Digital File FAQ's
Some questions may arise regarding what you can do – and can’t do – with a digital file after you purchase one. The following is a brief explanation of what digital art files are and some suggestions on how to use your new artwork for you to enjoy.
What do I get in a digital file download?
Once purchased, you will receive a unique link (URL) to download your digital artwork file in the form of a high resolution .jpg (JPEG) RGB image, ready to use as you wish.
What is a printable digital art file?
A printable digital file is artwork that you can use with most any print-on-demand services that offers options to print on all sorts of surfaces and finishes. It’s an affordable way to get original artwork printed onto surfaces like canvas, wood panel, acrylic and even metal.
How can I print digital files?
When it comes to printing your digital art file, there are many options:
- Use your home or office printer – This is a convenient and inexpensive option for files that can fit on 8.5”x11” paper or smaller. You may want to print onto a medium to heavy white card stock or use photo paper for best results. Ordinary copier paper will not be a good option – especially for art that is very vibrant and color intensive.
- Upload your file to an online photo processor – Local photo processors such as Walgreens, CVS, Staples, Walmart, etc. are a fast, reliable, and inexpensive option. They often offer coupons for photo printing and your print can be ready for pickup the same day – sometimes within an hour or so. If you don’t wish to upload your file – put the file on a USB flash drive and take the artwork directly to the photo processor.
- On-Demand Printing – On-demand shops such as VistaPrint, Redbubble, Zazzle, CafePress, and more offer printing options for all sorts of surfaces and products – opening up a world of possibility for how your artwork can be displayed and enjoyed. Your digital art file is ready to be printed onto most anything – from mugs to pillow cases – from mouse pads to phone cases.
Can I print my file in a different size than what I ordered?
When printing your digital file at a size other than the original width and height, be sure to consider the new size has a similar aspect ratio. Aspect ratio is the relationship between the width & height of a digital image. You file can be resized to print at larger or smaller sizes without distortion as long as the relationship between the width & height remains the same.
Examples of Aspect Ratio:
- 5×7 = 7:5 aspect ratio
- 16×20 & 8×10 = 5:4 aspect ratio
- 24×36 & 20×30 = 3:2 aspect ratio
What can’t I do with a digital artwork file?
Even though you purchased digital artwork, there are some things that you can not do:
- You may not re-sell the digital artwork individually or include it in a collection for re-selling purposes.
- You may not use the digital artwork for any commercial purposes such as advertising (print or digital), retail or business uses – and for other commercial endeavors not fully outlined here. For special non-profit or charitable uses, please contact us for permission.
- You may not redistribute or share digital artwork individually or in a collection, other than for your personal printing use, such as uploading the file to an online printing service.
- You may not post the artwork as-is on social media platforms – unless it has been printed onto a product or surface to showcase the artwork
If you have any doubts about the proper use of a digital file you have purchased, please contact us.
I’m Marshall Lloyd and I have been creating original art for over 40 years. Working mostly in acrylics (often with mixed media), I strive to create visually interesting works composed of layers, textures and intuitive mark making.
I also work in a digital format, creating vibrant and colorful works that can easily be used with print-on-demand products and websites of your choice.
