What Is the Difference Between a Giclee & Serigraph?

Artists and photographers use a variety of printing methods to reproduce their original works. Giclees and serigraphs are two popular choices for high quality, fine art prints. Paintings, drawings and photographs can be reproduced in small or large editions.

Giclee

• The giclee printmaking method uses an ink-jet printer to reproduce a digital photograph of the original artwork or photograph. The word giclee originates from a French word meaning "sprayed ink." A good quality giclee print reproduces the fine details of the original artwork. Giclee prints can be in full color or black and white, and can be printed on paper or canvas.

Serigraph

• A serigraph is a print made by using a silkscreen method. Silkscreen printing involves stretching a mesh cloth over a wooden frame, blocking out the design with a stencil or a glue sizing, and using a squeegee to force the ink through the holes in the cloth. Serigraphs can be printed on paper or fabric.

Considerations

• Costs of giclee and serigraph printing methods vary. Artists can make one print at a time, a limited edition or an unlimited edition of their work. Artists who make their own giclees on an inkjet printer should use high quality ink and paper to ensure the prints will last for many years without fading. Commercial giclee and serigraph printers' prices are based on the size of the rendering and the type and quality of materials used for printing.