Why Are Framed Prints So Expensive?

It’s a myth that getting top-quality framed prints will be expensive. And I’ll admit that some companies do charge quite a bit (maybe too much) for their framed prints.

But, high-quality framed prints don’t actually have to be that expensive, as you’ll see on websites like iCanvas, Redbubble, and Society6.

Here are some factors that will increase the price (and value):

• Top-Quality Materials: Uses high-quality printers and the finest materials (archival papers/inks/matting & premium wood frames) that will make your print look amazing and last for up to 100 years.
• Limited editions: If the framed print is a limited edition (like they sell on Minted or Saatchi Art), this means there are only so many prints of the original artwork that will be made. This increases the value of the framed print.
• Well-Known Artist: If you’re buying a framed print of artwork created by a well-known artist, you’ll be paying more than a framed print made from the work of an emerging artist.
• Popularity: If the artwork is featured in the news, books, museums, catalogs, websites, or other media, the price will go up.
• The Story: If there’s a really cool story behind the artwork (like a famous person used to own it or was featured in a TV show or play), then a framed print will probably go up in price.

How Much Should a Framed Print Cost?

There really isn’t a clear-cut answer to this question because there are so many factors that will increase or decrease the price of a framed print.

But, I find that if I’m buying directly from emerging artists, I’ll usually pay something between $40 to $150 USD for normal-sized framed prints.

Are Framed Prints Worth Buying?

Framed prints are often seen as mass-produced copies of original artwork that aren’t valuable. But I totally disagree!

Framed prints, especially limited editions like you see on Minted and Saatchi Art, can be highly valuable.

But art is more than the monetary value associate with it. Even if you’re not buying art as an investment, framed prints can bring life into your home or office!

With art, you can express yourself or change the mood of any room. And framed prints are much more budget-friendly than original works of art, so ANYONE can enjoy art at a fraction of the price!