Start With the Right Kind of Help
Whether you are commissioning work, collecting a finished edition, or looking after prints already on your wall, we keep the process clear from the first enquiry. Clients across Woodstock, Sea Point, Newlands, Stellenbosch, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban often come to us with the same questions: how an edition is planned, what proofing involves, and how to care for a print in South African conditions. We answer each project on its own terms, because stone lithography is a hands-on process and no two editions are handled exactly the same.
If you are unsure where to begin, send your query through the contact page enquiry form and we will direct you to the right next step. That may be a studio visit, a discussion about paper, or advice on framing and packing for transport.
Understanding Stone Lithography and the Edition
Working from a prepared limestone surface, stone lithography is a traditional printmaking method that holds the image on the stone for printing onto paper. The artist draws or works directly on the stone with lithographic materials, and the image is then fixed so it can be printed onto paper. It is valued for its fine mark-making, tonal depth and the way colour can be built up in layers. Each stone carries its own character, so the printing stage matters just as much as the drawing stage.
In an edition, a set number of prints is agreed before production begins. This helps keep the work consistent and gives collectors confidence that every impression comes from the same approved run. We also manage signing and numbering, edition planning and proofing sessions so the final set reflects the artist’s intention.
- Edition size is agreed before printing starts
- Proofs are checked for colour and registration
- Final prints are signed and numbered
- Any working proofs are handled separately where required
Proofing, Colour and Paper Choices
Proofing is where the print is tested and refined. We use it to check colour balance, stone registration and the overall feel of the image before the edition is run. For multi-colour work, colour separation must be carefully planned so each layer lands in the right place. A small change in paper or pressure can affect the result, especially on detailed imagery, so paper consultation is a useful part of the process.
We keep the conversation practical. Some papers suit bold colour better, while others hold subtle grey tones or fine line work more cleanly. We will also talk through how the print will be displayed, because framing and light exposure affect the final appearance over time.
Care for Prints in South African Homes
South African conditions call for simple, sensible print care. Coastal humidity in places like Cape Town and Durban can affect paper, while strong sun and heat can fade work if it is not protected. A little care goes a long way.
- Keep prints out of direct sunlight
- Frame with archival mount board and glazing where suitable
- Avoid damp walls, kitchens and bathrooms
- Store unframed prints flat in clean, dry conditions
- Handle only with clean dry hands or cotton gloves
If you are unsure about a print already in your collection, bring details of the paper, frame and exposure history and we can advise on next steps. A quick check now can prevent damage later.
Packing, Framing and Collector Advice
We assist with archival packing, framing coordination and advice for collectors who need work moved safely between cities. When a print is travelling from Woodstock to Pretoria or Johannesburg, good packing matters as much as the print itself. Corners should be protected, moisture kept out, and the work supported so it does not shift in transit.
For framed work, we can help you consider glass type, mount spacing and hanging placement. For unframed work, we can advise on storage before framing so the sheet stays in good condition. It is often the small practical choices that protect value over time.
Studio Visits and Working With Our Team
Studio visits are arranged for clients who want to see the process up close or discuss a project in person. Our team in Woodstock includes Shailen Naicker, Nomvula Phalatse, Stefan Hattingh, Rukshana Kamaar, Bonga Mngadi and Tegan Jacobs, and each person plays a part in keeping an edition on track. From stone preparation to final packing, the work is carefully coordinated.
If you are planning a visit, use the enquiry form to tell us what you need and where you are based. We will let you know what can be discussed on site and what information to bring along so the meeting is useful from the start.
- Commission enquiries
- Artist and collector support
- Edition updates and proof approvals
- Framing and packing questions
- Studio visit requests