…There’s more to it.

What is an archival print?

PAPER
There is a misconception that an archival print simply means that the paper used for printing is acid free. The reality is that a paper needs to have qualities that keep it from breaking down as well as keep its original brightness and whiteness over time for future viewers to enjoy with the same visual appearance as the day it was printed. For this, the paper base needs to be manufactured of either 100% cotton fibre, 100% alpha cellulose fibre, or a combination of the two materials. This will ensure that the paper base is pH 7 or above, which classifies it as being acid free. additionally, for an inkjet paper to be printed on, it will need a coating applied to the paper base that will absorb just the right amount of ink dotted down by the printer. These coatings need to be as close to acid neutral as possible to keep the overall pH level of the paper within certain tolerances. Furthermore, the paper used for the print needs to be free of any OBA’s (Optical Brightening Agents) that cause the paper’s white surface to slightly darken over time.

INK
The ink used will also determine how long a print will last in time. Dye inks can be used for inkjet printing as well as pigment inks. The Dye inks can have a wider color gamut (range of color reproducible) than pigment inks but are known to fade faster over time than pigment inks exposed to the same conditions.

PRINT CARE
Finally think about how your prints are displayed and within which types of materials. Papers can absorb chemicals from their environment. When mounting prints for framing, it is important that any tapes, glues, mats and mounting boards are acid free. UV light can have a negative effect on print longevity and quality, as well as temperature and humidity levels. Ideal conditions for inkjet prints are between 15°C and 20°C with a relative humidity level of 40-60%

As artists, it is important for us to offer value in the way of the archival print for future generations to enjoy.