FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Giclée Definition
Giclée (“zhee-clay”) from French meaning to spray ink or other liquid. It is the invented name for the process of making fine art prints from a digital source. Our prints are made using this method with state of the art digital technology on 100% acid free archival quality art papers using light fast inks.
How good is your printing?
We believe our prints to be of the absolute highest quality, in fact we can print up to 800 dots per inch (dpi), though normal high quality printing would be around 300 dpi (The naked eye can only view screen dots up to about 200 dpi). 300 dpi is our standard setting but we can print higher if required.
In fact, we are so confident about the quality of our printing that we guarantee that if you are not satisfied then you pay nothing!
TURNAROUND TIMES
Giclée prints: 1-2 days for print-ready files.
Artwork Reproduction: 4-7 days depending on circumstances.
Greetings cards 6-8 days for proofs and 7-10 days for printing.
In our busier periods (eg. approaching Christmas, art trails, or major exhibitions) this may extend to longer lead times. If you require printing around such times, please avoid ordering at the last minute in order to avoid disappointment.
Can you match colours exactly to my original artwork?
When reproducing artwork we focus on accurately matching your original, we use colour a colour calibration system between our camera and iMac, and calibrated screens to view your artwork before it is proofed. Artwork reproduction costs include ownership of the digital file, so we will send you a full copy of your images once the work is complete.
What is your minimum order?
Our minimum order for cards is 250 total (minimum per design is 25), however, do talk with us if you would like to discuss lower quantities to begin with. We have no minimum order for Giclee prints and reproduction.
How much are your delivery charges?
Our standard postal charge varies between £5 and £15 for the Royal Mail First Class service, alternative postage requirements will vary, such as international post or particularly large orders. If you are able to collect your work, you can arrange a time to collect from the studio in Bristol. For larger orders we may offer free doorstep delivery within the Bristol area. Please get in contact with us for a personal quote on postage.
How light fast are your prints?
The inks we use are designed to be light fast for around 85 years, however we do not recommend exposure to direct sunlight (UV light) for lengthy periods e.g a conservatory space or sunny window, under certain conditions, it is possible they can be light fast for up to 100 years.
What is the largest size you can print?
A1 which is 594mm x 840mm (24″ x 40″), the printing machine we use is roll fed.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
2. Refund/Cancellation Policy – Once proofs have been approved and print has been ordered there is no refund except if your goods are damaged in transit or printing does not match the proofs that have been approved. In the unlikely event that a mistake is discovered after the prints have left our studio, we allow four weeks for this to be brought to our attention in order for us to correct it.
3. Payment is required with order upon approval of proofs, either hard copies or electronic pdf files. Our preferred method is via bank transfer, credit/debit card or cash. We do not accept payment by cheque.
Doubts about your files? Visit our Artwork Requirements for more information.
Please note: Our old email (mockingbirdpress@hotmail.co.uk) is no longer available