment inks are known for their permanence and are claimed by leading manufacturers, such as Epson and Canon, to be lightfast for a lifetime of about 100 years. Dye-based inks, on the other hand, are not as long-lasting but offer a wider color range and better quality.
Factors Affecting Print Longevity
Its important to note that prints will deteriorate at different rates depending on the local conditions and the paper or substrate used. While there is no definitive industry standard for measuring and testing ink longevity, using pigment inks is the best way to ensure permanence.
Printing with a Company vs. at Home
When it comes to printing giclee art prints, you have the option of using a commercial printing company or doing it yourself at home. While printing with a company offers consistent quality and the ability to print large sizes, it can be costly and finding a reliable company can be difficult. On the other hand, home printing gives you control over the process but requires a significant investment in equipment and time.
The Bottom Line
To ensure the longevity of your art prints, use pigment inks and high-quality paper that have been tested together. Whether you choose to print with a company or at home, make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. With the right approach, you can create beautiful, long-lasting prints of your art that will be enjoyed for years to come.
Making Art Prints at Home With Your Own Giclee Printer
Is Home Printing Right for You?
If youre a professional artist looking to have more control over your prints, home printing might be a practical option for you. While it can be a hands-on process that takes time away from creating art, it can also provide a variety of tasks to prevent creative stagnation.
Dye vs Pigment Based Printing Inks – What’s the Difference?
When it comes to printing inks, there are two major things to consider: dye vs pigment based inks. Dye inks have a shorter lifespan and are not considered archival, making them suitable for cheap prints and ephemera. Pigment inks, on the other hand, are archival and designed to last a lifetime, making them ideal for fine art reproductions being sold at a premium. Giclee prints are pigment ink-based prints.
The Advantages of Home Dye-Based Printers
If youre considering a home dye-based printer, there are several advantages to keep in mind. The inks are not as expensive, resulting in a lower cost per print. The initial cost of the printer is also usually cheaper. Colors tend to be more vibrant, and print speeds are typically faster. Disposable prints like greeting cards are viable, and quality third-party inks and papers are widely available. You can also afford to run more test prints.
The Disadvantages of Home Dye-Based Printers
While there are advantages to home dye-based printers, there are also some disadvantages to consider. The lifespan of the inks is shorter, and they may fade over time. Theyre generally not suitable for premium-priced art prints and may not be as good for black and white printing. Initial setup can be a learning curve, and you cant print from a roll. Youll also need space to use the printer.
Cost Considerations
It can be challenging to find running cost information about printers, but the unit costs for printing dye-based digital prints will be pennies. While the price of the printer itself may not be as important, its crucial to know how much it costs to make a Giclee print.
In conclusion, home printing is a practical option for professional artists looking for more control over their prints. While there are advantages and disadvantages to consider, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of prints youre looking to create.
When it comes to printing your art, choosing the right ink is crucial. Dye and pigment-based inks are the two main options available, and they differ significantly in terms of quality and longevity.
So, whats the difference between dye and pigment-based inks?
Dye-based inks are cheaper and more commonly used for everyday printing needs. They produce vibrant colors and are suitable for disposable prints like greeting cards. However, they have a shorter lifespan and are not considered archival. Over time, the colors may fade, making them unsuitable for premium-priced art prints.
Pigment-based inks, on the other hand, are designed to last a lifetime. They are archival and produce high-quality, long-lasting prints. Giclee prints, which are commonly used for fine art reproductions, are pigment ink-based prints. While they are more expensive than dye-based inks, they are worth the investment for artists looking to sell their work at a premium.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Home Dye-Based Printers
If youre looking to print your art at home, a dye-based printer may be a more affordable option. The inks are cheaper, and the cost per print is low. Additionally, the colors are more vibrant, and print speeds are usually faster. Disposable prints like greeting cards are also viable with dye-based inks.
However, there are some downsides to using a dye-based printer. The lifespan of the inks is shorter, and the colors may fade over time. They are generally not as good for black and white printing, and the initial setup can be a learning curve. Additionally, you cant print from a roll, and you need space to use it.
Advantages of Giclee Art Printing at Home
If youre looking to produce high-quality, long-lasting prints, a pigment-based printer is the way to go. While they are more expensive, they are worth the investment for artists looking to sell their work at a premium. With a pigment-based printer, you can keep control of everything and print the type of art you want, when you want. Desktop printers (up to A3+) are affordable, and less storage space is needed. You can also make prints of different sizes and on different products.
Conclusion
When it comes to printing your art, choosing the right ink is crucial. While dye-based inks may be more affordable, they are not suitable for premium-priced art prints. Pigment-based inks, on the other hand, produce high-quality, long-lasting prints that are worth the investment. Consider your printing needs and budget before making a decision.
Print-on-Demand Dropshipping
Are you an artist looking to make prints of your artwork but dont want to deal with the hassle of printing and shipping yourself? Look no further than print-on-demand dropshipping.
Print-on-demand dropshipping is when a third party fulfills and dispatches an order on your behalf. You act as the merchant, or middleman, and add your markup above the base price. This allows you to focus on creating your art while the printing and shipping is taken care of for you.
To get started, simply upload high-resolution digital files of your artwork to a print-on-demand platform and add them to their products. Some companies, such as Printful.com, even integrate with your own website and Etsy shop for more control.
While there are many print-on-demand options available, its important to choose a company with high standards and good integration options. In addition to Printful, other recommended options include Zazzle and Printify.
However, its important to note that most major print-on-demand companies require you to sell via their own marketplace platforms, which limits your access to customers. For repeat trade and online sales, its best to set up your own online art store for a passive income.
If you do choose to sell through a print-on-demand marketplace, some popular options include Redbubble, Society6, Fine Art America, and CafePress. And for those interested in sustainable options, Teemill is a new print-on-demand clothing company that uses a circular economy for fashion and sustainable packaging.
No matter which print-on-demand option you choose, remember to always prioritize high-quality prints and good customer service. With print-on-demand dropshipping, you can focus on creating your art while the printing and shipping is taken care of for you.
Making Hi-Res Scans of Your Artwork For Printing
Why High-Quality Scans Are Critical
If you want to make prints of your artwork, you need to get the best possible scan of your original work. This is crucial because the quality of the scan will directly impact the quality of the print. So, how do you get a high-quality scan? There are several options to consider.
The 4 Scanning Alternatives
1. Drum Scanner
A drum scanner is the best option for super hi-res results that can be enlarged. However, its only suitable for flexible materials like paper. Your artwork is attached to a drum that rotates at high speed and is scanned in super hi-res detail. This type of scanning will give you excellent results if you wish to enlarge the whole or parts of the image. But, one word of caution, your original paintings need to be flexible because they will be spinning at about 2000 rpm!
2. Professional Flatbed Scanner
The best flatbed scanners give superb results and are probably the best option for most artists. You can scan images up to A3 (420 x 297mm /11.69 x 16.53 inches) without a problem, and the professional processing cuts out all the headaches.
3. Professional Photography Service
For large or bulky artwork, your best choice is to get it professionally photographed. You can do it yourself if you have a good digital camera and a space to use a studio, but honestly, its more hassle than its worth. A professional photography service will give you the best results.
4. DIY Home Scanning
If you are keen to keep things in-house and scan your artwork yourself, a stand-alone high-end scanner may be a practical choice. However, you will need some post-scanning processing skills (usually Adobe Photoshop), and there is more to it than pressing the scan button. The results can be impressive, but size is the problem. If your artwork is no larger than A4 (8.27 x 11.69 inches / 21 x 29.7cm), youre all set. If your art is larger, however, youll have to stitch your scans together with software. We recommend the Epson v600 scanner if you want to check it out.
Remember, the quality of your scan is critical to the quality of your print. Choose the scanning option that best suits your artwork and budget, and always aim for the highest quality possible.
Approaching a Printing Company: Tips for Artists
Choosing the Right Printer
As an artist, finding the right printer to produce high-quality prints of your artwork can be a daunting task. Its important to do your research, ask for recommendations, and read reviews before making a decision. Once youve narrowed down your options, its time to approach the printer.
Handing Over Your Artwork
When you arrive at the printing company, its crucial to ensure that your artwork is handled with care. Unfortunately, not all employees have the same level of respect for your work as you do. To prevent damage, consider taking the following precautions:
- Attach a cardboard backing to your artwork with acid-free, low-tack, masking tape to prevent thumb buckles, kinks, and creases.
- Insert your original into a clear plastic sleeve to prevent accidental fingerprints, splashes, and smudges.
- Write clear instructions on how to handle the artwork and its value.
- Carry your work in a portfolio case to ensure its safety.
Choosing the Right Paper
The type of paper you choose can greatly affect the final outcome of your artwork. Some papers absorb ink, resulting in a softer image, while others are coated, producing a crisper image. Consider the original artwork and choose a paper that complements it. For example, if youre scanning a watercolor, it makes sense to choose a watercolor paper.
Conclusion
Approaching a printing company as an artist can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation and precautions, you can ensure that your artwork is handled with care and produced on the right paper. Remember to choose a reputable printer, take steps to prevent damage, and select the right paper to showcase your artwork in the best possible way.
Getting The Printing Job Done
Picking Up Your Prints
After accepting the quote and approving the proof, its time to pick up your prints. If your printing company is local, its best to take your original home as soon as they have finished with it. Dont trust them to look after it properly. Better to play it safe.
Giclee Prints
If you have ordered giclee prints, there will be only a few prints to examine. You can collect them yourself and bring the proof to see that they match. Giclee prints are the most reliable and they are unlikely to go wrong, but even so, there are some things to look out for. Check for ink streaks, ink spots, paper blemishes, finger marks, and scratches. Giclee prints are easily damaged, so make sure you treat them as kindly as an original. Keep your hands off the surface.
Offset-Litho’ Prints
If youve ordered offset litho prints, you should be more diligent. There will be too many prints to check each one, and your printer will always put the best images at the top of the pile. Check the rest at random. Go through the pile and select a few. There will be a slight variation, but this should be within the 10% leeway. You will have a few rejects, its inevitable when you order a large batch, but dont get too worked up about that. Factor it in.
Important: My current printer always prints another 10% beyond my original order to cover for any defective prints that got through.
Final Thoughts
Printing art can be a minefield, but if you get it right, it can be your springboard to success. For us independent artists, the only way to capitalize on our art is to make prints of it. However, its crucial to check your prints thoroughly before signing them off. I learned about the importance of checking my prints the hard way. When I first started out, I put my trust in everyone to have my best interests at heart, but that was naive. Dont make the same mistake. Take the time to examine your prints and ensure they meet your standards.
Printing your art can be a daunting task, but its a necessary step to take if you want to turn your passion into a profitable business. As an independent artist, reproducing your artwork through prints is the key to scaling up and reaching a wider audience. However, the process can be tricky, and mistakes can be costly. Thats why its important to have a complete printing guide to help you navigate the pitfalls and obstacles that come with the territory.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
If youre serious about selling prints of your art, you need to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset. This means being prepared to face challenges and finding ways to overcome them. Remember, obstacles are not defeats, but opportunities to learn and grow. With the right mindset, you can turn setbacks into success.
Essential Tools
To get started with printing your art, youll need a few essential tools. These include Pentel Mechanical Pencils 0.3mm, Derwent Graphic Drawing Pencils, Daler-Rowney Heavyweight Cartridge Paper, Jakar Battery Eraser, Tombo Mono Eraser Pen, Faber Castell Putty Eraser, Blu Tack, and a French Box Easel. You can find these supplies on Amazon, or you can check out ARTEZA art supplies or BLICK for alternatives.
A Complete Guide
If youre feeling overwhelmed by the printing process, dont worry. With a complete printing guide, you can learn everything you need to know. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process, from choosing the right paper and ink to setting up your printer and creating digital files. Youll also learn how to market and sell your prints online and in-person.
Additional Resources
If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other resources for artists. We have articles on topics like copying art and selling paintings of paintings, limited edition prints, social media for artists, and more. We also have a list of 25 platforms where you can sell your art online. With the right tools and resources, you can turn your art into a successful business.
Making Giclée Prints Using a Print Company
Introduction
As an artist, you want to showcase your work to the world, and one of the best ways to do that is by making prints of your art. While you can print your art at home, it can be time-consuming and may not produce the best quality prints. Thats where print companies come in. They can produce high-quality prints of your art, one at a time, to the highest standards. In this article, we will discuss how to make Giclée prints using a print company.
What is a Giclée Print?
Giclée prints (from French and pronounced zhee-clay) are digital inkjet prints made using long-lasting pigment-based inks and reproduced on acid-free, cotton rag paper. They are generally regarded as the best quality prints and have become the industry norm for high-quality fine art reproductions. Dye-based inkjet printers are considered inferior at times. The leading manufacturers, Epson and Canon both claim their pigment inks are lightfast for a lifetime (about 100 years).
The Advantages of Printing Giclée Art Prints Through a Company
There are several advantages to printing Giclée art prints through a company, including:
Low Risk
Printing through a company is great for short-run editions with high price points. It allows you to test the market without investing too much money upfront.
Consistent Quality
When you print through a company, you can expect consistent quality of the print. The company has the necessary equipment and expertise to produce high-quality prints every time.
Re-Order Prints at Will
If you need to re-order prints, you can do so at will, and as many or as few as you like. This allows you to keep your inventory up-to-date without having to worry about running out of prints.
Print Multiple Sizes
Printing through a company allows you to print multiple sizes at no extra setup costs. This gives you the flexibility to offer your art in different sizes to suit your customers needs.
Prints Can Be Very Big
Large format inkjet printers can produce prints that are very big, allowing you to showcase your art in a grand way.
Conclusion
Printing your art through a company is a great way to produce high-quality prints of your art without having to invest in expensive equipment or spend hours printing at home. Giclée prints are the industry norm for high-quality fine art reproductions, and printing through a company ensures consistent quality every time. So, if youre an artist looking to showcase your work to the world, consider making prints of your art using a print company.
