Giclée Printing – Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about our fine art print service. Use the links below to jump to a topic:
Process & Materials
What paper types do you offer?
We keep a focused range that covers the main fine-art looks: smooth cotton rag, textured rag / cotton-enhanced papers, an economical watercolour-style option, modern photographic surfaces (pearl and smooth matte), plus matte canvas. This gives you classic museum-grade presentation through to contemporary photographic finishes.
What printers and inks do you use?
We print on Epson SureColor printers using UltraChrome 10-colour pigment inks. This platform delivers a very wide colour gamut (around 99% Pantone coverage), smooth tonal control and excellent archival stability on fine-art papers.
More about our printer & inks ›
What’s the difference between “Giclée printing” and “Fine Art printing”?
“Fine Art printing” is a broad term for printing artwork to a high standard. Giclée printing is a specific type of fine-art printing that uses archival pigment inks on archival fine-art papers (rag, cotton-enhanced, or museum-grade media). In short: all Giclée prints are Fine Art prints — but not all Fine Art prints are Giclée.
Why we use pigment Giclée technology ›
Can I see Giclée paper samples first?
Yes. We can send a small swatch selection, and local artists are welcome to handle papers in the studio by appointment. If you’re undecided, a quick thumbnail proof on two candidate papers is often the fastest way to choose.
How large can you print?
The shortest side of the print can be up to 600 mm. There is no fixed limit on length when we print on roll media — we’ll advise what’s practical for your image and chosen paper.
How long do Giclée prints last?
On museum-grade papers, modern UltraChrome pigment prints are commonly rated around 80–120 years under typical indoor display before noticeable shift. Framing behind UV glazing and avoiding direct sunlight extends life further.
Colour & Proofing
How do I ensure colour matching to my original work?
Provide the best capture you can (high-quality scan or camera file), and we’ll print through calibrated profiles. For critical work, order a proof first or visit our Shrewsbury studio to check colour in person. We can also correct minor keystone/distortion if you photographed the original yourself.
Preparing artwork files (resolution, formats, colour spaces) ›
Do you provide proof-strips or thumbnail proofs?
Yes. A thumbnail proof is a reduced-size print on your chosen paper so you can judge overall colour and feel. A proof-strip is a cropped section printed several times side-by-side with slightly different colour/contrast/vibrancy settings; you pick the version you prefer and we apply those settings to the whole image before final printing.
Proof-strips & thumbnail proofs explained ›
Can I proof-check my print in person?
Yes — by appointment in Shrewsbury. In-person proofing is ideal for comparing papers and confirming colour under controlled lighting before we run the full print.
Editions, Pricing & Delivery
How much do Giclée prints cost?
Prices depend on size, paper and quantity. Our online upload system provides instant pricing; bespoke or trade projects can be quoted individually.
Is there a minimum number of prints?
No minimums — we’re happy to print a single piece, a limited edition, or ongoing print-on-demand.
How long does it take to produce my print?
Typical turnaround is 3–5 working days from file approval or proof sign-off. We’ll confirm timing when you order.
Is my artwork secure when uploaded to your website?
Yes — files are stored on protected UK-based servers and used only to produce your prints. We don’t share or reuse your images without permission. After printing, we can archive for easy re-orders or delete on request.
Can you provide certification of the quality of materials used?
Yes. We can supply a Certificate of Authenticity confirming archival pigment inks and fine-art paper stock — useful for collectors and limited editions.
How do I manage limited editions?
We keep colour and sizing consistent across your edition and can supply Certificates of Authenticity and edition records if needed. Traditionally the artist signs and numbers each print.
What happens if prints are damaged in transit?
If anything arrives damaged, contact us straight away. We’ll replace affected prints once we receive photos of the damage or the returned item.
Digitising & Local Services
Can you produce images from 35mm slides or transparencies?
Yes — we offer high-resolution scanning of slides, negatives and transparencies. We can print directly from the scans or supply the files for your archive.
I want to photograph my original artwork to produce a print — can you help?
Yes. We can photograph or scan your artwork, or advise you on lighting, resolution and file formats if you prefer to capture it yourself. If the image ends up slightly off-square or keystoned, we can usually correct/deskew it.
Preparing artwork files (quick guide) ›
Local service — Shrewsbury & West Midlands
If you’re within travelling distance of Shrewsbury, we offer a more personal service by appointment: paper selection, in-person proof viewing and pre-print consultation. This is particularly helpful for colour-critical work.
Didn’t find your question? Please contact us — we’ll answer directly and add common questions here to help other artists.