Putting photographs on canvas, both as low-cost gifts (such as putting a photograph on a pillow for a relative) and as high-end art prints, are becoming very popular. A giclee print is another word that can be used to refer to these prints (though they are not necessarily done on canvas, most prints done on canvas are giclee prints), which refers to the printing process used. There are two processes that can be used for photo canvas, one of which is less expensive but provides a lower-quality product.

The less expensive process involves coating canvas in PVC and printing in that surface; while this is less expensive and thus a more popular choice, it has the drawback that the inked surface can crack—it is, after all, plastic. The more expensive process, which involves unprocessed canvas, uses special ink instead of a special printing surface. The water-based, heat-cured ink is so durable that it is actually already used in the clothing industry for hard-wearing products like shoes, and it’s better for the environment than printing on PVC. The only tradeoff is that it is a slightly more expensive method, but well worth the extra money for a more durable, higher quality product.

Tags: Canvas photo