If you’re in the market for a high-quality print, a giclee print is a fantastic choice. To help you learn more about giclee prints, their qualities and advantages, and how they differ from traditional printing, we’ve put together this helpful guide.
What is giclee printing?
Giclee (pronounced zhee-clay) printing is a term derived from the French “la giclée,” or “that which is sprayed or squirted.” This printing method originated in the 1980s, and combined high-resolution scans with archival-quality inks to deliver a high-quality, more durable product. The technique was further expanded in 1991, with inkjet printers being used to create higher-quality print products – though it’s important to know that not all inkjet prints classify as giclee prints.
So what makes a print giclee?
While giclee prints originally referred to reproductions of artworks or photographs, it’s now understood that a giclee print can be created simply with the use of computer applications like Adobe Photoshop. Even so, there are particular specifications a work must meet in order to be considered giclee.
- Document resolution: As detail and quality are foundational elements of the giclee print, they must have a resolution of 300 dots per inch (DPI) or higher. This is standard regardless of whether the print is a reproduction or an original digital file. Such a resolution ensures sharpness and a lack of fragmentation.
- Paper: The paper used for a giclee print is just as important as the resolution. Archival-quality paper or substrate is essential, and it’s best if it’s acid-free and has a 100% cotton or rag base. Such quality of paper will ensure longevity and high-quality reproduction of colour.
- Ink and printer: Giclee prints are distinguished from standard inkjet prints by the fact they used inks derived from pigments rather than dyes. A pigment-based ink can last even up to 200 years without significant deterioration in colour. Giclee prints are usually produced on models that specifically use such inks and can accommodate up to 12 colour cartridges, which ensures a better range of colour in the final product.
How much does a giclee print cost?
Giclee prints are more expensive than your typical inkjet or bulk print because the materials and equipment used to create them is pricy. Furthermore, the technique used to produce a giclee print is slow, and most are produced either individually or two at a time. This differs from the standard lithography print reproductions, which can be mass-produced on high-speed equipment. The quality of a giclee can’t be denied, however. When a giclee’s done right, you’ll struggle to tell the difference between the print and the original. Although they’re not as valuable as an original piece of art, they prove fantastic ways of allowing artists and other creatives to share their works with wider audiences.
Want to invest in a giclee print? Choose Gold Coast Printing & Framing
If you want to memorialise a photo or artwork in the best possible way, a quality-made giclee print from Gold Coast Printing & Framing might be the answer. Our experienced, friendly team is passionate about delivering the highest-quality printing and framing solutions to all our valued customers. You’ll be sure we’ll work closely with you to help create a product that perfectly meets your needs and is guaranteed to last for years to come. Contact us today on 0450 557 825 or via our website to arrange a free consultation.
