Canvas v Paper Prints: Which Is Best For Giclée Art Prints?
Learn how to choose between cotton canvas and paper for your Giclée art prints. Artist Kerwin Blackburn examines the unique characteristics of each.
In the vibrant worlds of art and art reproduction, Giclée printing stands as a pivotal, widespread printing method. Giclée printing offers artists and art enthusiasts an unparalleled way to replicate original artworks and showcase the intricate details of their favourite pieces in print reproductions. While this is the go-to printing method for many, one question remains, however: should my art prints be on canvas or paper?
As a UK artist who sells cotton canvas (and previously paper) prints of their original ‘By Kerwin’ pop art paintings across the world, in this article I examine the key question about which material is better for art prints.
Both canvas and paper can be used to create high-quality Giclée art prints. Different grades of each are available. Canvas prints offer a textured, traditional feel, ideal for replicating original paintings. Paper prints, with a smoother finish, excel in showcasing detailed photographs.
in this video I explain the great benefits of using canvas for prints
I explore the choices artists face when deciding between two prominent mediums for prints: canvas or paper? With the increasing demand for art prints worldwide, this age-old debate has gained fresh relevance. Each bears its own set of advantages and considerations, which I’ll explore.
Join me as I navigate through the differences, weighing the pros and cons, to help you make an informed about what type of material is better for certain types of art prints. The canvas versus paper dilemma is not just a choice; it’s a journey into the heart of what makes your art come alive in print.
The Meaning & Origin of Giclée Printing
Giclée printing, originating from the French word “gicler”, meaning to spray or squirt, has become synonymous with the pinnacle of fine art reproduction. It’s not just a method; it’s an art form in itself, striving for perfection in replicating the essence of an original piece.
The Giclée printing technique emerged as a response to the demand for high-quality prints that could faithfully mirror the intricate details of fine art. It is a fairly modern form of printing; the term was first used fairly recently in 1991 (and was used to actually refer to prints made a four-colour inkjet printer first created in 1985).
What does the Giclée printing method involve?
The meticulous process of Giclée printing involves using advanced inkjet technology to spray microscopic droplets of pigment-based inks onto archival substrates. This method ensures a level of precision and colour accuracy that surpasses traditional printing techniques. Giclée printing is not just about making copies; it’s about capturing the soul of the original work – every brushstroke, hue, and texture.
What sets Giclée apart is its ability to recreate the nuances of the artist’s intent. The prints preserve the depth and richness of colours, ensuring that each detail is faithfully represented. Giclée printing is not merely reproduction; it’s a commitment to delivering high-quality, museum-worthy prints that encapsulate the true essence of fine art.
Giclée prints are renowned for their remarkable colour stability, robustness and longevity. Tests show Giclée-printed colours can last for over 200 years (my own range of By Kerwin canvas giclée prints offer a colour guarantee of 100 years – hopefully that is enough!).
Is It Better to Print on Cotton Canvas or Paper? Pros and Cons of Each
Both canvas and paper can be used to create high-quality Giclée art prints. Different grades of each are available. Canvas prints offer a textured, traditional feel, ideal for replicating original paintings. Paper prints, with a smoother finish, excel in showcasing detailed photographs and delicate watercolours. The choice between canvas and paper can also be determined by personal preference, cost and framing considerations.
When it comes to Giclée printing, choosing between cotton canvas and paper for your art prints is akin to deciding the canvas for an artist’s original painted masterpiece. Let’s weigh the options:
Cotton Canvas Prints
Printing on cotton canvas offers a textured, painterly feel that mimics traditional paintings. When viewed up close, this texture adds a certain warmth and feel to an art print, adding to the piece’s perceived value and prestige.
The canvas material also provides durability, making it resistant to creases and damage. This is particularly handy when it comes to unwrapping your newly purchased canvas art print from its tube and framing it – you don’t need to worry so much about creasing it, unlike paper prints.
Artists often appreciate the tactile quality and the ability of canvas prints to evoke the authentic essence of their original work. Canvas prints have a nice, weighty feel to them when handling them – you feel like you’re holding a prized piece of art. This is not always the case with paper prints; paper can feel flimsy and delicate, and can more easily leave fingerprints on the print (particularly on darker colours such as black).
Canvas Offers More Framing Flexibility
Canvas prints can also be stretched over wooden stretcher bars for a 3D hanging appearance that even more closely resembles the original painting (assuming the artist has left the necessary borders around the print to allow this).
If framing a canvas print in a picture frame, glass is often not required; the weight of the canvas can allow it to hang flat in the frame (again, paper is more likely to roll up again once it leaves the tube, and is a more delicate surface).
All in all, canvas prints are an excellent option for art prints, with many benefits. I love the premium feel of this material and I am proud whenever I see a canvas print reproduction of an original By Kerwin pop art painting of mine.
Paper Prints
On the flip side, paper prints offer a lightweight and sometimes more affordable alternative. (Although my By Kerwin paper prints were the same price as my canvas prints; the cost to me remains the same if I do custom paper printed orders.)
The smooth finish is excellent for showcasing intricate details, making it a preferred choice for certain types of artwork. Paper prints may therefore be more suited to reproducing more delicate artworks, such as watercolours.
However, the downside of paper lies in its vulnerability to damage and the potential for prints to lose their pristine condition over time. As mentioned above, paper is more prone to creasing when being framed than canvas. Paper prints do not have the same premium touch feel to them as canvas, in my opinion.
Canvas v Paper: Which is best then?
Considering longevity, both materials come with their differences, too. While canvas boasts archival qualities, ensuring a longer lifespan, paper prints can be susceptible to fading and damage without proper care. Your choice ultimately depends on the nature of your artwork and the aesthetic you aim to achieve.
Whether canvas or paper, each medium carries its own pros and cons in the world of Giclée printing.
Pros and Cons of Cotton Canvas and Paper Art Prints
| Canvas Prints | Paper Prints | |
| Pros | · Doesn’t crease easily; more robust · Premium, weighty feel to touch · Fine textured surface gives appearance of the original artwork · No need for glass if framed · Can be stretched over a wooden stretcher bar for 3D hanging appearance | · From a distance, you can’t tell the difference from a canvas print (if the same Giclée printing technique is used) · May be more affordable than canvas prints · Super lightweight They may be slightly quicker to print than canvas (if manufacturing speed is important to an artist) · Can capture high-quality details · Can be used for photo prints |
| Cons | · Really fine details of the original artwork can be lost due to the ‘bumpy’ texture of canvas · Canvas is not typically suited to photography printing | · Can crease easily – can feel fragile when unwrapping and framing · They roll up again after being taken out of their tube · May fade more easily than canvas (although Giclée printing still has exceptional colour lifespan) |
Art and Photo Prints: How the Type of Print Matters
Distinguishing between reproducing and original art or painted piece, and reproducing a photographic image with the Giclée method is crucial for determining whether canvas or paper is best for your print.
Art or painting reproduction prints often benefit from the texture and depth offered by canvas, mimicking the traditional look and feel of brushstrokes. On the other hand, photo prints may thrive on the smooth finish of paper, showcasing intricate details with clarity.
The choice between canvas and paper significantly influences the overall aesthetic appeal of the print. Canvas can add warmth and authenticity to paintings, enhancing the visual experience. Meanwhile, the clean finish of paper might be ideal for bringing out the crispness in photographs.
Understanding how the type of print interacts with your chosen medium is pivotal in ensuring your Giclée prints effectively convey the essence of your artwork or photographic vision.
Different Grades of Cotton Canvas and Paper Prints
Navigating the world of Giclée printing involves understanding the diverse grades available for both cotton canvas and paper prints. These grades encompass variations in texture, thickness, and archival properties, offering a spectrum of choices to artists and enthusiasts alike.
Cotton Canvas Grades
Canvas options range from fine to coarse textures, influencing the overall aesthetic. The thickness of the canvas can vary, impacting durability and the need for additional framing. Consider the archival quality of the canvas, ensuring longevity and resistance to fading.
The grade of the canvas, measured in terms of weight in Grams per Square Metre (“GSM”), can greatly influence the overall cost of the print. My own range of By Kerwin canvas prints are 400gsm – this is a solid thickness and canvas quality.
Paper Print Grades
Similarly, paper prints come in different weights and finishes. The weight determines the thickness, affecting the overall feel of the print. My By Kerwin paper prints were (and still are if people request paper) 200gsm, which gives an idea of their thickness and weight compared to 400gsm canvas. Guiding art buyers through this maze of choices involves considering personal preferences and budget constraints.
Paper prints also come in different finishes. The finish can be glossy, satin, matte, or somewhere in between, impacting the visual appeal (and again, cost of the print).
Whether opting for a smooth paper finish or a textured canvas, understanding the nuances of grades ensures that your Giclée prints align with your artistic vision and practical considerations. Choose wisely to bring your artwork to life in a way that suits both your aesthetic goals and financial plans.
If you’re an artist looking to develop a range of prints of your art, conduct further research around the optimal print type and grade for your art. Contact me for further advice.
Are Canvas Prints Better Than Paper Prints?
In the canvas versus paper debate for Giclée prints, determining which is “better” depends on your specific needs and preferences, and art style. Canvas prints excel in replicating the texture of traditional paintings, adding depth and authenticity to artworks (particularly those painted on canvas originally).
On the flip side, paper prints, with their smooth finish, are ideal for showcasing intricate details in photographs. Consider the setting and purpose of your artwork – canvas may be more suitable for a gallery-like atmosphere, while paper might be preferred for a sleek, modern look.
Real-life examples and case studies will illuminate the distinct visual impacts of each, aiding in your decision-making process based on the unique qualities of your artwork and the desired viewer experience.
For my own range of By Kerwin prints of my pop art original music icon paintings, canvas is the perfect print material. The weighty and robust feel to them conveys the premium feel when a customer opens their print, and the canvas lends itself perfectly to reproducing the bold acrylic colours of my paintings. Explore my full range and shop prints in my online shop here – fast worldwide delivery available.
Additional Considerations When Choosing Canvas or Paper For Your Art Prints
Ensuring your Giclée prints stand out involves more than just the printing medium. Proper framing plays a pivotal role, enhancing the overall presentation of both canvas and paper prints. Choosing the right frame complements the artwork, contributing to its visual appeal. Read my comprehensive guide on choosing the perfect frame for your art here.
Varnishing is another crucial consideration. This protective layer not only preserves the print but can also enhance colours and details. It acts as a shield against dust, UV rays, and other potential damage, ensuring longevity. Varnishing a print is not usually necessary but can add a final glossy (or matte) sheen and layer of protection if you wish.
For eco-conscious buyers, understanding the environmental impact is essential. Both canvas and paper have their ecological considerations, from production to disposal. Choosing sustainable options or exploring recycling possibilities aligns with a commitment to environmental responsibility. All of my By Kerwin prints are printed onto environmentally-responsible and vegan materials.
These additional considerations, from framing to environmental impact, contribute to the holistic approach in making informed decisions about your Giclée prints.
Conclusion: Choosing Between Canvas and Paper for your Art Prints
In conclusion, our exploration of Giclée printing has unveiled the intricacies of choosing between canvas and paper for your art prints. Canvas offers a textured, traditional feel, while paper provides a smoother, more modern touch. Delving into their unique characteristics and different grades, we’ve highlighted the nuanced choices available in texture, thickness, and archival properties.
When deciding between canvas and paper, consider your artwork’s nature and your preferences. Whether you seek the warmth of canvas or the crispness of paper, both mediums offer unique advantages.
To make an informed decision, weigh the pros and cons, and factor in additional considerations like framing, varnishing, and environmental impact. Your choice should align with your artistic vision and practical needs.
As the world of Giclée art prints continues to evolve, your insights contribute to the collective knowledge, helping fellow artists and art enthusiasts make informed decisions in their creative journeys – and in this case the choice between canvas or paper for their prints.
Was this article helpful in comparing canvas and paper prints? Please let me know! Explore my own range of ‘By Kerwin’ pop art paintings and shop prints in my online shop
Explore the rest of my practical blog section about art prints and wall decor here. I also have a blog section on the topics of music art and pop art – discover this here.
View my full range of Jackson Pollock-inspired pop art paintings and prints of your favourite music and pop culture icons at www.bykerwin.com. High-definition printing, fast worldwide delivery and satisfaction guaranteed. You can follow my art progress on Instagram and Facebook.
