What Is the Difference Between a Fine Art Print and Wall Decal?
When it comes to choosing decorative elements for your home, both fine art prints and wall decals have their place.
However, they serve different purposes and are different in their longevity, presentation, and materials. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about what to hang on your walls.
What exactly is a fine art print?
A fine art print can be a reproduction of an original work of art that is typically made using high-quality materials and printing techniques, such as giclee or serigraphy.
Fine art prints are often printed on archival-quality paper or canvas, ensuring that the colors and details remain true to the original artwork. Fine art prints can range from photographs to paintings and are frequently signed and numbered by the artist, making them collectible items.
This video of June Hunter, a Vancouver-based photographer and artist, shows you how a fine art print is made from start to finish. You can see the level of care that goes into creating a fine art print.
View June Hunter's Prints and Wall Art >
Durability of Fine Art Prints
Fine art prints, when properly cared for and displayed, can last for many decades. They are often framed behind glass to protect them from dust, sunlight, and the environment, which contributes to their longevity.
What is a wall decal and what are its main uses?
Wall decals are more like stickers designed specifically for walls. They are made from vinyl or a similar material and have a self-adhesive backing that can be applied directly to a wall. Wall decals are used for a variety of purposes, including temporary decorations for parties, quick and easily changeable decor for children's rooms, and bold visual statements in otherwise bland spaces.
Uses of Wall Decals
The main uses of wall decals are decorative.
They can quickly transform the look of a space without the permanence or expense of paint or wallpaper. They’re particularly popular in rented homes where alterations are not permitted, and in nurseries and kids’ rooms where the decor may change frequently as children grow.
Are fine art prints and wall decals created using different materials?
Yes, fine art prints and wall decals are created using different materials. As mentioned, fine art prints are usually made on high-quality paper or canvas, whereas wall decals are made from vinyl. This difference in material affects not only the appearance but also the use and lifespan of the product.
How long can I expect a fine art print to last versus a wall decal?
A fine art print that is framed and displayed away from sunlight can last a lifetime. In contrast, the lifespan of a wall decal can vary but is generally shorter. Wall decals can start to peel or fade over time, especially if they are placed in areas with a lot of direct sunlight or moisture. The average lifespan of a wall decal is about five to seven years.
Are wall decals less durable than fine art prints?
Generally, wall decals are less durable than fine art prints. The vinyl material of a decal can degrade over time, particularly in harsh environmental conditions, whereas fine art prints are specifically made to resist fading and deterioration when properly framed and maintained.
Final Thoughts
When deciding between a fine art print and a wall decal, consider the permanence of your decor, the investment you're willing to make, and the effect you want to create in your space.
Fine art prints can be seen as a long-term investment and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. Wall decals, on the other hand, offer a more affordable and flexible way to express your personality and quickly update the look of a room.
Both have their unique advantages and can contribute to making your home a welcoming and colourful space.
Check Out June Hunter's Prints
Check out June Hunter’s collection of crow, raven, garden bird and blue botanical prints which will add a vibrant touch of nature to your home.
Read More:
Botanical Prints: A Guide to Encorporating this Style of Wall Art Into Your Home
Explore June Hunter's Gift Shop
This article was written by Colette Nichol and reviewed by photographer and nature enthusiast June Hunter. Our aim with these short articles is to bring interesting bird facts and nature-inspired home décor info to more online readers while also highlighting June Hunter's photography and designs. To read June Hunter's popular blog the Urban Nature Enthusiast, where she shares stories about crows and ravens, please click HERE.
