Printers make computer-generated limited editions of original art by applying special characteristics to the reprints. The first characteristic of limited art editions is their restricted sale to consumers, as they are numbered. Before they are ordered and printed, the artist and printer decide how many of them will be available for sale and the printer publicizes the designated amount. A second characteristic of some limited editions is printer signatures. A third characteristic of some reprints is a small drawing in the reprint's margin as a form of personalization.
Issuing certificates of authenticity with limited edition giclee prints give buyers confidence in the originality of their reproductions. Certificates of authenticity provide details of the artwork and include information like the title of the print, the limited edition number, the size of the print, the date of the print and the print medium or ink type. Certificates of authenticity along with print signatures provide complete proof of print customization. Signatures are not always placed on the front of the prints; they are sometimes added at the back of prints.
Original artwork is scanned in high resolution for highly detailed image capture. Small originals sized up to 28" by 18" are scanned at their original size only. Small originals are not printed at larger sizes, preserving the accuracy of the original work. Larger prints can be downsized, however, and also printed onto canvas. Canvas prints command the highest prices, as they reproduce the original look of a canvas artwork. They are created to be framed without glass or mattboards similar to oil paintings. Reprints on paper look more like reproductions.
Art collectors who are unsure about whether to order limited edition giclee reprints because they think they are substandard may be interested to know that giclees have sold for over $20,000. They are also available for viewing at museums in most major cities. These museums purchase giclees to preserve priceless originals in cellars and other safe places. New York City's Guggenheim, Chelsea Galleries, Museum of Modern Art and Metropolitan Museum all show giclee prints. Washington, D.C.'s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and National Gallery for Women in the Arts have giclees on display. Visitors at the Louvre in Paris are often unaware that they may be looking at giclee reprints.