What is a Giclée?

Giclée (zhee-clay) n. 1. A method of fine art and photographic printmaking. 2. Most often associated with reproductions, a giclée is a print or multiple copy of an original work of art that was created by conventional means (painting, drawing, etc.) and then reproduced digitally via inkjet printing methods. In the case of digitally created artwork or photographs printed in this manner, each print can be considered an original, since nothing was copied to create the image. What distinguishes a giclée from other inkjet prints is that it must be printed using pigmented inks and onto museum-quality, archival fine art paper or canvas.

Why should I reproduce my artwork as giclées?

Print-on-demand has forever changed how fine art print reproductions are created and marketed.

• Avoid the costs associated with producing a large inventory. You don't pay for prints until you have orders.
• Creates multiple sales from your originals that faithfully represent your work.
• A range of sizes, price and media choices can be offered to your collectors and are easily and affordably fulfilled.

What should I look for when choosing a giclée printmaker?

Finding the right printer is more important than finding the closest printer.

• When shopping for a giclée printmaker, look for those that do their own digital capture and printing. You may submit digital photos or transparencies of your work but the quality of your final print may not be satisfactory.
• Make sure that your printer is only using pigmented inks and printing on museum-quality, archival papers and canvas.
• Your printer should strive to establish a cooperative, working collaboration with you, understanding your needs and goals, and able to easily communicate with you in "non-technical" language

Will my giclées look exactly like my originals?

• Every giclée printer attempts to accurately match your work, but depending on equipment, types of inks, papers and skill, it is not always possible to get 100% accuracy. This is often the case when attempting to reproduce one media with another, such as printing a copy of an oil painting with water-based, pigmented inks.
• The color range of the pigmented inks used in giclée printmaking is not always equal to the colors achievable with solid, pigmented oil or acrylic paints.
• Whenever possible, get actual printed proof copies of your work, run on the canvas and/or paper type you intend to use. Don't be "fooled" by companies who refuse to provide this option.

What is your minimum order requirement?

• You may order only one print at a time if you wish.
• Quantity discounts begin at five or more of the same image and size.
• We have a volume program for resellers; please call for details.

How long does it take?

Normal turnaround for print orders is 24-72 hours. Digital capture and proofing usually takes 3-5 days. We will always try to accommodate rush orders or special needs; there is NEVER any rush fees. We don't believe in penalizing a client when they have an immediate order to fill or last minute gallery show.

Do you offer any marketing assistance?

• We believe the better you do, the better we do! Artists with four or more images on file with us may display their work for sale on our “Featured Artists” page. We do not charge for this nor take any fee other than the cost to produce the work. We can drop ship directly to your clients if desired.
• We can produce low cost flyers, business cards, postcards and more to aid your marketing efforts. Since we already have your artwork on file, there is little or no design cost to prepare these materials.

Why choose Digital Arts Studio?

• Nationally recognized in Art World News, Digital Graphics, and Photo Marketing Association trade journals.
• Selected to be included in Adobe's Authorized Print Provider Network
• Dedicated and knowledgeable professionals to advise and guide you towards success
• On-site digital capture of your original art - 150+ Megapixels!
• One flat fee includes scan, proofing, and back up files
• Over a dozen fine art paper and canvas options; fabrics and aluminum available.
• Twelve color, all pigmented inks, printing up to 60 inches wide
• One stop shop for order fulfillment, custom frames, mats, mounting and marketing materials
• Fast turnaround, all work guaranteed
• All major credit cards accepted.