Frequently asked questions and answers

What are prints?

Prints are a picture, copy, or design made by printing (as from an engraving or a photographic negative). For different printing methods see The Gift Horse Gallery Art Guide.

What are limited edition prints?

Limited edition prints are produced in limited numbers, which makes the image more exclusive. Edition sizes vary but are limited by market forces, not by the physical constraints of the printmaking method. The Fine Art Trade Guild print standard sets a maximum edition size of 850. Most limited editions are signed and numbered in pencil by the artist with a commitment that no other reproduction of the image will be made. Some publishers will produce different editions for different markets i.e. a UK edition and a USA edition.

What is an artists’ proof?

The first few images that are printed as the artist/printmaker adjusts the colours and tones are called artists’ proofs. These are imperfect copies and to some collectors are worth more, however with most modern printing methods the true artists’ proofs are likely to be discarded allowing the publishers to add a few more copies to an edition.

What type of pictures do you stock?

We stock many different types and style of pictures from inexpensive open edition prints and originals to landscapes, portraits and animals.

What if I cannot find a particular artist or picture?

New pictures and artists are constantly being added to The Gift Horse Gallery. If there is a particular artist's work you want then please email or phone us 029 2061 9358 and let us know what you are looking for, as we have the ability to locate many works of art.

Am I buying an investment?

We do not sell art as a monetary investment, we always advise buying a picture because you like it and it will add value to your life and if it increases in value that is a bonus. The art market is as fickle and hard to predict as any other. You could buy an original Van Gogh for £11m this year and next year it might only sell for £10m.

Are originals better than prints?

It depends what you class as better, if you are looking for better quality products then a good quality print printed on good quality paper will be better than a mass produced original on poor quality paper. If however you are looking for a picture you can enjoy for many years then better is in the eye of the beholder.

How much should I spend on a picture?

As much or as little as you want. Like everything else there is no rule to buying pictures, more does not always mean better. If you see a picture that you like buy it.

Is my picture worth anything?

Something is only worth what some one is prepared to pay for it. Before trying to sell a picture try to research the artist and see what their pictures are selling for. When it comes to secondary market pictures individuals have the problem of getting there picture seen, there are people who specialize in this market but by the time they have taken their commission and VAT it leaves you with less than you may have hoped. If you have a picture by a well known popular artist whose work is selling for thousands of pounds probably the best place to sell it is through one on the UK’s auction houses.

Why should I have something framed?

There are three main reasons for framing an item, first is to enable you to hang the item on a wall, second is to enhance the beauty of the item you are framing, third is to protect the item.

How can framing protect a picture?

Framing protects a picture in a number of ways. The most obvious is from physical damage e.g dents or dirt from other objects. Framing also protects your picture from air/air borne pollutants (air causes paper to become brittle) and ultra-violet light (UV light causes paper to deteriorate and discolour/fade some inks). Correct framing should also protect pictures from damage caused by acids.

What can be framed?

Almost anything can be framed. If you can carry it into the shop we can probably frame it. Items we have framed in the past include the usual original pictures, prints, needle works, photos, posters, football and rugby shirts along with the more unusual books, jackets, caps, masks, medals, coins, miniature swords, rugs, wedding cake decorations, flowers, baby clothes and stone tablets, African pipes and spears.

If you have something that you would like framed but you're not sure if it can be done, bring it in and we’ll let you know.

Why should I choose The Gift Horse Gallery to frame my picture?

The Gift Horse Gallery's framers are very experienced in all types of framing. We can offer excellent advice on the best way to frame your artwork and on the best choice of colour and type of mount, moulding and glass. The Gift Horse gallery probably has the largest selection of mouldings in Cardiff, South Wales.

How long will the framing take?

Most orders are completed within 7 – 10 days but we can turn an order around within less lime if necessary.

Do you frame pictures that were purchased elsewhere?

Yes.

Will you fit pictures into ready made frames?

If you have an existing frame or a ready made frame and your picture is too small then we can cut and fit a mount.

Will you just cut mounts?

Yes.

How much does it cost?

The price of framing depends on many factors, size of picture, type of frame, if mounted what type of mount, number and size of mounts, type of glass, what needs to be framed. If you would like a guide price please contact us by phone 029 2061 9358 or e-mail, if you need an exact price we would need to see the item and discuss with you various framing options.

Do you frame on site?

Yes, most of the framing we do is done on site however we do have a second workshop and some of the framing is done there.

What types of glass are there?

There are many types of glass now available, please see our section under Framing glass types.

What types of payments do we accept?

We accept most payment methods such as Mastercard, Visa, Delta, Switch, Solo, American Express, cheques and cash.

Do you restore pictures or frames?

Unfortunately we do not offer this service, we can touch up frames but for a complete restore you would need to go to a specialist.

If you have any questions please phone The Gift Horse Gallery on 029 2061 9358 or e-mail the gallery.