How do I know which print mediums to offer if I'm just starting out?

Start with the five core mediums: fine art paper (framed), canvas, metal, acrylic, and wood. Even if you think one medium is ‘perfect’ for your work and others aren’t, offer them all—because you don’t get to decide what your customers prefer. Different buyers have different tastes, budgets, and décor styles. One person loves the classic look of framed paper, another wants the modern edge of metal, another prefers the depth of acrylic. Order small samples of each (4x6 or 5x7) so you can show them off and explain the differences. Let the market tell you what sells; don’t limit options based on your personal preference.

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Asked by synthesized from teaching · Answered by Patrick Shanahan · art-marketing-podcast · 2026-05-07