About the Limited Edition Print:- Paper, Ink and preparation
The paper I have chosen for this print collection is Arches ‘Aquarelle’ Rag Paper. It is a heavy stock with a nice open tooth on it. This allows the ink to sink in and play off the paper at different angles. Although minute, the textured surface, produces a richer print much like paint on a canvas.
The sizes given are for the image and there is ample white paper area around that. As it is a numbered and signed print, the signature is made under the image in pencil and traditionally is left within the matted or framed area along with some of the corresponding white paper.
When you see a Limited Edition print the bottom number indicates the total quantity of Art Prints that will be made. The top number is consecutive to the number of prints issued. The numbering will look, for instance, like this: 5/500, the 5th print made in a series of 500.
The bottom number is a good indicator to let collectors know there are only say 500 prints to be made in the edition. So you own one of 60 or 150 or 500 that number will guarantee you as the collector, of the limit of the edition and of future rarity which should translate to greater value for resale, if you desire, further down the road.
To insure that your print purchase is of lasting quality the paper is acid-free and has a 100% rag content. The Rag content, which is the cotton or linen used in making the paper, makes a stronger and more durable paper; It also indicates the best and most expensive papers made:- 100% being the highest Rag content.
Acid is the devil to paper; that’s why old manuscripts are handled with gloves. The acid will discolor and eventually destroy the document. The Arches paper we are using is certified acid free and this is supported by the ISO 9706 Standard for galleries and museum longevity for papers.
The printing is done on a high end Epson Printer, inks are guaranteed for 75 years.
If you matt your print please follow suit and use an acid free matt as that can discolor the print second hand.
Bill Osmundsen