Where to Buy Affordable Artwork
Are you starin’ down your blank walls wondering where the heck you can find inexpensive art? Digital art prints have opened up a whole new world of affordable decor, making wall art more versatile and accessible than ever.
I was originally skeptical of this method, but if you purchase a high-resolution scan and have it printed on high-quality paper, you can expect beautiful results at a great price. Many artists now sell their art digitally to reach a wider audience, so you’re still supporting a creator!
But first, a quick shout out to HomeSense and art rental programs
HomeSense is equal parts junk and gem. It’s worth a look though - you may get lucky!
Another cool option is renting your art. Many local galleries and art spaces have art rental programs which allow you to borrow a piece for around $15 - $50 a month, depending on the artist, size, etc. This allows you to A) enjoy a piece you could never otherwise afford, B) “try before you buy” (since many programs are rent-to-own), or C) regularly switch up your art while supporting local artists!
What exactly is digital printable art?
This lovely Vintage Abstract Watercolor Landscape is available from Olive & Oak. Find their prints on Etsy, or visit their website.
Unlike canvas prints, which are high-quality reproductions of an artist’s original paintings, digital prints are high-quality scans of their original works.
Some artists sell their scans directly, like Nuuillustrations via Etsy. Online curators like Olive & Oak, Juniper Print Shop, and Collection Prints license works from artists and museums, and also share unique vintage finds.
Sites like Etsy have huge collections of printable art, from paintings to posters to photos and beyond! Use the filters to help narrow your search, and “heart” items as you go so you can keep track of all your favourites.
This vintage print is from Juniper Print Shop’s personal collection.
How much does printable art cost?
Because you’re only purchasing a PDF scan of the artwork in the form of an instant digital download, the artwork itself is extremely affordable — often under $10.
Once you’ve downloaded your PDF and chosen the size(s) you want to print, send the file(s) to a printing service like SolutionShop by Staples. The printing cost will vary based on the size and number of your pieces, but for a point of reference, but you can expect to pay around $20-$50.
RELATED: How to Decorate Bare Walls
You’ll also need to buy a frame (or several), which vary in price depending on size and material. Check Amazon, IKEA, and your local thrift stores for the most affordable options!
In the end, you’re paying for the art file(s) + printing + frame(s). This can add up, but it’s still one of the most affordable ways to get art on your walls!
NOTES: I would print both botanicals from the gallery set onto darker substrates so their backgrounds aren’t paper white amidst all the other muted pieces. Also, the lovely coastal print on the right should have been hung several inches lower and centred over the desk. Click here for more art tips!
RELATED: All About Artwork (Size, Spacing, Height, Framing, Colours, and More!)
Digital Art Selection and Printing Tips
Avoid artwork with white/empty backgrounds (common in botanical pieces), unless you’re able to print on some sort of off-white substrate. Standard paper is VERY bright white - much brighter than even the whitest paints and furnishings typically found in interiors. Your minimal print will simply look too crisp, becoming an eyesore rather than a focal point! 🙈
Our apartment is painted BM Chantilly Lace, one of the whitest white paints available, but you can still easily see the unpleasant contrast between the standard printer paper and the softer interior whites.
When printing at Staples:
Choose the correct paper size and orientation. If you’re going for a larger size, make sure your digital download can support it. For instance, if your download comes with a max dimension of 16” x 20” and you try print it out at 24” x 36”, it will look blurry.
Select a full-page print e.g. “Stretch to Fit” or “Full Bleed”. If the preview still shows white margins, you may have to call or go into the store and talk to an employee.
Make sure you select a colour print.
IMPORTANT: Choose matte paper! Gloss is SUPER glossy — not a good look for artwork.
Some Lovely Pieces of Printable Art
Check out some of my favourite shops and pieces below! (Check out even more of my favs here.) Not your style? Not to worry — there’s something for everyone on Etsy!
Olive & Oak | Juniper Print Shop | Collection Prints
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