Avoid These Art Print Ordering Mistakes: Tips for Ruston Creatives

Art prints are a fantastic way to celebrate creativity and bring color into our homes, offices, and community spaces. In a city like Ruston, LA—where local art festivals, galleries, and student showcases reflect a vibrant creative spirit—knowing how to order art prints correctly can make a big difference. Whether you’re a Louisiana Tech student, a local artist, or simply want to decorate your Ruston home with beautiful images, here are common mistakes to avoid when ordering art prints.

Choosing the Wrong File Type or Resolution

*One of the most common missteps is submitting artwork in a file format or resolution not suited for fine art printing.* In Ruston, with its humid weather and bright Louisiana sunlight streaming through our windows, print clarity and longevity are crucial.

• Mistake: Uploading low-resolution files or using web-optimized formats like JPEGs at 72dpi.
• Solution: Use high-resolution files (preferably 300dpi or higher), and formats like TIFF or high-quality PDF to ensure crisp, detailed prints that look fantastic on your walls, whether you’re displaying them in your home near Downtown Ruston or in your studio.

Ignoring Color Profiles

Color reproduction can make or break your finished print. Many Ruston artists create vibrant works inspired by local scenes—from the peach orchards to the lively Railroad Park events.

• Mistake: Forgetting to use the correct color profile, leading to color shifts when the image is printed.
• Solution: Consult with your print provider and convert files to the recommended CMYK or sRGB profile for prints. This ensures that those Ruston sunset colors or Bulldog blues look as striking on paper as they do on your screen.

Picking the Wrong Paper or Material

Ruston’s diverse decor styles—from modern college apartments to historic homes—mean your paper choice matters.

• Mistake: Selecting paper without considering finish or durability, resulting in prints that fade or clash with local interiors.
• Solution: Think about where your art will hang:
• For galleries or upscale spaces in the Ruston Cultural District, choose archival-quality, textured fine art papers.
• For everyday home decor, satin or luster finishes offer longevity and gentle sheen without glare.
• Ask your printer for local recommendations—some may know which materials fare best in Northern Louisiana’s climate.

Overlooking Proofing and Test Prints

We all want to see our art shine at Ruston’s Makers Fair or as a centerpiece in a Chautauqua District home. Skipping proofing is a sure way to end up disappointed.

• Mistake: Not requesting a proof or test print, which may result in unexpected color or clarity issues.
• Solution: Always ask for a proof print before placing a large order. This allows for adjustments, ensuring your art looks perfect—an absolute must before sharing your work at a community show or gifting a print to a fellow Rustonite.

Misjudging Print Size and Proportions

Different Ruston settings call for different print sizes: an apartment gallery wall, a Main Street café, or the Louisiana Tech art building. Measuring mistakes are easily made.

• Mistake: Ordering prints in the wrong size or aspect ratio for your frame or space.
• Solution: Carefully measure your target display area and consult with your printer to match dimensions. Consider Ruston’s love of gallery walls and ensure your prints align for a cohesive, local-inspired look.

Forgetting About Local Climate and Framing

Ruston’s weather—hot summers, damp winters—means print preservation is a real concern. Even beautiful art can deteriorate if not properly protected.

• Mistake: Neglecting to factor in heat, humidity, and sunlight when planning framing and placement.
• Solution: Opt for UV-protective glass and acid-free mats, especially if your prints will hang in sunlit or humid areas. Local print shops often have framing partners or recommendations suited to Ruston’s climate.

Not Reviewing Printer Credentials

The thriving Ruston art scene means more print options, but also more chances to choose inexperience over expertise.

• Mistake: Choosing a print provider without reviewing their portfolio or reputation.
• Solution: Ask to see sample prints, read reviews from fellow Ruston artists, and don’t hesitate to ask about their process. A trusted local provider can offer helpful advice tailored to our region’s unique needs.

Not Planning for Delivery and Handling

Local festivals and markets like the Ruston Farmers’ Market often require art on a tight timeline.

• Mistake: Forgetting to check turnaround times or mishandling prints during transport, leading to damaged or late orders.
• Solution: Communicate your deadlines clearly and use proper storage—such as archival sleeves or flat boxes—when picking up prints locally or ordering for a Ruston art event.

Overlooking the Ruston Touch

Ordering prints isn’t just technical—it’s about community. Many in Ruston love prints that celebrate local beauty, from scenic parks to cherished landmarks.

• Solution: Collaborate with your printer to add personal touches, like special edition markings or locally themed packaging. Sharing a bit of Ruston’s personality in your prints is always well received, whether you’re selling at the Christmas Market or gifting to a Tech alum.

Conclusion

Ordering art prints in Ruston, LA, is an exciting way to engage with our city’s lively, supportive art community. By avoiding these common mistakes—choosing the right files, paper, framing, and working with knowledgeable local printers—you’ll ensure your prints reflect the creativity and warmth of Ruston itself. Whether your art celebrates our local landscapes or the spirit of Louisiana living, thoughtful print ordering is the first step to making lasting memories for yourself and the entire community.