FAQ

Q: Are all Metal Prints alike, and why do you call yours HD Metal Prints?

A: All metal prints are definitely NOT alike. Firstly, there are a couple of ways to make metal prints. Either an inferior quality "direct print" onto an aluminum sheet, or a much higher quality "dye sublimation" process. We use the dye-sublimation process. Secondly, the brand of aluminum is VERY important. We use the original and the best aluminum coated sheets by Chromaluxe™ This is the key to us providing the highest quality metal prints. Others we tested did not have the HD clarity of Chromaluxe metal prints. Chromaluxe metal prints have been shown to resist fading for 65+ years, for Wilhelm Imaging Test Results. The other brands made in China will fade after a couple of years and they don't have the durability of Chromaluxe Metal Prints. Beware of buying cheap metal prints, they are cheap for a reason!!

Q: Will my HD Metal Print fade in the light?

A: Because the image is heat infused into the aluminum metal the inks are bonded with the metal creating a very long lasting print. Xenon Light Stability Testing has shown that HD Metal Prints last 2-4 times longer than traditional photo based silver papers.

Q: How do I clean my HD Metal Print?

A: We recommend using a clean lint free cloth to wipe off your print. You can use water or non-ammonia glass cleaner. Do NOT use rubbing alcohol to clean your print.

Q: What is the printing Method?

A: Dye Sublimation is where your image is first printed onto a transfer paper with "dye" inks then "sublimated" into the aluminum sheet with heat and pressure. The inks are bonded with the aluminum. This is the same process commonly used in the clothing industry where patters or images are infused into different textiles.

Pros:

• Since the ink is infused into the aluminum your image is scratch and water resistant.
• If used with the right aluminum (more about this below) they are now archival prints and will resist fading for 65+years.

Cons:

• The main con used to be that the image wasn't as clear as a photo paper print until recently. Recent advances in paper and metal quality has made it where the image is now very clear and rivals even the best photo paper prints.

Q: What kind of metal are these printed on?

A: Dye Sublimation coated aluminum sheets basically all start out the same, using imported aluminum panels that then have to be coated. The real magic happens in coating technology used by the different manufacturers. The super thin coating is the layer that the image is actually infused into, not the aluminum itself. So the longevity, durability and vibrance is all dependent upon the coating used.

We can confidently say that the absolute highest quality coated sheets are created by Chromaluxe. They are the only sheets that we are aware that have been independently tested for longevity and durability by Wilhelm Institute.

These aluminum sheets are rated to last 65+years and have an amazing depth and clarity that we haven't seen with other brands.

Specs: 1/16" thick.