Should I Order a Canvas or a Paper Print?

To help you select between paper or canvas prints, we have listed some advantages and disadvantages of both:

Advantages of Paper Prints

Paper prints have various advantages. Traditional and versatile, they have been used for centuries in homes, offices and other spaces. They can be used for any type of picture and photography.

Paper prints are waterproof because of the glass cover. They will not get ruined easily due to negligence. They are also scratch proof and good for rough use, but the glass may break and the print might fade if exposed to direct sunlight.

There are different kinds and varieties of print paper available for your selection including cotton based and fiber paper among others. Choose whatever suits your style and fancy!

Paper prints also exhibit more details and colors because paper isn’t textured unlike canvas print.

Disadvantages of Paper Prints

Paper prints are glaring and reflective. Not just the print itself, but the glass reflects any light source. This creates a glare that blocks the view of the photograph, making it uncomfortable for anyone to look at it.

Paper print photographs can get expensive larger sizes are generally far more costly to print. If you have a big space available and wish to present large pictures, paper prints may not be appropriate choice for you.

Another disadvantage of paper print is that their frame needs to match the décor and color scheme of the room that you choose to display your photograph in.

Lastly, paper prints are too commonplace. They are found in every home and office. They don’t have that “wow” factor. If you want to go for something artsy and attractive, paper prints are probably not the way to go.

Advantage of Canvas Prints

Canvas prints are non-reflective and have a matte finish. They are a great choice for professional photography. They can be placed anywhere in the house. You don’t need to be too strategic.

Canvas prints are modern and classy. They haven’t been overused by the masses and will surely catch the eye in any space and place.

Larger canvas sizes are economical, which is great if you want to fill up a space on your wall. They cost less than a paper print of the same size, but that is only true for larger sizes.

Canvas prints create a painting like affect and a frameless presentation that blends into any surrounding. Your print will be mounted on a wooden frame and the canvas will be stretched over it and secured with nails or staples. You can always choose a wooden border, but it’s not a necessity.

Canvas frames are durable and will last generations as a family heirloom. Unlike paper prints, they’re not feeble or easily destroyed. They will last decades, which means the cost will pay off. 

Disadvantages of Canvas Prints

They aren’t waterproof but may be water resistant. They’re not scratchproof either, which means you can’t hang them in your toddler’s reach.

Too put it simply, they are expensive.

These factors may help you finalize your decision, but it is really your choice, taste and particular need that will determine whether you should order paper print or canvas.