Understanding Art Prints: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 7 min read

Art prints, those high-quality reproductions of original artworks, have surged in popularity recently. If you've ever wondered "what is an art print?" or pondered how to best care for your art prints, you're not alone. This guide is your comprehensive roadmap to understanding everything about art prints, diving into the types, brands, buying tips, caring instructions, and display methods. Let's embark on this colorful journey together.

1. Know Your Art Prints

Before you venture into the world of art prints, it's important to familiarize yourself with what they are, the various types that exist, and how they're made. This knowledge will enrich your appreciation for these crafted works and help you make informed decisions when purchasing.

What are Art Prints?

Art prints are high-quality reproductions of original artworks. Unlike posters, which are often printed on thin, low-quality paper, art prints use premium grade paper or canvas and specialized inkjet printers. These reproductions preserve the color and detail of the original, making them a popular choice for those who love art but may not have the budget for an original piece. So, the next time someone asks you "what is an art print?", you can confidently explain that it's a high-quality reproduction of original artwork.

Different Types of Art Prints

Art prints come in various types, each with its unique features and methods of production. Here are a few common ones:

Limited Edition Prints: These are prints of an original artwork that are produced in limited quantities. Once the edition runs out, no more prints are made, making each print a collectible item.
Open Edition Prints: Unlike limited edition prints, open edition prints are not numbered and can be reproduced indefinitely.
Giclee Prints: Giclee (pronounced 'zhee-clay') prints are made using high-resolution digital scans and high-quality inkjet printers, resulting in incredibly detailed and color-accurate prints.

How Art Prints Are Made?

The process of creating an art print begins with a high-resolution digital scan of the original artwork. This digital image is then printed onto premium paper or canvas using specialized inkjet printers, creating a high-quality reproduction of the original. The inks used in these printers are archival-quality, ensuring that the colors remain vibrant and fade-resistant for many years. Now that you understand "what is an art print" and how it's made, you're ready to explore different art print brands.

2. Explore Art Print Brands

Now that you're familiar with what an art print is and how it's made, it's time to delve into the world of art print brands. Whether you're looking for established favorites or eager to discover new, emerging talents, there's a brand out there for you.

Popular Art Print Brands

When it comes to art prints, there are a few brands that have stood the test of time and are deeply loved by art enthusiasts. Here are a couple you may want to explore:

Art.com: A well-known brand that offers a wide variety of prints, from classic artworks to contemporary pieces.
Society6: Known for its collaboration with independent artists, Society6 offers unique and diverse art prints.

Emerging Art Print Brands

If you're eager to discover fresh talent and support emerging artists, consider these up-and-coming art print brands:

Minted: A marketplace for independent artists, Minted is a great place to find unique and limited edition art prints.
INPRNT: A platform that promotes and supports the work of the global artist community. Their collection is eclectic and growing.

Whether you choose a popular brand or opt for an emerging one, remember that the most important thing is that the art print speaks to you. Now that you are familiar with what an art print is and the brands to watch out for, we can move on to the practical aspect of buying art prints.

3. Buy Art Prints Effectively

Having a basic understanding of what an art print is and knowing a few popular and emerging brands is a good start. Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of actually buying the art prints. This section will guide you through where to buy, how to choose, and tips for buying art prints.

Where to Buy Art Prints

Knowing where to buy art prints can make your search a lot easier. Here are a few places to start:

Online Marketplaces: Websites like Art.com, Minted, and Society6 are great starting points. They offer a broad range of art prints from different artists worldwide.
Art Galleries: For those who prefer a physical shopping experience, local art galleries often carry a selection of art prints.
Art Fairs: Art fairs are not just for original works. Many artists also sell prints of their work at these events.

How to Choose Art Prints

Choosing an art print that suits you can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are a few things to consider:

Personal Preference: Art is subjective. Choose something that speaks to you personally.
Space and Size: Consider where you'll hang the print. Make sure the size and style complement your space.
Price: Art prints can vary greatly in price. Set a budget and stick to it.

Tips for Buying Art Prints

Finally, here are some tips to ensure a smooth art print buying experience:

Research the Artist: Knowing a bit about the artist can add depth to your appreciation of the print.
Understand the Print: Is it a limited edition? Is it signed by the artist? These factors can affect the value of the print.
Ask Questions: Don't be shy—whether you're buying online or in-person, don't hesitate to ask questions about the print.

Buying an art print isn't just a purchase—it's an investment in your personal space and aesthetic. Next, we'll look at how to care for your art prints to ensure they stand the test of time.

4. Care for Your Art Prints

You've bought your art print—congratulations! Now, it's critical to take care of your investment. This section will guide you on handling, storing, and maintaining your art prints.

How to Handle Art Prints

Handling an art print requires a bit of finesse. Let's look at some tips:

Use Clean Hands: Ensure your hands are clean and dry before you handle your print. Oils and dirt can damage the print over time.
Hold the Edges: Try to hold your print by the edges to minimize contact with the image area.
Use Gloves: For extra protection, use cotton gloves. This prevents oils or moisture from your hands from touching the print.

How to Store Art Prints

If you're not immediately hanging your print, storing it correctly is key. Here's how:

Use a Protective Sleeve: A protective sleeve can shield your art print from dust and damage.
Store Flat: When possible, store your print flat to prevent curling or bending.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can fade your print over time, so store it in a dark, cool place.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Caring for your art print also involves regular cleaning and maintenance. Here are some ideas:

Use a Soft Brush: To clean your print, use a soft, dry brush to gently remove dust.
Avoid Chemicals: Steer clear of cleaning chemicals, as they can harm the print.
Check Regularly: Regularly check your print for any signs of damage or fading.

Proper care for your prints can extend their life and maintain their beauty. Up next, let's explore how to display your art prints effectively.

5. Display Your Art Prints

Now that your art print is safe and sound, it's time to showcase it. This section will guide you on framing, hanging, and arranging your art prints in your space.

Framing Your Art Prints

Framing is more than just a decorative touch—it's a vital part of preserving and presenting your art print.

Use Acid-Free Materials: Acid-free matting and backing will protect your print from yellowing or deteriorating over time.
Choose UV-Resistant Glass: This type of glass can protect the print from damaging ultraviolet rays.
Match Your Decor: Your frame should match your decor, but remember, it should also compliment the print itself.

Hanging Your Art Prints

Hanging an art print isn't as simple as hammering a nail into the wall. Here's how to do it right:

Choose the Right Spot: Avoid areas with direct sunlight or high humidity. These conditions can damage your print over time.
Use the Right Hardware: Use the appropriate hanging hardware to ensure your print stays securely on the wall.
Consider Eye Level: As a rule of thumb, the middle of the print should be at eye level.

Arranging Art Prints in Your Space

So, how do you arrange multiple art prints for the best visual impact? Here are some tips:

Consider the Layout: Plan out your arrangement before you start hanging. This might involve measuring spaces and marking spots on your wall.
Create Balance: Try to balance colors, sizes, and themes among your prints to create a harmonious display.
Group by Theme or Style: Grouping prints that share a common theme or style can create an attractive focal point.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to displaying art prints—it's all about what works best for you and your space. And with that, you're now fully equipped to enjoy your art prints to the fullest.

If you're interested in learning more about art prints and how to bring your handmade illustrations to the digital world, check out the workshop 'Digitising Handmade Illustrations' by Jola Pictures. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and techniques to help you transition from traditional art to digital formats, allowing you to create stunning art prints.