FAQ's About Purchasing a Fine Art Piece
Chromaluxe Metal Prints
The image is first printed with thermo-sensitive inks onto a transfer paper. Using heat and pressure the inks are transferred onto a sheet of Chromaluxe, the highest quality metal print substrate currently available. Chromaluxe prints are scratch-resistant, fade-resistant, and waterproof. Their smooth surface shows rich color and contrast along with crisp definition. They are simple to care for; a microfiber cloth can be used along with a little water if necessary to wipe them clean. The high quality and durability of metal prints are why these are the pieces I most often display; and makes them an excellent value for the investment.
Lumachrome Acrylic Prints
The image is printed onto a transparency layer that is sandwiched between a protective luminescent white backing and 1/8" thick optically clear, UV-blocking acrylic. Like Chromaluxe prints they show rich color and lifelike definition; and their layered construction adds an extra hint of dimension. Lumachrome prints are the most expensive option, but yield the highest print quality and truest colorof any of the prints I offer. These prints should be cleaned with a solution specifically formulated for acrylic such as Brillianize. Care must be exercised when handling, as acrylic prints are prone to scratching; a metal print may be a better choice for high-touch pieces. However for areas where incidental contact is not a concern, acrylic prints are the ultimate in high-end luxury.
Paper Prints
The image is printed with archival pigments onto Polar Gloss Metallic photo paper. This is a smooth paper with a luminescent sheen that reflects light beautifully. Print quality and detail remain very high but does not quite have the same visual impact as a metal or acrylic piece. Paper prints are less expensive, but must be matted and framed for display; the cost for quality framing can be quite high. Most people therefore opt for metal or acrylic prints for larger pieces as they provide greater visual impact for the investment. I offer value-priced paper prints up to 12x18 as a standard option on the website. If you are interested in a larger-sized paper print please use the Request a Quote link in the web store and I'm happy to create a custom quote to meet your needs.
Canvas Gallery Wraps
The image is printed with archival pigments onto canvas, which is then wrapped around a stretcher frame and coated with a UV-resistant finish. Canvas is a more economical way to print large pieces, but while canvas prints generally look good, they are less crisp and impressive compared to the others options above. The woven texture of canvas competes with detail in the print, and tends to eat light rather than reflect it. Canvas can however be a good choice for more minimalistic, less richly detailed images. I don't offer canvas prints as a standard option on this website; however if you are interested in a canvas piece, please use the Request a Quote link in my web store and I'm happy to quote a custom piece to meet your needs.
Glossy Finish
The glossy finish is my most popular option for good reason - it makes colors pop and enhances perceived contrast, yielding the most vibrant and dimensional pieces. However, it is highly reflective and therefore might produce glare under harsh direct lighting. Glare may be especially noticeable in the darker regions of the piece.
Matte Finish
Some prefer the softer look of a matte finish. Perceived contrast is not quite as deep as a glossy print, leading to a look that is just a touch more 'flat' compared to the glossy finish. Because the matte finish diffuses light, it dramatically reduces glare, making it an excellent choice for harsh lighting conditions.
Satin Finish (Chromaluxe Metal Prints Only)
The satin finish is a great "in-between" choice. Less reflective than the glossy finish, but more lustrous than a matte finish, it strikes a good balance between softening glare and retaining contrast. It's a flexible choice that works well in a variety of conditions.
Whenever possible I am happy to create custom-sized pieces to perfectly fit your space. Some images will have a more restrictive size range than others dependent upon their proportions and resolution. I'm also happy to work with you on alternative framing or mounting options, or shipping outside of the USA. For any of these concerns just contact me to request a quote.
To request a quote:
- For each piece you are interested in, click its Add to Lightbox option (this option appears as a checkmark in the thumbnail view).
- When you are finished selecting images, click the My Lightbox item from the website menu.
- On the Lightbox page, click the Request a quotation for this selection link at the bottom of the page.
- Fill out any relevant details (desired sizes, finishes, shipping postal code, framing options, etc) along with your contact information and click the Send button.
Alternatively if you are interested in a single piece:
- Click the Buy button on the desired image.
- On the next page (where you would normally select your options", click the Request a quotation link under the image thumbnail.
- Enter relevant information about what you're looking for (desired size, finish, etc.) and click the Send button.
I typically respond to requests within 24 hours; however if I am working in a remote area responses may be delayed. Rest assured that I will reply to you as soon as I am back within range of civilization!
I keep only limited stock on hand for art shows, so I create most print orders on demand. I typically ship orders within 2 weeks time from receipt of payment (often faster for the smaller matted prints) and will email you with tracking information when your order ships.
Occasionally if you place an order during a time that I am either working in a remote area or doing a string of art shows, orders may require as many as 4 weeks to ship. During those timeframes, my website header will have a large notice at the top so that you'll know when to expect an extended ship time.
Once shipped, delivery will range anywhere from 1-5 business days within the continental US depending on your distance from Washington State. Deliveries to Alaska and Hawaii may take 6-7 business days.
- Paypal Credit - this service from Paypal allows approved purchasers to order the piece and have it delivered now while paying for it over up to 6 months interest-free. To use it, first apply for Paypal Credit. Once approved, purchase the piece here and select Paypal as your payment type. Paypal Credit will then be one of your options when you sign in to pay.
- Layaway Plan - A non-refundable 25% invoice is issued up front. The remaining 75% will be invoiced interest-free over a period of up to 1 year, with delivery of the piece once the full payment is complete. If you are interested in purchasing a piece with the Layaway Plan, please Contact Me or Request a Quote to discuss payment terms.