Frequently asked questions
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What is a limited edition print?
A limited-edition print offers the pleasure of owning artwork that belongs to a deliberately limited collection. Each print has its own edition number, identifying its place within that edition.
My limited editions are produced in a fixed quantity at a specific size. Once an edition sells out, it will not be reprinted in the same size, making each one a more exclusive way to enjoy my photographic art.
Each limited-edition print includes my signature and its individual edition number, both printed onto the artwork rather than added by hand. It is also supplied with a certificate of authenticity.
Open-edition prints have no fixed limit on quantity. They are individually printed to the same quality as my limited editions, but are not signed or numbered and do not come with a certificate of authenticity.⠋
Do the print dimensions include the border?
Yes, the stated print size includes the white border. For example, an A4 print has an overall paper size of A4, including the border, rather than an A4 image with a border added outside it.
Border widths depend on the collection and print size:
The Blue Beyond and Ethereal Shores
A1: 60mm
A2: 50mm
A3: 40mm
A4: 30mm
A5: 15mm
Between Sea and Sky
A1: 50mm
A2: 40mm
A3: 30mm
A4: 25mm
A5: 15mm
Choose a frame to match the overall paper size of your print. If you’re adding a mount, use the border measurements above to help plan the opening, or ask your framer for advice.
Does my print come framed?
No, all artwork is supplied as a print only. Frames and mounts are not included, and I don’t offer a framing service.
My prints are available in standard A-series sizes, from A5 to A1, making it easier to find a ready-made frame to suit your home and budget. Before buying a frame, check the dimensions and any border information on your chosen print’s product page.
Any framed images shown on the website are for display inspiration only, to help you imagine the artwork in your home.
Do you offer bespoke sizes?
Yes, I’m happy to discuss bespoke sizes. The largest size available depends on the original image and the print quality I can achieve.
I can also explore a different crop, such as a portrait or panoramic format, where the image allows. This means removing parts of the original composition to suit the new proportions.
Please email sarahw@thegatheringbee.com with the artwork you’re interested in and your preferred dimensions, and I’ll let you know what’s possible.
How should i unpack and care for my print?
Unpack your print on a clean, dry surface, with clean, dry hands. Handle it by the edges and avoid touching the printed surface.
Carefully remove the packaging, using the protective wrapping to support the print. If it arrives rolled, allow it to relax naturally. Don’t roll it in the opposite direction or place heavy objects directly on it. A professional framer can help with handling and flattening if needed.
Keep your print in its protective packaging until you’re ready to frame it. Choose a frame with protective glazing, and use a mount or spacers to keep the printed surface from touching the glass.
Display your artwork away from direct sunlight, damp areas and sources of heat to help preserve its colours and paper.
What materials do you use?
My prints are produced to order by my specialist print partner, theprintspace, using giclée printing and a carefully managed colour process to reproduce the colours and detail of my photographic artwork.
I use Hahnemühle German Etching, a heavyweight 310gsm fine art paper with a softly textured, watercolour-style surface. Its tactile finish adds depth and character to each print.
Made from 100% alpha-cellulose, the paper is acid- and lignin-free and meets ISO 9706 standards for age resistance. It is chosen for both its distinctive texture and its lasting quality.
For advice on protecting your artwork, please see the print-care information on the product page.
How long will my item take to arrive and what are the shipping costs?
Your limited-edition print is dispatched using a delivery service suited to your destination. The prices and estimated delivery times below are from ordering.
UK
Free delivery when you spend £60 or more on art prints, after discounts. For art-print orders below £60, delivery is £6.45. Gift-card purchases don’t count towards the £60 minimum.
Estimated delivery: 3–7 days.
Germany
Delivery: £6.45. Estimated delivery: 3–7 days.
Other European destinations
Delivery: £12.50. Estimated delivery: 4–10 days.
Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland
Delivery: £16.75. Estimated delivery: 4–10 days.
USA
Delivery: £24.50. Estimated delivery: 6–10 days.
Canada
Delivery: £35.00. Estimated delivery: 6–10 days.
Australia and New Zealand
Delivery: £65.79. Estimated delivery: 5–15 days.
Rest of world
Delivery: £65.79. Estimated delivery: 5–15 days.
What happens when my order is placed and can i track it?
When your print is dispatched, you’ll receive a shipping notification from The Gathering Bee, with a tracking link where available.
Tracking information varies by delivery method. Standard postal services may offer limited tracking or no tracking link. Please see our delivery FAQ for estimated delivery times.
Will i need to pay any import taxes?
UK, USA and EU
Our print partner fulfils these orders from its hubs in the UK, USA and Germany, according to the delivery destination. There are no import duties or border charges to pay on delivery.
Other destinations
Your country may charge import taxes or customs duties when your print arrives. These charges aren’t included in your order payment. If charges apply, the courier will contact you to arrange payment before delivery.
Do you have a sustainibility policy?
My love of nature shapes both my artwork and the choices I make for my business. I aim to create lasting prints while choosing materials and suppliers thoughtfully.
My prints are made to order on Hahnemühle German Etching paper. Hahnemühle states that the cellulose used in its papers comes from sustainably managed forests, using FSC- or PEFC-certified fibres.
My print partner uses packaging materials that are sustainably sourced, recyclable or biodegradable. It also describes its printing and delivery service as carbon neutral, using renewable energy and carbon offsetting to address its emissions.
For me, sustainability is an ongoing commitment to thoughtful sourcing, reducing waste and creating artwork to enjoy for years to come.
What is your returns policy?
For return and cancellation details, please see our Refund policy.
To start a request, sign in to your customer account. If your print arrives damaged, defective or incorrect, please contact sarahw@thegatheringbee.com.
What is your creative process?
This is a lovely insight into the work behind your art. I’d keep the personal detail and enthusiasm, but smooth out the wording. Keep the heading and replace the answer with:
My creative process starts with a vision: finding a location that offers the colours, light and atmosphere I want to express through my art. I’m drawn to remote coastlines and beautiful beaches, where the landscape helps shape the mood of each piece.
I spend many hours with my camera, exploring a technique called intentional camera movement, or ICM. By moving the camera during an exposure, I create the painterly, impressionist effects that I love. No two images are the same, and experimenting is part of the joy.
Back at home, I carefully select and develop the images. This stage can involve combining photographs and exposures, adding dreamy textures and refining colours to bring my original vision to life.
The final, and most exciting, stage is seeing the finished artwork in print. Giclée printing brings out the colours and fine details, while the softly textured Hahnemühle German Etching paper adds a tactile quality that complements my photographic art.