Producing a limited edition giclee print is a great way for artists to make their art more widely available by offering affordable alternatives to more expensively priced originals. At Osio-Brown Editions, we are often asked by our clients what number they should limit their edition sizes to. Edition sizes are completely subjective. One number is no more “right” than another. The most important thing in determining your edition size, is that you—the artist—need to feel comfortable and confident with whatever number you choose.
There are, however, several guidelines you should follow with every limited edition you release.
1) Set the edition size in advance. Once you have determined the edition size make it public and NEVER change it. There is no need to print the entire edition at once. One of the greatest advantages of giclee printing is the ability to print on demand. As clients purchase prints, you can have your prints produced, signed and delivered—often times in less than one week.
One thing to keep in mind with your edition size is that people who buy limited edition prints often buy based—at least in part—on the size of the edition. Always be true to your client base. Never say one thing and then do something else. As the great sage Ron Popiel once said, "Set it, and forget it."
2) With signed limited edition prints, document every print you sell. This is a great way to make your clients feel confident about what they are buying. Include a detailed original invoice and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) with each image. Then sign and date it. Not only do buyers appreciate the documentation, but good documentation tends to increase value as well.
Adam Brown
