There are three main types of prints: Open Edition Prints, Limited Editon Prints and Original Artists' Prints.

Open Edition Prints

Open Edition means that an unspecified number of prints have been made, and that the image on the print may not just be in print form; it may also appear on t-shirts, mugs, table mats etc. Open Edition Prints are generally not collectable as they are usually easily available. However, some Open Editions become collectable over time.

The quality of open editions sometimes varies greatly. The finest prints are on paper of 250g or more - as prints that are on thin paper are more likely to curl and crease easily.

The future potential value of any print should always be considered and we will be sure to discuss any possible special requirements that you may have.

Limited Edition Prints

Limited Edition prints are almost always harder to find than Open Edition prints - as the print-run is limited to the number printed on the bottom of the print. Once all the prints have been finished, the apparatus used to create them should have been destroyed so that there is no chance of any more prints being made.

Limited Edition prints usually increase in value over time as their number begins to dwindle, and they are usually printed using higher quality materials and equipment than Open Edition prints, so that they last longer.

Special "Artists Proof" prints are sometimes sold for a higher value than normal Limited Edition prints as they are the prints that the artist themselves has approved for production. Generally, they should be the same as the rest of the prints except in the case of Original Artist Prints - see the section below for more.

These paintings often require special glazings and framing methods to ensure they are kept perfectly and suffer no damage over time. We can help you decide what you want with your frame.

Original Artists' Prints

This type of print is generally accepted as being an image that was created by the artist specifically for printing - and therefore the artist has a much greater role in the print production than with normal prints.

The prints are not made from 'originals', instead they are constructed from the plates, screens, digital images etc. The act of printing itself creates the picture.

Artist Proof prints are generally valued higher for these prints as the artists may take a few APs before the official run begins to make sure they are happy - these are often of a higher quality than the rest of the run as the printing block is brand new.

Original Artist prints should be conservation framed as a minimum, as their value is sure to increase over time, and we have a number of other framing options that can prolong the life and quality of your print.

If you have any enquiries about Print Framing, or are interested in having a print of any type framed, send us an e-mail at sales@bramptonframing.com or call us on 01246 554338.