Archival Printing

[PaperFinchDesign]

Do any of you offer prints done on archival paper or with archival inks? I'm starting to offer graphic prints in my shop and I'm trying to figure out how best (and most efficient) to print them.

Any advice? I've got a great local print shop that I use for my invitations, but it's just regular laser printers and they don't offer any archival prints.


Thanks so much!
Amy

[Former_Member]

I do. I went with investing in my own printer, that way I can run them as they are ordered - no waiting. I went with an Epson r3000 printer which uses epson ultrachrome K3 archival pigment inks. I got it in October and have been very happy with the quality of printing. I also use archival paper which I get from RedRiverPaper.com and have been very happy with their selectin and service too. If you need any more feedback, feel free to convo me.

[SummerWeeds]

I wrote a couple blog posts about this subject that have a lot of information about making archival high quality prints.

Part 1
http://madebykimhoffman.blogspot.com/2010/09/giclee-prints-part-1-great-giclee.html

Part 2
http://madebykimhoffman.blogspot.com/2011/03/giclee-prints-part-2-paper-and-ink.html

[MilkandCookies]

I do too. I've invested in my own printer as well.
Make sure you buy one that uses pigment inks - not dye inks.
There are a few Epson models, and many artists use these. They're not the only brand though, so do your research.

When starting out, you might want to find a local print shop that specialises in archival printing, and use their services.
That way you can test out your products on the market before having to make a big investment, as the pigment ink printers can be very $$

good luck!