Giclée Printing – What Is It?

Basically from my experience and understanding, Giclée prints are higher-quality reproductions of original artworks. They are created using high end inkjet printers that precisely spray millions of tiny ink droplets onto paper. This process allows for a continuous tone printing, resulting in exceptionally high definition and detail. This method does capture the artist’s original artwork with remarkable true accuracy, ensuring that every detail and texture is replicated. My preferred papers for giclee prints are usually Hahnemuhle photo rag or bamboo.

Normal printing today does often produce high standards to the untrained eye, but they won’t stand the test of time, as standard printers will not be using colourfast archival inks nor print on acid free museum quality papers. Giclée printing is my go-to, and what I use to produce any high end limited edition print runs and commission requests for art which is to be framed. However, for my standard digital A4 and A3 prints I use a very good standard printer who also prints my greeting cards and gift wrap. I have been using both printing methods, Giclée and standard printing since my business started in 2012.

Giclée Printing – How It Came About?

The term ‘giclée’ (pronounced “zhee-clay”) was adopted by a Californian artist and print-maker named Jack Duganne in the 1990s to describe highly accurate fine art reproductions made on IRIS inkjet printers.

It stems from the French word ‘gicleur’ (meaning ‘jet’ or nozzle’) which is derived from the verb ‘gicler’ meaning ‘to spray or spurt’ and in this context, refers to spraying of the ink onto the substrate, usually paper but also canvas.

Despite being French in origin, the word ‘giclée’ is more commonly used within English speaking countries to refer to the process, in many parts of the world including the U.S.A. and U.K. The expression ’giclée print’ came into common usage following Jack Duganne’s adoption of the term.

Today, Giclée printing has evolved and is now created using state-of-the-art inkjet printers that offer enhanced precision and a broader spectrum of colours. This process revolutionised the art reproduction industry by offering artists a way to produce limited edition print runs of their artwork that maintain the integrity and rich vibrancy of their original works.

Giclée Printing – Why?

Firstly, the quality is unparalleled. By using high-resolution images and a wide range of colours, Giclée prints can capture the finest details of the original piece—right down to the texture of a brush stroke. Secondly, they are printed on archival-grade paper, which means they are designed to stand the test of time.

Giclée prints are produced using high gamut inkjet printers with up to 12 different coloured pigment based inks which are lightfast and archival. They not only produce a phenomenal range and depth of colour, but also smooth transition of tone and great luminosity, where required.

Paired with a range of museum grade papers or canvas, giclée prints will meet archival standards and bring many years of enjoyment for the artist or collector.

Investing in a Giclée Print?

For those who appreciate fine art but aren’t ready to invest in an original piece, Giclée prints offer an affordable yet high-quality alternative. Giclée prints are often offered as a limited edition, meaning they are produced in restricted quantities, each one signed and numbered by the artist, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. This adds an element of exclusivity and value to the print. Additionally, the use of high-quality materials ensures that the print remains in excellent condition for many years to come.