Creating art prints at home has been a game-changer for me as an artist. It’s a way to share my work with people who truly connect with it, without relying on galleries or third-party services. The process is personal, creative, and gives me full control over every detail. Plus, it’s more accessible than you might think.
If you’ve ever wanted to try making prints at home, I’m here to share how I do it, step by step.
Why Making Limited Edition Prints at Home is a Great Option
When I first started selling prints, I quickly discovered the value of limited edition prints. These aren’t just reproductions—they’re carefully curated pieces that feel exclusive and meaningful. Limited editions changed how I approached my art business by giving me a way to make my work feel accessible without losing its unique, collectible appeal.
What Makes Limited Edition Prints Special
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that people love owning something rare. Limited edition prints tap into that sense of exclusivity, but they also remain affordable for those who can’t invest in an original piece. It’s a win-win: my collectors get a piece of art they treasure, and I get to share my work with more people.
There’s also a practical side to limited editions. Unlike originals, which can take weeks or months to complete, prints allow me to focus on creating without constantly being in production mode. I’ll often release a new piece as part of a 72-hour launch window, where collectors can place their orders, and I produce only what’s sold. It’s efficient and keeps my studio free of excess inventory.
If you’re curious about how to create and launch your own limited editions, my Limited Edition Launch guide walks you through the entire process, from choosing the right materials to building excitement around your release.
My Equipment and Materials for Making Prints at Home
Getting the right tools was a bit of a learning curve for me, but once I invested in quality equipment, everything changed. Here’s what I’ve found works best for creating professional-grade prints at home.
Printers
When I was just starting, I didn’t realize how much difference the right printer makes. I use a professional-grade inkjet printer, which gives me vibrant colors and crisp details that do justice to my originals. If you’re looking to invest in a printer, consider these features:
- Archival Inks: These are essential for long-lasting prints that won’t fade over time.
- Wide Format Capability: If you’re making larger prints, you’ll need a printer that can handle paper sizes up to 13×19 inches or more.
- Color Management: Advanced color calibration ensures your prints match the originals as closely as possible.
I’ve detailed some of the best printers for artists in another article, which might help you find one that suits your needs and budget.
Paper and Inks
I’ll admit, I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of paper options more than once. After a lot of trial and error, I’ve landed on Hahnemühle fine art paper for its beautiful texture and archival quality. Other great options include:
- Matte Papers: Perfect for creating prints with soft, painterly finishes.
- Glossy Papers: These are great for high-saturation, detailed work.
- Heavyweight Paper: Look for paper that’s at least 250gsm for a professional feel.
Using high-quality inks is just as important. Always choose archival inks designed for your printer model. The combination of good paper and ink ensures that your prints not only look great but also stand the test of time.
Preparing Artwork for Printing
One of the most time-consuming parts of making prints at home is preparing the artwork, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. I love seeing my work come to life in print form, and a little extra effort during this stage ensures everything looks polished and professional.
Digitizing Your Art
Whether I’m working with a drawing, painting, or mixed media piece, I always start by digitizing it. For smaller works, I use a high-resolution scanner (600 dpi or higher), while for larger pieces, I rely on a DSLR camera and proper lighting. The goal is to capture every detail, from subtle textures to vibrant colors.
Editing and Color Correction
After digitizing, I spend time in Photoshop adjusting colors, contrast, and sharpness to match the original piece. This step can be tricky because every monitor displays colors differently. I use a calibrated monitor to ensure the colors I see on-screen will translate well in print.
File Formats and Sizes
For the best results, I save my files as high-resolution TIFFs or JPEGs, with a resolution of at least 300 dpi. This ensures that even larger prints come out sharp and clear. Paying attention to file quality is crucial if you want your prints to have a professional finish.
Adding Value to Your Prints
To me, the little details are what make a print feel truly special. Over the years, I’ve learned that adding personal touches can turn a simple print into something collectors cherish.
Certificates of Authenticity
Each print I sell comes with a certificate of authenticity. This simple addition not only verifies the print’s edition number but also reassures buyers that they’re investing in a legitimate, limited piece.
Numbering and Signing
I personally hand-number and sign each print, which adds a human touch and reinforces its exclusivity. This small act creates a stronger connection between me and the collector.
Packaging and Presentation
I believe presentation is everything. I package my prints in acid-free sleeves and sturdy mailers to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. If you’re shipping large or framed prints, my article on how much it costs to ship a painting offers helpful tips on keeping shipping costs manageable while protecting your work.
Selling Your Prints
Selling prints is one of the most rewarding parts of this process. Over time, I’ve developed a system that helps me connect with buyers and create lasting relationships.
Choosing Where to Sell
I’ve tried everything from online marketplaces to selling directly through my website. Platforms like ArtPal can be great for reaching new buyers, but I’ve found the most success through my own site. If you’re exploring options, check out my guide to the best places to sell art.
Pricing Your Prints
Figuring out pricing used to stress me out, I don't recommend using my artwork pricing calculator. I consider factors like material costs, edition size, past accomplishments, and experiences I had to set prices that feel fair and sustainable.
Building Excitement
One of my favorite parts of releasing a new print is building anticipation. I share sneak peeks on social media, send email updates to my collectors, and create a limited-time offer to encourage early buyers. This approach not only drives sales but also makes each launch feel like an event. If you’re looking for strategies to build excitement, my Limited Edition Launch guide dives deeper into the process