Giclee Printing
All our prints are produced with a 44 inch Epson SureColor P 9000 printer that uses the archival Epson UltraChrome HDX ten-colour pigmented ink set. We print on a selection of materials that are individually profiled using the Xrite EyeOne calibration tool. Scroll down for details of the materials we use. Additionally, colour accuracy is determined using a GTI Print Viewer with day light balanced bulbs.
At QSQ we have a controlled colour environment and a highly qualified production staff attending to your artwork. For your convenience, we offer optional file storage and digital copy work.
QSQ has a great combination of products, technology, and staff that ensure consistent quality results.
The Process
To begin the process we need the image in our system. You can either send us a digital image by email, or any other internet data trasfer service. Alternatively, you can bring the image with you to our store.
For a better result we recommend an image already scaled to the desired size and a resolution of 300 dpi. However, if your image needs rescaling, we will be happy to do it free of charge.
If your image or artwork needs to be digitized, QSQ offers custom hi-resolution scans from transparencies, negatives, or unmounted flat art. Scanning prices are based on the size of your original and the resulting file size (in MB).
This phase includes the cropping, resizing, and/or color correction of your image if required. This service is included in the price and is done in order to match your image to the original artwork as close as possible. We cannot guarantee an exact match, but we will do everything possible to bring your images to life.
If your image needs a major photoshop work, we also offer the service of Photoretouch, Photorestoration, Editing and Major colour correction.
When printing artwork on paper (Luster or Matte), we offer an extra 0.25″ of white border at your request. When printing on Canvas, we add 2″ around for stretching purposes.
Once the image is completely adjusted, we apply the proper profile depending on the paper desired. This process allows us to see exactly how the final printing is going to look on the surface selected (Canvas, Luster, Matte, etc…).
When all the above is ready, we begin the printing process.
If printing on paper, we offer between 24 to 48 hours turn around time, depending on the quantity of images ordered. However, if the prints are going to be framed behind glass, we strongly suggest a minimum waiting period of 48 to 72 hours to allow chemicals from the print to dry out.
When printing on canvas that need to be stretched, the turn around time depends on the size of the stretcher, but we still strive to have your order ready within 2 to 5 business days.
Printing on paper? QSQ offers the option of Foam Core and Matboard mounting if you are not going to frame your prints.
Printing on canvas? We offer stretching!
We stretch our printed canvas on site, and we use custom-made stretchers from a local workshop if you need uncommon sizes.
Depending on how you wish to display your canvas (e.g. with framing or stretched as is), your options for stretching need to be considered before printing. That is why we recommend any of these four options: clone around, wrap-around, and colour borders.
Please, let us know what finish you would like for your canvas when placing your order.
We also offer a clear coating of your prints. This coating provides a 99% UV block as well as the necessary surface protection. It also provides sufficient protection for post embellishing or print enhancement. This coating is recommended for photographic and fine art reproductions that are going to be displayed without glass.
At this point, your print is ready for pick-up.
We suggest that you pick-up your prints in person, so that you have time to appreciate the finished product.
If picking up in person is not an option, we offer shipping within Canada, but only for prints on paper or unstretched canvas. However, we assess the shipping option on a case by case basis. Billing for special deliveries are subject to change once the official statements have come through.
Epson Technology
To produce our archival prints with amazing colour integrity, gloss-level, and scratch resistance we use Epson SureColor P 9000.
Representing Epson’s next generation, this printer incorporates the latest achievements in photographic ink jet technology. By combining the Epson TFP PrecisionCore printhead with the 10-colour Epson UltraChrome® HDX ink set, the this printer continue to represent a high level of technology that bring new heights to artwork reproduction.
The Epson UltraChrome® HDX pigment ink technology represents the latest generation of pigment ink technology. Now using 10 colours (photo black and matte black, light black, light light black, cyan, light cyan, vivid magenta, vivid light magenta, yellow, orange, and green), the Ultrachrome HDX ink set produces the widest colour gamut ever from an Epson Pro printer.
The Materials
Exceptionally high Dmax and wide colour gamut.
Heavyweight cotton-poly blend stock.
Acid and Lignin free to preserve fine arts and photos.
Enhanced with elastic polymers for gallery wrap stretching without cracking.
Exceptionally high Dmax and wide colour gamut.
Heavyweight cotton-poly blend stock.
Acid and Lignin free to preserve fine arts and photos.
Enhanced with elastic polymers for gallery wrap stretching without cracking.
Velvet surface for fine detail and accurate reproduction.
Acid free to preserve fine art and photos.
100% cotton rag for long term durability
Outstanding D-Max for print with exceptional contrast.
Mould-made in the traditional style.
Acid, lignin, chlorine free; and pH buffered to preserve fine art and photos.
High Dmax and wide colour gamut.
Bright white base.
Mould-made in the traditional style.
Acid and lignin free and pH buffered to preserve fine art and photos.
High Dmax and wide colour gamut.
Bright white base.
*Additional Papers are available upon request.
Luster “E” surface finish.
Dries instantly for easy handling with Epson inks.
Highest colour gamut available for vivid colour reproduction.
10 mil thickness for accurate photographic feel.
Flat matte surface provides the optimum photographic platform.
Heavyweight stock delivers true photographic feel.
High colour gamut yields remarkable colour reproduction.
Epson Archival Ink compatibility ensures exceptional lightfastness ratings.
Scanning and Reproduction
Our approach to High resolution scanning is not about the number of scans per minute, it’s about scanning each image correctly. The original scan must take into consideration: hue, contrast, exposure and resolution. Our Epson Perfection V600 Photo scanner gives us the opportunity, not only to scan from transparencies, negatives, photographic prints or original artworks, but also to offer extraordinary quality and versatility with 6400 x 9600 dpi resolution.
QSQ is proud to have highly qualified professionals with extensive experience (more than 20 years) on image processing. Lead by a Designer by career, and a visual artist at heart, QSQ offers to process your image from the very beginning (RAW file proccesing, Photo-Retouch, Photo-Restoration, Colour Correction and/or Editing) until you have it on hand.
