Scanners for large artwork

basketmaker · #1 11-16-2009, 05:58 PM

Hi there!
I need advice for scanning larger artwork- at least 20x24, but right now 11x14 would do. My printer scanner will only do a great job on 9x11 unless I want folded edges. I try to keep a digital copy of all my artwork so that if I happen to sell a piece or give it away, I have a copy for me. I live in a small town and although we do have several print shops, no one is able to scan large artwork. But I know there's gotta be a way other than taking photos which I have done, but I haven't liked the results. I have read the most recent article in Watercolor Magazine about photographing your work which I may try - but I don't want to.
Excited to see what pops up!

Leptailurus · #2 11-21-2009, 03:37 AM

20x24 you miiiight be able to scan in parts and puzzle it together, if you're very careful and if it's flat (no mounted canvas, for sure). You'll have to have a LOT of patience, and spend a lot of time in photoshop piecing it together. Here's a tutorial I found online after a quick google search: http://blog.illustrationcastle.com/2...-in-photoshop/

Personally, I'd say find a professional photographer to photograph it for you. It can be rather pricey, but the results are perfect.

I'll warn you if you go for the first method, piecing scans together is enough to make you scream and want to chuck it all out the window and set it on fire. After doing it for many years, I've decided to save up for the professional photo equipment to save stress!

Briar Rose · #3 11-28-2009, 01:17 AM

If it is flat, a print shop can scan it for you , in that size, for $2.50.

I just scanned an art piece that was 24" wide by 15" long. But I got it scanned in Black&White. And they had massive machines.

You have to find a print place that makes things like signs. Not a photo copy place. Look in the yellow pages and call around.

And, if it's not flat, take a picture of it, and print it out, 8X10. Bring it to a shop that has those massive machines. The machine color corrects, and does all sort of wonderful things.

All the best to you.

AbstractNotion · #4 06-17-2010, 07:40 AM

I called around locally about this same thing. Check architectural firms. They use large scanners to scan blueprints. You would probably still have to get the file printed elsewhere though.

acgraphite · #5 10-28-2010, 01:34 AM

Thanks for this info.

birdlady · #6 09-15-2011, 10:38 AM

I too suggest calling a architectural place. I use one that does blue prints, but not for me, and scans my works AND prints them for me. They are so good u cant tell the original from the prints. The price to scan is pricey but its well worth it and they can keep the file for u , Or u can, to do more prints.

good luck on your search

Laurie

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