Fine art printing papers explained

For our Open Edition Art Prints on paper we select from eight types of fine art papers which give a different look to your print.

Here is some added information to help you make an informed choice of paper to suit your selected image. 

In many cases we have made the choice for you. But, if you do have the option to choose your own paper, there are no rules, just trust your instincts! 

Archival Matte Paper is a luxuriant acid free paper which will not yellow and degrade over time. These papers are designed for very long term longevity of top quality, highly valued images.

Glossy Photo Paper was designed for professional photographers to achieve images of high colour intensity and clarity.

Semi-Matte Photo Paper gives you a print with no glare or glossiness at all. The lack of glare is meant to give your print a more artistic, understated look.

Picture Rag Paper is a cotton based, conservation quality paper which gives impressive results with black and white images but it also produces impressive colour saturation.

Somerset Velvet is a softly textured paper for a traditional watercolour look. It works well with dark images.

Watercolor Paper is an irregular textured paper traditionally used to paint on. This is a particularly heavy, stiff paper which is great if you want to handle it out of a frame. Perfect for printing painterly images.

Luster Photo Paper resembles the kind of pearly finish paper used in old school photos. The luster finish also has a delicate sparkle that makes images of water scintillate.

Metallic Paper prints are a budget-friendly way to create modern wall art.  Metallic paper provides an exceptionally vibrant print with the shine and shimmer of metal.   This highly durable paper is mostly white with a signature metallic finish, making it ideal for a wide range of images including white and flesh tones.

All our art prints include a 1" white border around the image to allow for future framing, if desired. 

Our papers are also acid-free to prevent yellowing and degradation over time. These papers are of archival quality to protect your investment.

Choose from our extensive collection of art prints on paper here.