“Metal Print” has become common vernacular in the print industry, but it basically means an image or photo printed on metal. The metal used is typically an aluminum alloy and a special printing process is used to transfer an image onto metal.
Qualities Of A Metal Art Print
Compared to canvas or photo prints, metal art prints have several unique qualities and advantages. The most popular application for a metal print is in a business or medical office setting but they are becoming more and more popular for homes. Here are some of the reasons people choose a metal print over canvas or paper:
Durability
Metal art prints can be covered in a scratch-resistant and fade-resistant coating so prints are protected from everyday wear and tear.
- Non-porous surface
- Moisture-resistant
- UV-resistant
- Scratch-resistant
Vibrant Colors
The natural sheen of the aluminum surface allows inks to appear more luminous, creating a striking visual impact. The reflective properties of the metal enhance the colors, making them appear more vibrant and saturated.
High-Definition Detail
Because metal prints use the dye sublimation process that fuses the color directly to the metal, intricate details come through with remarkable precision in ways other mediums may struggle to reproduce.
Modern Look For Artwork
Metal prints add a contemporary look and feel to any piece of art or space. The unique reflectiveness of the aluminum and lack of a clunky frame make metal prints a modern addition to any room.
Easy To Hang
Compared to prints of comparable sizes in frames, metal prints weigh less and are easier to lift, handle and hang. Most metal prints come with some type of attachment to make them easier to hang.
Easy To Clean
Metal prints can be wiped down with common household disinfectants and cleaners and a soft cloth.
Types of Metal Prints
At Artisan, we have two types of metal prints- Dibond and ChromaLuxe.
- Dibond is a brushed aluminum metal print. Your photograph or artwork is printed directly onto the smooth metal surface using the latest UV printing technology. Any areas of your image that are a true white will reveal the raw, brushed aluminum metal surface. This gives Dibond prints a sleek, industrial look.
- ChromaLuxe metal prints use dye-sublimation to create high-definition images. The ink is fused onto the metal surface using heat and pressure. The metal print is coated with a multi-layer polymer finish resulting in a durable and vibrant piece of artwork. ChromaLuxe is the industry standard for professional photographers and artists when it comes to metal prints.
For a more detailed explanation of what metal prints are and how you can print photos on metal, read “The Ulitmate Guide to Printing On Metal”.