What is a Giclée Art Print? A Complete Guide

At GoodMood, we specialise in offering high-quality giclée prints to ensure that every piece of art you purchase is crafted to perfection. Our team is dedicated to bringing you museum-quality reproductions that preserve the vibrant details of the original artwork, thanks to the advanced giclée printing method. We believe that exceptional art should be accessible to all, and that's why we’ve made it our mission to offer the finest giclée prints that last a lifetime.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your art collection, giclée prints from GoodMood are a top-tier option for your walls.If you're an art lover or collector, you've probably come across the term "giclée" at some point.

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about giclée prints, answer common questions, and explain why they’re worth every penny.

What is a Giclée Print vs. an Art Print?

The main difference between a giclée and a regular art print lies in the printing process and materials used. Giclée (pronounced "zhee-clay") is a French term that means “to spray.” This refers to the inkjet printing process, where tiny droplets of ink are sprayed onto the paper or canvas, creating a precise, high-quality reproduction of the original artwork.

Standard art prints, on the other hand, are often produced using offset or digital printing techniques, which may not capture the same level of detail or colour accuracy. They are typically less expensive and printed on lower-quality materials.

What Makes Giclée Prints Special?

Several key factors make giclée prints stand out in the world of art reproduction:

1. High-Resolution Printing: Giclée prints are created using high-resolution images (typically 300 DPI or higher), ensuring the artwork is reproduced with stunning detail and clarity.
2. Archival-Quality Inks: Giclée prints use pigment-based inks that are long-lasting and fade-resistant, unlike the dye-based inks used in standard prints. This gives giclée prints their incredible colour accuracy and durability.
3. Premium Paper or Canvas: Giclée prints are often produced on high-quality, archival-grade paper or canvas that ensures longevity and resists yellowing over time.
4. Wide Colour Gamut: The advanced inkjet technology used in giclée printing can produce millions of colours, capturing the subtle gradations in tone and shade that are often lost in traditional printing methods.

Is a Giclée Print worth anything?

Absolutely! Giclée prints are highly valued in the art world, and while they’re not considered “originals,” they are often seen as collectible, limited-edition pieces. Many artists and galleries opt for giclée prints because they maintain the integrity of the original artwork while making it more accessible to a broader audience. For collectors, a high-quality giclée can be an excellent investment, especially if it’s signed or part of a limited run.

 

Why Are Giclée Prints So Expensive?

Giclée prints tend to be more expensive than standard prints because of the high-quality materials and processes involved. Archival inks, premium papers, and the precision of high-resolution inkjet printing all contribute to the higher price point. However, the longevity and beauty of a giclée print make it a worthwhile investment. With proper care, a giclée print can last for decades without fading or losing its vibrancy.

Giclée vs. Art Print: which should you choose?

Choosing between a giclée print and a regular art print depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for an affordable option to decorate your space, a standard art print may be the way to go. However, if you’re seeking museum-quality art that will stand the test of time, a giclée print is the better option. The level of detail, colour accuracy, and durability of giclée prints make them an excellent choice for serious collectors and art lovers who want to own a premium piece of artwork.

Giclée paper and why it matters

Another important aspect of giclée prints is the type of paper or canvas used. Giclée prints are typically produced on acid-free, archival-grade paper, such as cotton rag or canvas, which ensures the print's longevity. Giclée paper is designed to maintain the artwork’s vibrant colours and sharp details over time, preventing it from fading or deteriorating. This makes giclée prints a top choice for artists and buyers who want their prints to last for years without losing their appeal. At GoodMood we use archival grade 200gsm fine art paper with a matte finish. The absolute peach for allowing colours to sing!

Making Giclée art accessible

While giclée prints may be more expensive than traditional prints, they offer unparalleled quality and longevity. If you’re looking for giclée prints for sale, there are many online art marketplaces, like GoodMood, that offer a wide selection of beautiful, high-quality prints. These marketplaces make it easy to find the perfect piece for your home or office, whether you’re looking for contemporary, abstract, or classic art.

Why artists love giclée printing

Many artists choose giclée prints because they allow them to reproduce their work at a high standard while maintaining the integrity of the original piece. For artists, this is a great way to make their work more accessible without compromising on quality. In fact, many professional artists sell limited-edition giclée prints as a way to offer high-quality reproductions of their original works.

Making your art collection stand out

If you’re an art enthusiast or collector looking for high-quality, affordable art that will stand the test of time, giclée prints are an excellent choice. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, photography, or classic reproductions, giclée prints offer a way to enjoy beautiful artwork without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In summary, giclée prints offer a level of quality and longevity that far surpasses standard art prints. The process involves high-resolution printing, archival-grade inks, and premium materials, making them a worthwhile investment for both artists and collectors. While they may come at a higher price point, the attention to detail and durability of giclée prints make them a timeless addition to any art collection.Whether you’re looking for a giclée print t complete your living space or are an artist seeking the best way to reproduce your work, giclée prints are a top-tier option that delivers both beauty and longevity.

Artwork featured by Rikki Hewitt and Studio Frisk