Are metal prints good quality?
All metal prints are definitely NOT alike. Firstly, there are a couple of ways to make metal prints. Either an inferior quality “direct print” onto an aluminum sheet that begin fading in a couple of years, or a much higher quality “dye sublimation” process. Ours use the dye-sublimation process. Secondly, the brand of aluminum is VERY important. We use the original and the best aluminum coated sheets by Chromaluxe™ This is the key to us providing the highest quality metal prints. Chromaluxe metal prints have been shown to resist fading for 65+ years. Additional benefits include lightweight, water resistant, flame resistant and fade resistant.
What makes the Dye Sublimation Process superior?
Rather than printing your image directly onto aluminum which results in a lower resolution print that scratches and fades easily, we use the Dye Sublimation Process! During the dye sublimation process your image is first printed onto a transfer paper with “dye” inks then “sublimated” into the aluminum sheet with heat and pressure. At this point the inks are bonded with the aluminum for permanent protection and longevity! Because the inks are infused beneath the coating of the metal these prints are also scratch resistant and hold up perfectly in moist environments. Unlike other print mediums, you can wipe away fingerprints easily with a soft microfiber cloth and glass cleaner, which will leave your HD Metal Prints looking like new for a lifetime!
Will my HD Metal Print fade in the light?
Because the image is heat infused into the aluminum metal the inks are bonded with the metal creating a very long lasting print. Xenon Light Stability Testing has shown that HD Metal Prints last 2-4 times longer than traditional photo based silver papers.
Can my HD Metal Print be used outside?
Yes! There is now an Outdoor HD Metal Print option that is treated with UV protection and is very weather resistant. Note that these prints may see some fading begin after 5 years. Keeping them in a protected patio are can help prolong your print color quality. Costs are about 15-20% higher.
Is my HD Metal Print easy to clean?
Yes! Chromaluxe aluminum has been revolutionary for the healthcare industry due to the surface of the material being so easy to clean & maintain, as well as it’s inherent resistance to bacteria and other pathogens. Just use a clean lint free cloth to wipe off your print. You can use water or non-ammonia glass cleaner, but do NOT use rubbing alcohol to clean your print.
Can I order a custom size to fit my space?
Yes! Custom sizes are not only available (8×8 or larger) but incur no extra fees! In the Metal Prints, sizes are available up to 40” on one side with a maximum of 60” on the other. The Canvas Prints are available with one side a maximum of 48” and up to 96” on the other side. Note that a small part of the image may be lost if reconfiguring the aspect ratio. I can assist with choosing the best overall composition for the size desired and will seek confirmation before ordering. Just let me know how I can help you get just the right artwork for your space!
The wall mount on a metal print serves several purposes.
- It stabilizes the metal print since it’s a fairly thin sheet of metal.
- It provides a way to hang your metal print
- The frame is 3/4″ deep making your image appear to be floating off the wall.
Small prints can be enjoyed with no mount by displaying on an easel or framed, however prints 12×16 and larger should have a Float Mount or Aluminum Mount, and sizes 20” and above require an Aluminum mount to fully support the metal.
An optional wire hanger can be added to the Aluminum
Float Mount / Aluminum Mount / Giclee Canvas Edge
The Canvas Edge is available as a “mirror image”, pictured in the above example, or as a solid color
Archival Inks Printed with the latest Epson Surecolor S80600 Printers featuring the newly developed Epson UltraChrome® 9-color eco-solvent inks! This gives your images the widest color gamut available. You can be confident that your canvas prints will not yellow or fade over time.
Real Wood Bars Some canvas prints are stretched around particle board or cheap wood that can warp over time. We only use USA grown pine stretcher bars that are smooth and straight, and hand stretch each canvas print ensuring a “drum like” tightness that won’t sag or warp over time.