The Best Printer for Fine Art Prints: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Professional fine art printer creating a vibrant, detailed print on archival paper.

The Best Printer for Fine Art Prints: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Written by Procolored - Published on Feb 6, 2025

9 minutes read

15 minutes read

Written by Procolored - Published on June 30, 2025

Table of Contents

1. What Makes a Printer Ideal for Fine Art Prints?

1.1 Color Accuracy & Wide Gamut

1.2 Print Resolution

1.3 Media Compatibility

1.4 Archival Quality

1.5 Print Size and Borderless Printing Options

1.6Connectivity and Workflow

2. Types of Printers for Fine Art Prints

2.1 Inkjet Printers-The Everyday Art Hero

2.2 Giclée Printers-The Gallery Ready Option

2.3 Dye-Sublimation Printers-for Non-Traditional Work

3. Best Fine Art Printers by Category (2025 Picks)

3.1 Best Overall: Epson SureColor P900

3.2 Best for Large Format Prints: Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2100

3.3 Best Budget Option: Canon PIXMA PRO-200

3.4 Best for Professional Photographers: Procolored F13 Panda A3 DTF Printer

3.5 Best Compact Fine-Art Printer: HP ENVY Inspire 7955e

4. Key Features to Consider Before Buying

4.1 Ink Type: Pigment vs. Dye

4.2 Print Size Capabilities

4.3 Cost of Consumables

4.4 Color Management Tools

4.5 Ease of Use

4.6 Maintenance & Durability

5. Fine Art Paper Matters Too

5.1 Types of Fine Art Paper

5.2 Matching Paper to Printer

5.3 Top Paper Brands Worth Knowing

6. Tips for Getting Gallery-Quality Results

6.1 Use Proper ICC Profiles

6.2 Calibrate Your Monitor

6.3 Use High-Resolution Files (300 DPI or Higher)

6.4 Run a Test Strip First

6.5 Store Prints the Right Way

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

8. Conclusion

Title

When it comes to turning your work into a show-stopping fine art print; talent alone isn’t enough. There’s a need for an equally stunning fine art printer that can compliment every brush stroke, shadow and shading.

Whether you’re a digital artist, photographer or just someone wanting to sell your work online, the right printer can take a flat, unexciting copy and turn it into a gallery-worthy image.

Because fine art printing isn’t just about spraying ink on paper; it’s about locking in every little detail – subtle shadows, textures and rich, deep colour that make the piece yours. To do that, your printer has to deliver true-to-life colour, archival material and pro-level clarity that won’t fade over time.

Traditional pigment-based inkjet printers are still one of the most popular options available, but in the fine art sphere, there is a new contender – the A3 DTF printers such as Procolored L1800.

These DTF printers enable fine art printing on textiles and bags using film transfer methods which capture intricate details with vivid coloration and traditionally without the need for pretreating fabric. For artists seeking to go beyond paper and explore functional or wearable art, this is an optimal choice.

So, whether you’re a painter, photographer, small-gallery host or even weekend hustler looking to go print-on-demand, this guide covers everything that actually matters when choosing the best printer for your fine art prints – so your next print looks stunning on paper as it does in your head.

What Makes a Printer Ideal for Fine Art Prints?

When you start talking about fine art, not every printer can keep up with the demands. If you want a print that feels as alive, detailed, and deep as the original, you need the right DTF machine. Here's what to watch for:

Color Accuracy & Wide Gamut

Color is the heart of artwork. The finest printers run on 10, or even 12 ink systems–usually pigment based, far richer than the old CMYK. This expanded color range helps produce subtle shadows and gradients with incredible precision.

And don’t overlook the power of ICC profiles and regular screen-to-print calibration. This makes sure what you see on your monitor walks straight onto the paper—no dull surprises.

Print Resolution

Fine details matter, especially when you’re printing intricate textures or high-resolution photography. Aim for at least 2400 x 1200 dpi; anything lower can leave your print looking soft or pixelated.

Media Compatibility

Art takes lots of shapes, so should your paper. The best DTF printer accepts a variety of fine art media: from heavyweight texture paper and smooth matte finishes to high-end glossy photo stock. That kind of freedom lets you play, test new looks, and pick the perfect medium for every project.

Archival Quality

Your prints deserve to last. Pigment-based inks resist fading, staying true for a century or longer when kept away from sunlight and moisture. If you sell art or loan work to galleries, this level of durability moves from nice-to-have to absolute must.

Print Size and Borderless Printing Options

Whether you're making a tiny postcard or a 40-inch show-stopper, the DTF printer needs to rise to the occasion. Choose a model that handles large format printing (up to 17" x 44"), accepts custom paper sizes, and can lay down ink right to the edge. Sometimes a clean border just cuts into your idea.

Connectivity and Workflow

Your T-shirt printer should slide into the studio rhythm, not trip it. Fast, reliable connections with USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet save headaches. Bonus points for support for mobile printing, SD cards, and compatibility with creative software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom—so you can go from edit to print without missing a beat.

Types of Printers for Fine Art Prints

Picking out the right DTF printer is a huge step toward making sure your art looks stunning. Every style has strong points that suit different projects and display settings. So let us break it down:

Inkjet Printers-The Everyday Art Hero

Inkjet machines remain the go-to for fine-art printing, and honestly, it is hard to argue. They nail crisp details, effortless gradients, and can print on different types of papers.

The one fact worth remembering is simple:

● Pigment inks are the real gold standard. They last well over a century and lock colors in place without the fade.

● Dye inks give brilliant first impressions, yet they fade faster. Because of that, they fit for casual use, not long-term sales or gallery hangs.

So if you care about longevity and impact, hunt down an inkjet that runs pigment inks, or better yet explore modern, high-tech machines like Prooclored DTF (Direct-to-Film) printers.

DTF systems enable versatile high-res printing on fabric with precision expected at fine art levels. They are particularly praised for their color accuracy and detail retention as well as producing prints that don’t fade easily even when subjected to harsh conditions.

Such features make Procolored DTF printers great for artists who want their work to stand out—not just on paper, but on fabric, canvas, and beyond.

Giclée Printers-The Gallery Ready Option

You've probably heard the word giclée while hunting for art prints. It sounds fancy, but what does it really mean?

Simply put, a giclée is a top-grade inkjet printing made with pigment inks on archival paper designed to last. It's become the go-to choice for professional editions heading to galleries or picky collectors. Giclée printers deliver stunning detail, rich color, and images capable of surviving decades without fading.

Dye-Sublimation Printers-for Non-Traditional Work

Dye-sublimation printers aren’t used much for regular paper prints, yet it excels on metal, cloth, or ceramic. Instead of coating the top, the process infuses ink into the material, making your print waterproof, tough, and eye-popping. Think of it like printing your art designs on items like metal panels, throw pillows, mugs, or tees.

Best Fine Art Printers by Category (2025 Picks)

Not sure which printer best meets your requirements? Regardless of whether you have been printing for a long time or planning to showcase your work on paper, the right DTF transfer machine can make all the difference.

To help you out, we’ve selected 5 fine art printers of 2025—focusing on image quality, cost ,and consistent performance—so that you can better match one with your studio rhythm.

A. Best Overall: Epson SureColor P900

Epson SureColor P900 printer producing a high-detail fine art photo print.

For those seeking a complete package, Epson SureColor P900 sits in the sweet spot for both dedicated photographers and fine-art creators.

● The 10-color UltraChrome PRO10 ink system incorporated in this printer ensures amazing color reproduction with deep blacks, getting you stunning prints that can help galleries and studios put their best foot forward.xxxxxx

● Having the capability to handle sheets up to 17 inches wide, it can effectively manage mid-sized projects such as small to medium print mats or any other prints users wish to work on.

● Users appreciate its sharp detail precision coupled with reproducible result consistency—a combination other printers struggle to provide.

Perfect for: Professionals who want exceptional quality at a cost-effective price without compromising too much on size

B. Best for Large Format Prints: Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2100

Canon PRO-2100 wide-format printer for exhibition-sized prints.

When your artwork exceeds size limits, don’t worry, reach for the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2100.

● This machine is great for creating eye-catching visuals from studio presentations, exhibition stands to outstanding display prints for gallery walls since it handles prints up to 24 inches wide.

● Features 12-cartridge Lucia Pro ink set, known for rich deep blacks, breathtaking contrast, and incredible color accuracy

● In addition, its rugged build quality guarantees long-life durability, making it a true workhorse during extended periods of extensive usage.

Perfect for: studios, exhibition spaces or confident creators looking to make a polished impression.

C. Best Budget Option: Canon PIXMA PRO-200

Looking for an affordable option? The entry-level fine-art printer, Canon PIXMA PRO-200, puts color printing within financial reach.

● Its eight-dye ink set gives lively color and surprising sharpness for the money.

● The printer can handle sheets measuring 13 by 19, which is a good size for mini portfolios and proofs or even to showcase on Etsy.

● Light and compact enables effortless transport while its low weight ensures ease of movement.

Perfect for: Most suited for aspiring artists or photographers who want amazing output without breaking the bank.

D. Best for Professional Photographers: Procolored F13 Panda A3 DTF Printer

Procolored F13 Panda A3 DTF printer for photo-quality fabric prints.

For commercial photographers seeking to expand their operations by transforming beautiful images into clothing or branded gifts, The Procolored F13 Panda A3 DTF Printer is an outstanding tool.

● Achieve detailed and sharp photo-quality prints with rich colors and smooth color transitions—perfect for intricate photographic pieces.

● Auto Cleaning print heads, and white ink circulation reduce clogging and expands lifespan for consistent performance.

● Provides improved control for ink flow management during printing which brings out perfection especially when working with complex and colorful graphic files.

● It directly prints onto cotton, polyester, fabric blends, dark colored fabrics without any pretreatment needed.

Perfect for: Best for photographers who want lab-grade results from a printer that fits on a crowded desk.

E. Best Compact Fine-Art Printer: HP ENVY Inspire 7955e

If you’re printing for fun, on a budget or simply avoiding gallery specs? The HP ENVY Inspire 7955 e is a reliable little champ.

● While it can't match pigment-based pro models, it still gives hobbyists crisp color and decent photo quality.

● Compact, affordable, and great for casual creatives or student portfolios.

● Also handles everyday tasks like scanning and copying.

Perfect for: Hobbyists, students, or anyone who wants an affordable way to dip their toes into fine art printing.

Key Features to Consider Before Buying

Selecting a quality DTF printer for fine art isn’t only about the attention grabbing specs or brands, it’s about how it fits within your daily routine and creative process.

Before clicking on “buy”, look at these features that truly count.

1.Ink Type: Pigment vs. Dye

Bring this topic around any serious printmaker, and you’ll instantly spark a debate.

● With more longevity as an option, pigment ink wins hands down.. It clings to textured papers, repels fading, and can hold up for decades, so it's the obvious choice for gallery shows and museum collections.

● Dye ink has its benefits—it's bright and colorful, working well with short-term or personal projects. But if you intend to sell or display prints long term, pigment ink will serve you better. While dye inks have vibrant initial colors, they fade over time making them less suitable for art that is meant to endure the test of time .

2.Print Size Capabilities

Size matters, so map out your biggest ambition.

Some compact DTF printers only tackle A4 or A3 sheets, while heavy-duty units can go all the way up to 44-inch rolls for billboard-sized images. Choose wisely so your DTF transfer machine doesn’t lock you into miniatures when your dream piece stretches across a whole wall.

3.Cost of Consumables

Ink is pricey, and so are high-quality paper and those tiny maintenance tanks.

Before you commit, think about the day-to-day expense:

●How frequently will you need to replace the cartridges?

●Does the DTF printer sip ink or guzzle it like there is no tomorrow?

●Do you have freedom to bring in budget third-party sheets, or are you chained to brand-specific options?

That cheap-looking printer up front might cost you way more in the long run.

4.Color Management Tools

In art printing, trust is all in the color match.

Choose a model with built-in calibration or solid ICC support so screen and paper speak the same language. A strong color management system wastes fewer sheets and keeps your customers smiling.

5.Ease of Use

A good t-shirt printer shouldn't need a tech degree to set up and feed.

Responsive touchscreen, clear driver software, cloud links, and a phone app will grease your workflow. If print day makes you twitch, you should probably park this machine.

6.Maintenance & Durability

Nothing halts creativity faster than a clogged printhead and a blank page.

Better printers now pack handy extras such as anti-clog circuits, one-touch cleaning routines, and durable printheads, so you save time, cash, and hassle later.

Fine Art Paper Matters Too

So, you’ve got your artwork, you’ve got the best DTF printer, but there’s still one crucial actor in the show—-YOUR PAPER. Picture it as the stage your image stands on. When you choose wisely, that paper absorbs the ink and, more important, brings the design to life.

A. Types of Fine Art Paper

Not every sheet works for fine art creations. Here are the top main options

● Cotton Rag Paper: Most loved by veterans, this 100-percent cotton paper is strong and soft while giving prints a luxurious look deserving of museums.

● Textured Watercolor Paper: This option is great if you want your print to possess a soft and handcrafted quality. Just like actual watercolor paper, it has a coarse, natural texture that enhances your artwork’s traditional and painted appearance. It works wonderfully for adding depth and character to organic illustrations or paintings, lending an artistic aesthetic.

● Matte and Glossy Photo Papers: These shine with photos or sharp digital art. While glossy finishes provide rich blacks and vibrant colors, matte offers softness with muted elegance devoid of glare.

B. Matching Paper to Printer

Remember, your paper and DTF machine must get along easily. If your printer is set up for plain stock, going for specialty sheets can jam, smudge, or under-deliver, so check profiles and test first.

Remember, Checking compatibility before you spend is a wise step. Reputable brands usually post ICC profiles tailored to specific models and ink types. Using this profile keep your colours true and every print as close to your vision as possible.

C. Top Paper Brands Worth Knowing

Top-tier paper is about more than looks; it affects the life of an artwork and the way ink settles on the surface. These names are respected in art studios and galleries worldwide

● Hahnemühle—-German craft, archival-grade and luxurious. Known for a wide range of beautiful textured papers.

● Canson—classic choice for painters and digital artists alike; Their fine art papers soak up colour yet stay smooth over time.

● Moab by Legion Paper– Built for photographers and illustrators in mind who want bold accurate results.

● Epson Legacy Papers—Engineered for high-end Epson machines, these sheets reveal subtle detail and deep, clean tones.

Tips for Getting Gallery-Quality Results

Even the best, most high-end printers can fail if you skip the prep work. Fine art printing isn’t just about hitting ‘print’, it’s about setting your work up for success before the ink touches the paper.

Follow these hands-on tips to help move from “pretty good” prints to truly gallery-worthy masterpieces:

1.Use Proper ICC Profiles

Color really counts-and ICC profiles let your DTF printer and paper talk the same language. These tiny files match inks to papers ensuring your colors come out exactly as intended.. Most papermakers offer ICC profiles for free, so grab them—it’s a total game-changer for color accuracy.

2.Calibrate Your Monitor

What you see on screen isn’t always what prints out ---unless you calibrate. Calibration tools tweak brightness, contrast, and RGB balance so the screen mimics real paper results. If you want dependable prints, this tiny step is huge.

3.Use High-Resolution Files (300 DPI or Higher)

Blurry prints? Not at all.

To make sure every line and detail comes out sharp and clear, keep files at 300 DPI or more, especially for anything bigger than a standard photo size. Low-res photos may sparkle on the screen but crumble under ink.

4.Run a Test Strip First

Before sending the whole file to the DTF printer, print a small test strip. This lets you check color, contrast, and sharpness while wasting expensive paper or ink. Spotting issues early lets you tweak settings and save time-and money-on a big run.

5. Store Prints the Right Way

Even the most stunning print won’t last if you stored it carelessly. Always keep your DTF transfer prints into acid-free sleeves or folders, and keep them out of sun, damp air, or wild heat. For gallery display, frame it behind UV glass or in cases built for long-term art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s The Difference Between Giclée And Inkjet?

Great question! Technically Giclée printing is inkjet printing, yet not every inkjet print earns the giclée badge.

For a piece to be considered that giclee, a few boxes have to be checked:

● High resolution, usually 300 DPI or better.

● Pigment-based inks, not dye.

● Archival paper that stands the test of time.

● Color proofs managed through accurate ICC profiles.

So, think of giclée as the premium version of inkjet printing —ideal for gallery and collector grade-work.

2. Can I Use Third-Party Inks For Fine Art?

Despite seeming attractive from a price saving perspective, third-party inks tend to skimp-out on consistency over time, coverage spectrum, and ICC profile support. If you’re printing professionally or provided with best archival storage options, sticking to the manufacturer inks is still the safest road.

3. Is Pigment Ink Waterproof?

Yes, once they dry on the right paper, pigment inks resist water quite a bit. This toughness is why many artists choose them for fine-art prints. While they aren't truly waterproof in all conditions (like soaking) but they hold up well against humidity and light smudges.

4. Is A Rip (Raster Image Processor) Really Necessary?

Unless you’re managing complex, high-volume print jobs or craving super-fine color control, most artists and photography don’t need a RIP. Files from Photoshop or Lightroom printed through their ICC profile pipeline work great without a dedicated box.

A RIP shines in busy print shops, quirky file workflows, or big-format runs where speed and precision rule.

5. How Big A Printer Do I Need For Gallery Work?

It comes down to how big a showcase you’ll be doing.

● A 13-inch or 17-inch DTF printer will work for small and mid-sized pieces of work.

● If your printing needs are larger, we recommend 24-inch to 44-inch roll printers.

Larger artwork printers offer more creative freedom, but also come with extra costs in terms of maintenance and storage space. Select a printer that meets the requirements of both your art and surroundings.

Conclusion

When selecting a fine art printer, you should consider print size, ink quality, and work volume.

● If you're just starting out with the best DTF printer for small business, then the A4 L800 F8 Panda is ideal for beginner DTF printing.

● For higher level professional work, expect gallery-ready results from Procolored A3 DTF printers as they consistently deliver outstanding quality and performance.

Looking to take your business further? Schedule a consultation on our page. We’ll help you get started with Procolored DTF printers which effortlessly create high-quality apparel from stunning works of fine art.