Services

We currently offer a wide variety of media for fine art printmaking and display printing and we are always open to new media requests. If your project warrants it, we would be glad to bring in and test a sample roll of your media of choice.

In addition to our printing services, we offer hi-resolution scanning, direct digital capture, tradeshow & exhibition printing, mounting & laminating, and canvas stretching.

The Process

Step 1 - Image Capture

In order to begin the giclée process, we first need to have your film or artwork scanned into the computer for reproduction.

Custom hi-resolution scans can be taken from transparencies, negatives, or unmounted flat art. Scanning prices are based on the size of your original and the resulting file size, so please indicate the original and final output dimensions and recommended resolution.

For the best results from original artwork, digital copying can be done directly from originals up to 48"x72". Please see the Scanning Calculator for pricing.

Step 2 - Calibration

Once your image has be digitally captured, we need to do some critical colour corrections that will allow us to match your image as close as possible. We cannot guarantee an exact match, but we will do everything possible to bring your images to life.

Using Adobe Photoshop, we will make all of the necessary adjustments to match the density, contrast, saturation, and overall colour balance. If you would like us to enhance or change any specific colours, we can manipulate your image to make the most of the process. Please see the Enhancement Pricing for more details.

Step 3 - Proofing

In order to fine tune your image for final reproduction, we typically run 3 to 4 smaller tests to help make the appropriate adjustments required to compensate for variables specific to each media.

Using the latest technology in Colour Management, media profiling assists in the change from one media to another, though sometimes additional testing may still be necessary.

If you supply a digital file for reproduction, please provide a hard copy print for colour reference and budget at least 2 to 3 tests for colour proofing.

Step 4 - Approval

Before the final reproduction of your image can commence, we require all client's to sign-off on their approved test. You will also be asked to decide whether or not you would like to save a digital copy at Fidelis for future printing.

Since there is no charge for archiving, we recommend that all clients provide a recordable CD-R with their order to create a secondary back-up of their own.

Step 5 - Final Printing

Once we receive your signed approval, we will begin outputing your final prints.

Depending on the quantity of prints ordered, it typically takes 24 to 48 hours for the ink to out-gas. During this period, prints are the most susceptible to handling and scuffing. Clear coating is NOT optional for canvas output, so please allow an additional 24 hours for drying.

We strongly suggest that you allow a minimum of 72 hours before prints are framed behind glass.

Step 6 - Shipping

Following the recommended drying time, we will take care of any special shipping requests and package your prints accordingly.

Unless you need to have your prints sent to you to personally sign, we will coordinate to have FedEx, UPS or regular post take care of your shipping needs. Billing for special deliveries are subject to change once the official statements have come through.

We suggest that you arrange for your own deliveries, so that your invoice will be final at the time of pick-up.

Step 7 - Re-Ordering

The easiest step of the giclée process is re-ordering. As a convenience to you, we will save a digital copy of requested images on file for future printing.

The best part about printing on-demand is that you should never have to worry about covering the costs of production or keeping inventory around for future orders. When an order comes in, you should always be collecting payment from your buyer in advance. This in turn, will allow you to meet our terms of 50% at the time of order and full payment at the time of pick-up.

Our goal at Fidelis is to meet your demand by supplying you with the highest quality printmaking, without compromising the integrity of the process.

The Technology

Pigment-Based Inks

Pigment-based inks are much more resistant to UV light than dye-based inks. They were originally developed for outdoor use and will keep their original colors considerably longer. They are also less likely to run if they come into contact with water.

Images printed with pigment-based inks on to archival paper have the potential of lasting well over 100 years if stored under the proper conditions.

Roland Hi-Fi Pro

According to the Giclée Printers Association (GPA), the Roland is one of only a few printers to be deemed acceptable for true giclée quality. With there being a number of printers now able to output using pigment-based inks on archival papers, it has become difficult to assure the same high quality between suppliers.

With the new GPA established standards, you will now have the confidence to know that only peace of mind and the highest quality are in front of you at Fidelis.

Epson Stylus Pro

In order to ensure the same high quality is also maintained for your BW images, we have replaced the 6 colour inks in our Epson 9500 with specially formulated pigment-based inks which now contain 6 shades of black. By eliminating the hue shifts introduced by the colour pigments in a full colour BW print, it is now possible to get a near continuous-tone BW giclée that doesn't shift under different light sources. The black to white range is increased and the visible dots are greatly reduced, if not eliminated.

Our Hextone process provides the longevity and quality of a true giclée with the look and feel of a traditional fibre-based BW photographic print.

Special Note: Hextone inks are only suitable for uncoated 100% cotton media.

The Materials

Premium Artist Canvas

Recommended for photographic, fine art, and museum quality reproductions. Made from the highest quality cotton duck fabric, this heavyweight canvas is the best all around canvas on the market. Soft white, pH neutral, acid free, and 100% cotton canvas. Over 100 years longevity.

Special Note: Clear coating is NOT optional for canvas output, though it is listed separately in the Price Calculator for other media options.

Available up to 52” wide (51.25” printable) by any length.

Arches - Textured and Smooth

Recommended for photographic, fine art, and museum quality reproductions. "Arches" has been a familiar name to traditional artists for years and now they have brought the same distintive textures found in their Arches Cold Press to the digital fine art world. Soft white, pH neutral, acid free, and 100% cotton textured and smooth watercolour papers. Over 100 years longevity.

Available up to 44” wide (43.25” printable) by any length.

Photo Matte and Gloss

Recommended for photographic, fine art, and museum quality reproductions. Bright white, pH neutral, acid free, and 100% cotton flat matte and resin coated papers. Over 100 years longevity.

Available up to 44” wide (43.25” printable) by any length.

Epson - Photo Lustre

Recommended for portraits and weddings photographers, this media offers the closest feel to traditional photographic lustre paper. A favourite for photo-based artists printing with higher quality Epson desktop printers. Bright white, pH neutral, acid free, and 100% cotton resin coated paper. Over 100 years longevity.

Available up to 44” wide (43.25” printable) by any length.

Polychrome

Recommended for photo-based artists, this media is the perfect replacement to a traditional "Cibachrome" print. With exceptional dot definition, this media yields excellent contrast, deep blacks and vibrant colours. Super high-gloss, brilliant white, pH neutral, acid free, and 100% white polyester film. Over 100 years longevity.

Special Note: Like Cibachrome prints, extra care should be taken to avoid contact with the surface of your print. Always handle the print by the borders or while wearing cotton gloves. Due to the super high-gloss surface, it shows fingerprints and scratches easily.

Available up to 54” wide (53.25” printable) by any length.

Decor Canvas

Recommended for interior design, hospitality, restaurants, and other commercial reproductions. Made from the highest quality cotton duck fabric, this heavyweight canvas is designed for applications where the best longvity is not required. Soft white. 25 to 30 years longevity.

Special Note: Clear coating is NOT optional for canvas output, though it is listed separately in the Price Calculator for other media options.

Available up to 54” wide (53.25” printable) by any length.

Waterproof Canvas

Recommended for interior design, hospitality, restaurants, and other commercial reproductions. Made from the highest quality cotton duck fabric, this heavyweight canvas is designed for applications where the best longvity is not required. Soft white. 25 to 30 years longevity.

Special Note: Clear coating is NOT REQUIRED for this canvas output, since it is waterproof.

Available up to 54” wide (53.25” printable) by any length.

Epson - Enhanced Matte

Recommended for photographic and poster art reprductions. This flat matte paper is designed for applications where the best longvity is not required. Bright white, pH neutral, acid free, but NOT 100% cotton. 25 to 30 years longevity.

Available up to 44” wide (43.25” printable) by any length.

Display Gloss

Recommended for digital photographs, indoor posters, promotional pieces, layouts, and portfolio images. Resin coated, photo gloss paper. 5 to 10 years longevity for indoor use only.

Available up to 54” wide (53.25” printable) by any length.

Synthetic Adhesive

Recommended for posters, retail and window displays as well as any wall covering that need to be easily removed. This polypropylene paper has a low tack, pressure-sensitive adhesive that will NOT damage your walls or leave any residue. Can be used indoors and outdoors for short-term usage.

Available up to 50” wide (49.25” printable) by any length.

Scrim Banner Vinyl

Recommended for tradeshows or any commercial application. This polyester scrim is sandwiched between two layers of PVC. It has excellent drape and delivers high opacity to block distracting light and shadows. Can be sewn or grommeted. Rated for 6 months outdoors without lamination.

Available up to 50” wide (49.25” printable) by any length.

Polycarbonate Film

Recommended for tradeshows or any commercial application. This polycarbonate film, when combined with a white vinyl backer, will result in durable trade show graphics, even after being rolled and unrolled for transport. Rated for 1 year indoors.

Available up to 50” wide (49.25” printable) by any length.

Backlit Film

Recommended for any commercial application. This new front print lightbox film allows the image to be printed on the front instead of the back, so it provides excellent front and backlit display. It offers moisture and scratch resistance, plus a higher ink density. Rated for 1 year outdoors under glass.

Available up to 50” wide (49.25” printable) by any length.

Finishing Options

Clear Coating

Recommended for photographic and fine art reproductions that are going to be displayed without glass. In order to protect the water soluble inks from the environmental contaminents, clear coating is essential.

Clear coating provides the necessary surface protection as well as a 99% UV block. It also provides sufficient protection for post embelishing or print enhancement on either the Bulldog canvas or Arches papers.

Clear coating is NOT optional for canvas output, though it is listed separately in the Price Calculator for other media options.

Available in gloss, semi-gloss, and matte surfaces. Our spray booth can accomodate prints up to 90” high by 108" wide.

Stretching

Depending on how you're going to display your canvas reproduction, with framing or hung stretched as is, your options for stretching need to be considered before final printing.

Plain white or coloured borders are available for 3/4" or 1-1/2" depths. Custom depths are available upon special request.

Mounting

Mounting services are available on a variety of different surfaces, though our Ultramount is the only archival mount board we recommend for true giclées.

Sintra and regular Ultrafoam are also available, though they are primarily used for non-archival commercial projects.

Both white and black surfaces are available in 3/16" and 1/2" thcknesses up to 48” wide x 96" in length. All Black and 1/2" mount boards are only available upon special request.

Laminating

Laminating services are also available, though to not jeopardize the archival properties that make up a true giclée, lamination is not recommended on any archival media.

Both gloss and lustre finishes are available up to 51” wide by any length.