Limited Edition Giclee Prints

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A good number of our clients hires our company to make limited edition prints. What separates the giclee printing process from limited edition serigraphs or lithographs is the quality of the color and papers.

Limited edition prints, signed and dated by the artist are generally more valuable to art buyers for the obvious reasons of limited supply. If the demand exceeds the availability of the art the prices and desirability increases. We are often asked what a good number is for limited edition prints: the answer varies depending on the perceived demand for a particular piece and it is sometimes hard to forecast. One way to gauge demand is to go with an open edition for a piece and see how it sells. It is likely that another piece from the same artist, theme and style will attract similar demand.

During the initial proofing process, a small set of giclees is used to check progress with color, detail etc. These prints can be marketed as artist's proofs and are outside the scope of the LE run.

Of course, when the artist is well known and established in the marketplace, it is much easier to forecast how a LE will fare. Limited edition prints can be priced higher and carry more weight with serious art buyers. On the other hand if there is strong demand, when the edition is closed, revenue ends just like when an original is sold. One way to get around the possible drawback is to embellish each giclee. By doing so every piece is virtually different from any other and it is not necessary to create a close end edition.

Of course limited edition prints can also be embellished. At this point pricing can be increased to reflect the hand work and the numbered supply. There is absolutely nothing wrong with open editions and we have a few clients who sign them individually and make a very good living without being tied to the number game.

Nevertheless limited edition prints do carry weight and, when accompanied by a certificate, will attract buyers who otherwise would not purchase fine art reproductions. We usually have a conversation with artists who use our services regarding the feasibility of creating a defined number edition or staying open. Once we get to know the marketing strategy, current sales, we usually have a pretty good idea on what the best avenue is. And keep in mind that if you decide to go with a limited edition of i.e. 200, we can print even one at a time to reduce your upfront costs. Please refer to the print marketing page for more information.

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