Canvas Art Prints

Abstract Prints A colorful collage of nine abstract paintings. These canvas transfers are yours to arrange any way you want—from Horchow.

Canvas art prints, transfers and giclée on canvas look like an original painting for a fraction of the cost. These three processes are distinctly different and result in artwork that has unique characteristics.

Three Print Options:

Giclee on Canvas : A giclee on canvas is created when ink is applied directly to canvas using a high-resolution ink-jet printer.

Canvas Print : A canvas print is created when inks are applied directly to canvas using offset printing techniques. Visit Art Gazebo for an excellent selection of contemporary and masters Canvas Prints.

Canvas Transfer : A canvas transfer, however, is created when the image is literally "lifted" from a paper print, such as a poster or limited-edition print, and transferred to a canvas substrate.

Special chemicals are used to separate the ink from a paper print. This ink is put down in layers to canvas and the canvas is then seal coated with a UV protective varnish to keep the inks from running when they come into contact with water.

What distinguishes a canvas transfer from other prints on canvas is its texture, which often gives it an closer resemblance to the original painting. In addition, brushstrokes are often added to enhance the image and mimic the look of an original painting.

A transfer can be created through a hot-transfer method, in which the image is lifted off its paper backing using a special laminate and transferred to a canvas substrate with a heat press. Or, a transfer can be made using a cold transfer method, in which the image on paper is sprayed with a solution, soaked in water, peeled from the substrate and hand-rubbed onto a canvas surface.

Canvas transfer art is generally very durable. They require the same basic care that you would give any other quality print. As with any artwork, canvas transfers should be kept out of direct sunlight. Unlike a print, you can clean the surface of varnished canvas transfers with mild soap and water or glass cleaner. With these basic precautions, your canvas transfer will last a lifetime.