Metal Prints FAQs - SanAntonio Printing On Canvas & Fine Art Prints, Custom Picture Framing, Plaque Mounting, Metal, Wood & Fabric Dye-sublimation

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1 : How are my metal prints created?
Depending on the method you select, your print may be created using the Dye Sublimation method, or a dry-mounting method.

In the former, the inks are transferred directly into the metal sheet. In the latter process, a paper print is affixed to a sheet of aluminium di-bond using a heat-sensitive adhesive tissue.

To learn more about these techniques, please read our Metal Prints article.

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Q2 : Can my metal print be displayed outside?
A dye sublimation metal print can be hung outside, so long as it is sheltered from interaction with the elements. Excessive direct sunlight may result in fading, and while the image cannot be washed out by precipitation, it is possible for the aluminium to rust.

A paper print dry-mounted on di-bond aluminium composite should not be hung outdoors.

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Q3 : How do I hang my metal print?
Most of our metal prints are hung using a "float" mount system. This is metal or wood frame that is affixed to the back of the metal plate, and sits in a few inches from the corners of the print. The hanger or wire is attached to this mount, giving your print a frameless, floating appearance when hung on the wall.

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Q4 : How do I clean my metal print?
You should never need more than a soft cloth and water to clean your print. Remove dust and slight smudges with a dry microfiber or soft cotton cloth. For more stubborn splashes or spills, wet the cloth with warm water and rub gently.

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Q5 : Can I order a custom-sized metal print?
If you are ordering a paper print dry mounted on Di Bond aluminium, you can order any size you like, up to 72 x 48 inches - this is the size of our heat press, which is required to create the dry mount.

Dye sublimation prints are only available on standard sizes, since the metal is specially coated and cut prior at the manufacturer before we receive it.

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Q6 : What will my metal print look like?
Dye sublimation involves infusing your image into the metal itself. This means the metal is the base of your image, not paper. Our white-coated metal plates will create images very similar to paper prints, though dye sublimation does tend to produce very vibrant colors.

Clear-coated metal plates are also available. Since no white ink is used to print your image, pictures placed on this brushed silver surface will have an artsy, industrial effect, with the formerly white areas now becoming brushed silver.

Regardless of which metal style you choose, your metal print will remain just like new for years with our high quality inks and sublimation products.

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Q7 : What are my options for displaying my metal print?
We offer a float mount backing that gives your print the illusion of floating off the wall. Alternately, if you prefer to display your print on a tabletop, we can attach an easel stand that will allow the print to be propped up just like a traditional portrait frame.

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Q8 : How long will my metal print last?
As long as your print is kept out of direct sunlight (which may cause it to fade), it should last for many generations. The metal should not degrade over time, and the inks used are of a superior quality meant to last.

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Q9 : Do I have to order a color photo for my metal print?
Absolutely not! Metal prints look great with a wide range of photos - basically anything you would print on paper. A black and white or greyscale photograph will have wonderful contrast and color images will pop with enhanced vibrancy. Even old sepia photos will look wonderful as metal prints.

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Q10 : What finishes are available for metal prints?
Much like paper prints, dye sublimation metal surfaces have a variety of finishes. We offer gloss, matte, and semi-gloss finishes for our white-coated metal plates, and gloss and matte finishes for our clear-coated metal plates.

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If you don't find the answer you're looking for here, please contact us.