In printmaking, an edition is a number of prints struck from one plate, usually at the same time.
This is the meaning covered by this article. This may be a limited edition, with a fixed number of
impressions produced on the understanding that no further impressions (copies) will be produced later,
or an open edition limited only by the number that can be sold or produced before the plate wears.
Most modern artists produce only limited editions, normally signed by the artist in pencil, and
numbered as say 67/100 to show the unique number of that impression and the total edition size.
PRINT EDITIONING SERVICE
Keith Henry has experience working closely with printmakers in producing their limited edition etchings, lithographic prints and handmade paper for over 20 years He is now offering his professional, fine art printmaking editioning service to the general public. Situated in Scarborough, Ontario, Keith is able to produce any form of printing that be sent through either his 24 inch etching or 32" lithographic press.
All forms of lithographic and intaglio work can be editioned including;
Relief Plates/Blocks
(Linocut, Woodcut...)
Intaglio Plates
(Etchings, Collographs...)
Serigraphy
Embossing
Waterless Lithography
The Cost of Editioning
It is very difficult to set a price for editioning a job as each print is unique with many factors first having to be taken into consideration. The pricing for the edition service will depend on the type of printmaking process, size of the edition and nature of the print run. Supplies can be purchased at the studio or ordered in.
Proofing the Print
Keith would work together with the artist in proofing the print until a perfect control proof is made. It is essential that the artist is fully involved in the process of making the proof otherwise the process is more akin to a commercial reproduction than an original print. Exploratory use of combinations of techniques is often used. With the experience gained from the proofing sessions, an assessment can be made of the amount of time that would be required to pull a single print.
Running the Edition
Editioning is the process of producing a defined number of copies of the final print. This can be anything from under 10 up to 500 or more. If you're printing limited editions, edition sizes should be set in advance and never changed. However, it is not unusual for a printmaker to print only part of the edition initially and to print more only when these have been sold, thereby saving ink, paper, and storage costs. In this case, proofs must be kept to carefully match the earlier edition copies and notes on how the colours were mixed are essential.
Serious editioning requires the exclusive use of a press for a period of time plus a supporting processing area and drying space. As it takes some time to set up for an editioning job and to clean up afterwards, the minimum amount we would charge is three hours. It is recommended all materials are ordered and on site prior to running the addition.
If you are interested in our service then please do not hesitate to contact us. No job is too large or too small.
Keith Henry
fine art, print & papermaking studio
Email Keith Henry
Toronto, Ontario Canada
Phone: (416) 269-5618