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Canvas Type
We use industry-leading, brand name products. We are proud to tell you what types of materials we use because they are used all around the world and are independently tested by Wilhelm Research to last 100+ years.
If the canvas is an unknown brand or it hasn't been independently fade-tested, then how can you know any good? Would you buy a set of speakers without knowing the brand?
Canvases of unknown brand, origin or construction may be prone to fading over time or even yellowing over time.
We offer the choice of either the Canson Artist canvas which is Poly / Cotton or you can upgrade to the Canson Museum 100% cotton canvas. The Poly / Cotton canvas is 390gsm whereas the 100% cotton canvas is a massive 440gsm.
So not only do we use a brand-name canvas, that's independently tested, it's weight (gsm) is much higher than many other canvases on the market meaning it's going to last.
Glossy canvas is another one to look out for. It looks tacky but some use it because they think they can get away without laminating it. A non-glossed canvas with laminate will always give a superior end result.
Below is a quick comparison between the two canvases that we offer:
Canson Artist, Archival Poly / Cotton:
This OBA-free archival canvas is capable of producing extremely precise images with very high resolution on a reflective-free surface. The canvas will not yellow, crack or curl and is an ideal choice for a variety of applications including portraiture, fine art photography and demanding giclée requirements.
More smooth, uniform weave than 100% cotton
Less likely to stretch or sag than 100% cotton
Best suited to standard photographic images
Canson Museum, Archival 100% Cotton:
The premium, OBA-free archival canvas is the optimal choice for a variety of giclée applications for artists who demand modern technical excellence in concert with the texture, feel and body that only an all-cotton canvas can deliver.
Costs 10.00% more than the Poly / Cotton canvas
More 'authentic' or 'traditional' look than poly / cotton
Rougher and less uniform weave compared to poly / cotton
Best suited to artistic, photographic / illustrative reproductions
So why do I hear that 100% cotton is better than poly / cotton?
It's common to hear that a 100% cotton canvas is better than a poly/cotton blend. It's really a matter of opinion and application.
Unfortunately, there are many CHEAP poly/cotton blends out there and those canvases are really the bad apple that ruined the cart, with customers demanding 100% cotton for fear of getting a cheap poly/cotton blend. A HIGH QUALITY poly/cotton blend that is OBA-free and independently tested for archival quality is just as good as a high quality 100% cotton canvas.
As you can see above, a good rule to use is if you're printing any kind of image that is more an 'artwork' than a 'photograph', use 100% cotton because it looks more authentic. If you're printing an 'every day' photo, use poly/cotton because the texture is not as great in poly/cotton and you'll see more detail in the image.
Whichever canvas you decide on, you can be assured they are canvases used in museums and galleries around the world. They are both bright white and water resistant and both rated for 100+ years longevity. You can visit the Canson web site to read more if you like.
Still unsure?
Take a look at our Professional Service, where you can speak directly to a specialist, upload your photo and discuss in depth which canvas type will best suit your needs. We can even print a portion of your image on both canvas types so you can see the difference for yourself.
They look the same here, but we offer a range of canvas types.
The poly / cotton canvas has a more uniform texture - great for photographs
The 100% Cotton Museum canvas is great for artwork reproductions
