Two very different looks
Fine art paper and canvas can both carry superb inkjet reproductions, but they present the work in quite different ways. Paper gives a refined, gallery-print look with fine detail, usually shown behind glass in a mount and frame. Canvas has a woven texture that recalls an original painting and is usually stretched over a frame and hung without glass.
Pluss is one of two UK distributors of PremierArt fine art papers and canvas from Premier Imaging.
Compared
| Fine art paper | Canvas | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Smooth or textured, fine detail | Woven texture, painterly |
| Typical display | Mounted and framed behind glass | Stretched on a frame, no glass |
| Best for | Photography, drawings, watercolours, limited editions | Oil and acrylic reproductions, large statement pieces, portraits |
| Protection | Glass and mount, optional coating | Liquid laminate recommended |
| Handling | Delicate surface, handle with care | More robust once coated |
| Framing | Mount, frame, glazing | Stretcher bars; frame optional |
How to decide
- Consider the original. Painted works in oil or acrylic often look most natural on canvas. Photographs, drawings and watercolours usually suit paper.
- Think about the setting. Glass can reflect light in bright rooms; an unglazed canvas avoids that.
- Look at size and budget for framing. Large framed and glazed prints can be heavy; a stretched canvas is often lighter to hang.
- Ask what the buyer expects. Collectors of limited-edition prints often prefer paper; décor buyers often prefer canvas.
- Print a test. Use the correct media profile and compare a small proof on each.
Finishing and protection
Canvas is usually displayed without glass, so it benefits from a protective coat. ClearShield Type C is designed for canvas, and ClearJet Fine Art suits water-based and water-sensitive inks. Liquid laminate stays flexible and will not crack, which matters when canvas is stretched. Learn more on our liquid laminate for canvas page and in applying liquid laminate.
Paper prints are normally protected by glazing, but liquid laminate is also suitable for fine art papers, including PremierArt, where a print will be displayed unglazed.
Tip: If you coat canvas before stretching it, let the laminate dry fully before you start stretching. Use the PremierArt printer settings guides for Canon, Epson and HP Z series printers, available in the downloads on this page, to get accurate colour from the start.
Fine art media is popular with photographers, picture framers and exhibitions and museums. To keep sheets and rolls in perfect condition, see storing and handling media.
Talk to us
For advice on the PremierArt range, sizes, pricing and availability, call 01252 624411 or email sales@landoruk.com.