TL;DR: Art prints are printed on paper and framed under glass, while canvas prints are printed on textured canvas and stretched over a wooden frame. Each has unique benefits for presentation, durability, and style.
Congratulations on taking the next step toward printing your artwork or photography. Choosing the right print type is one of the most important decisions in showcasing your work. The right format affects how your art is displayed, shipped, and sold.
This guide explains the main differences between art printing and canvas printing so you can decide which best fits your goals and creative vision.
What is an art print?
An art print is a high-quality reproduction of an original artwork printed on fine art paper. At The Stackhouse Printery, our Giclée Fine Art Prints are created using museum-grade cotton papers and archival pigment inks for exceptional color accuracy and longevity. Art prints often include a white border for framing, but this is optional depending on the look you want to achieve.
What is a canvas print?
A canvas print is an image printed directly onto a canvas material, often stretched over a wooden frame. The texture of the canvas gives it a dimensional, painterly feel that closely resembles traditional artwork. You can choose from Loose Canvas Prints for framing flexibility or Gallery Wrapped Canvas Prints for a ready-to-hang presentation.
The medium
Art prints are produced on fine art paper using advanced giclée inkjet printing. Our archival-grade papers are acid-free and designed for fade resistance, making them ideal for galleries and collectors. Canvas prints use the same inkjet technology but on a different surface, offering a more tactile, painterly texture that enhances visual depth.
Texture and appearance
Fine art papers provide a smooth, matte, or slightly textured finish depending on the paper choice. This results in crisp, detailed prints. Canvas, on the other hand, adds dimension and texture, giving prints a softer and more organic look. Many artists choose canvas to give their work a hand-painted appearance or to complement modern interiors. To explore paper textures, view our Free Media Sample Set.
Framing options
Art prints are typically framed under glass or acrylic for protection. This creates a traditional, refined look but can add reflections. Canvas prints are stretched over wooden frames, often with the image wrapping around the edges for a gallery-style finish. They do not require glass, making them lightweight and easy to display.
Durability
Both art and canvas prints are long-lasting when made with archival materials. However, canvas tends to be more durable in everyday environments because it resists creasing and tearing. Fine art paper prints, when framed correctly, can last for decades but require more care during handling and display. Learn more about care and preservation in our Print Care Guide.
Artistic presentation
Art prints provide a classic, gallery-ready appearance that emphasizes fine detail and crisp tonal transitions. Canvas prints offer a more contemporary and three-dimensional presentation. Your choice comes down to your artistic style, display environment, and desired visual impact.
The Stackhouse difference
At The Stackhouse Printery, we produce both Fine Art Prints and Canvas Prints using archival pigment inks and museum-quality materials. Whether you prefer the refined look of paper or the textured depth of canvas, our team ensures your prints meet professional standards for color accuracy, detail, and longevity.
Still deciding which option is best for you? Request a Free Media Sample Set to compare our paper and canvas surfaces before you print.
