you get what you pay for
Wisdom says, “You get what you pay for.” Certainly true when it comes to producing photo artwork as wrapped canvases. Over the years, a few clients have questioned the pricing of the canvases that I offer because they’ve seen promotions on social media for products that appear to be similar, offered at lower costs. I thought it would be helpful to break down the differences between a ‘bargain” canvas and the heirloom quality products that I offer.
Frame Construction
Bargain frames are simply a 1/2” frame, often stapled together – end of story. Quality frames are hand-glued (i.e. won’t come loose) solid wood frames with sizes proportional to the canvas size (important when you get into larger sizes). Most importantly, my canvases have a front face reinforcement board providing extra strength and preventing warping.
Backing
Bargain canvases typically leave the back of the canvas exposed with rough edges and staples. Quality canvases are fully covered, leaving smooth surfaces.
Hanging
Most low-cost products leave you to install hanging hardware on the frame. The first time I tried this, I actually split the frame! A well-produced canvas comes ready to hang. My preferred choice is the metal tab hangers because I find these are easier to get straight in the first place, allow for perfect alignment when hanging several pieces together, and stay straight on the wall. You can however request a wire hanger. My canvases also come with clear bumpers to protect your walls.
Archival Endurance
The one and only time I bought a bargain canvas was ten years ago (I had to at least check them out!) Now, the colours on the canvas have faded. To prevent this, my lab uses the highest quality pigment inks and includes an archival lamination on the canvas that gives both protection and durability.
(Side note on colours – I wasn’t thrilled with the colours on the cheap canvas in the first place. Like so many consumer printers, colour matching is not their priority). Because my editing monitor is calibrated to my lab specifications, I get consistent colour results EVERY time.)
Upgrade
I’d be leaving this discussion of canvas art incomplete if I didn’t mention the option to upgrade your artwork with a floating frame. This gives an extra punch with contemporary styling. Learn more Here.
