Canvas Coatings FAQs - Boston Printing On Canvas & Fine Art Prints, Custom Picture Framing, Plaque Mounting, Metal, Wood & Fabric Dye-sublimation

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1 : I just want a normal canvas print. What coating do I select?
A regular canvas print will automatically have our ClearShield Canvas Guard coating. Without this coating, the inks can be easily scratched off the surface of the canvas, so this application is essential. The ClearShield coating will add a semi-gloss sheen to your print, which brightens colors and protects, but does not alter the feel of the canvas. Order online: ClearShield Canvas Guard, bulk

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Q2 : Can I add my own coating to my canvas print?
It is certainly possible to add your own coating to your print once you have received it. However, since the print will already be coated with our ClearShield canvas guard (unless otherwise requested, which is not recommended), it is a good idea to speak with our technician about the type of coating you intend to use. If there is a concern that it may interfere with our coating, we are happy to supply you with a sample piece to test.

Order online: ClearShield canvas coating. Acrylic gel medium will be available for purchase soon.

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Q3 : Can I get a canvas print with a hard surface?
Resin is the coating for you, in this case. When set, a resin coating is as hard and protective as fifty layers of varnish. It dries crystal clear and because it is applied directly to your print, it adds saturation to the colors and creates a three-dimensional effect. Your canvas will be hard to the touch. Order online to DIY: EX-74 Epoxy Resin

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Q4 : I need a reproduction printed, but I don't want to lose the original texture of the painted brush strokes.
Gel embellishment is the best way to enhance a canvas reproduction of a painting. By brushing this clear gel over the image in the same direction as the original brush strokes, the print becomes an original of its own.

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Q5 : What is the difference between your resin and gel coatings?
Resin dries very hard, with a crystal clear, high gloss finish that enhances the color of your image and gives it a three dimensional look. The coating can be anywhere from 1/8" to 1/4" or thicker, depending on the number of coats you want. When dry, resin is has a similar effect to 50 layers of varnish.

A gel coating gives dimension and texture to your print, but maintains the flexibility of the canvas. Depending on how it is applied, gel embellishment can mimic the original brush strokes from a painting, or highlight significant areas with added depth. Like resin, gel medium dries to a gloss finish (though matte finishes do exist).

Visit our Canvas Print Coatings page for a comprehensive comparison.

Order online: Epoxy Resin, bulk. Acrylic gel medium will be available for purchase soon.

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Q6 : What is ClearShield Canvas Guard?
ClearShield canvas guard is a protective coating that is formulated specifically for Giclée canvas prints. It does not inhibit the flexibility of the canvas, allowing the prints to be sprayed prior to stretching. It contains UV-inhibitors, just like the ink, that prevent fading or yellowing over time. The coating also protects from scratches and scuffs, and enhances the color and brilliance of the image. Order online: Clearshield Canvas Guard

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Q7 : Can I order a canvas print with absolutely no coatings at all?
It is possible to order your print with no coatings including the ClearShield canvas guard. However, without this basic coating, the inks on the canvas will scratch off very easily, even just during shipping. If you decide on no coating, we recommend having your prints rolled (instead of stretched) for extra protection. We cannot guarantee an uncoated canvas will not arrive scratched.

If you plan to paint on your canvas print, the ClearShield coating will not be a problem for acrylic or oil paints.

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Q8 : I want to buy my own ClearShield Canvas Guard. What are the limitations?
Because ClearShield canvas guard is water-based, it can't be used to coat water-sensitive products, or those that already resist water. For example, silicone surfaces cannot be coated with ClearShield. Order online: ClearShield Canvas Guard.

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