Prints or Originals

[Former_Member]

I've been toying with the idea of doing some prints of my paintings that I have of my shop. Some of my themes would work well as prints and the idea is to have smaller price points to offer as well. But, I like the idea of offering only hand painted items too. I would like some advice on this. Please take some time to look at my shop and tell me what you think?

Thank you so much!

[Former_Member]

Hmm...tough decision. I would go for the prints! Its still your original work, and it will open your shop to a new customer at a lower price point.

[Former_Member]

I'm with you, Kate! The thought of selling prints seems enticing because perhaps it would mean making more frequent sales....but on the other hand I like the idea of having truly one of a kind pieces. For now I'm going to hold out for the one BIG sale instead of adding up 10 smalls ones. That could change though!

Have you looked at any print on demand sites? (like fineartamerica.com)? You upload your image and I think promote it much the way you would here...but they do all the printing and shipping for you! They tell you what your cost will be (what amount they will keep) and then you can set your prices to whatever you want to make on top of that. I like the idea of not having to mess with it all!! But the down-side would be having to promote two different sites. I haven't put anything there yet...but I've toyed with the idea.

Good luck with your decision!! It sure seems that most people here sell prints, and I've certainly noticed that many shops do have lots of "sales" listed.

[Former_Member]

@WatercolorsByAmyC, you have put my thoughts into words so well!. Only some of my paintings would really work as prints, so maybe I will just try it out and see what happens. If someone does like one of my paintings, but can't spend $50 + on an original, I feel like offering prints would be a good thing, but then I still have the artistic turmoil with doing reproductions. Another point is that I am a graphic designer as well and do alot of phot manipulations of my paintings that turn out great, so it is still a form of art, just done digitally. I found some fabulous printable canvas paper that looks great, so I may just try it out on a few things and see what happens.

[Former_Member]

I think given their own section, and clearly labelled as prints, they would be distinct from your originals, and most artists I work with in my day job do prints of their work unless it's a comission, so it's a common practice.

But, at the end of the day, your shop should be what you wish it to be, and I think either decision is valid. Go with what makes you happier :)

[Former_Member]

thanks everyone for your positive feedback. I really really appreciate it!