Question Z-Gel

[Tommy P]

I've known of this stuff for awhile but wondered if anyone uses this Z-Gel or EZ-Luster product and why you do. Is this a product that has some value to my customers? Can it take the place of laminating when glass is not used? Does it create a special effect (brushstrokes) to a print that is satisfactory? Etc, etc.

Always trying to expand my offerings. If they are worthy.

Thanks
Tom

 

[Beveled]

I can't answer all of your questions, however, I use ZGel on my own giclee prints on canvas. The prints have a matte surface which I don't like, so by using the texture coat, it gives it a little gloss and they really look like original oils. It enables you to create brushstrokes if desired.

I have also used it on mounted posters. It is nice for that as well. It supposedly has some protectant qualities, but I would contact the manufacturer to get details on that.

Obviously, you wouldnt use this on limited prints, as it changes the integrity of the edition. But we do use it on posters and my own giclee prints.

 

[Jim Miller]

I use that type of product as an adhesive more often than I use it as an image coating.

As a coating product -- which is the intended use of Z-Gel -- it does enable one to impart the texture of brushstrokes on an image. Its value in providing mechanical protection or filtering UV light is not comparable to using glass or acrylic, though.

It is great for texturizing posters and other replaceable images, but the coating would permanently change the art's condition, so it is not acceptable for any level of preservation framing.

 

[Rob Markoff]

I am a big fan of all of the offerings from Z Hardware. The Z-Gel is used by manufacturers in the decorative framed art market and is widely accepted in the home furnishings market for DECORATIVE art.

You can do great things with it- a variety of textures are possible. Brush strokes are up to you, just using a nappy roller yields great results. We have coated pieces and added brush strokes without canvas transferring with great results.

At the WCAF they were also showing their new "Lustre" finish which is applied with a foam brush and flows to a smooth Lustre finish.

Another big hit (and fun to do) is their Z-Crackle finish. New at the show were their metallic toners which allow for other possibilities than the antique brown to fill the crackle. There were great examples there and the booth demos were packed.

One think I love about this company if the personal attention that any framer can receive from them to guide you to achieve excellent results. If you call them, they will talk to you - Andrea is an expert!

However, I caution you to cut up some old posters (or magazines) and PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE before you attempt anything new on a customer's piece.

 

[DTWDSM]

I am another strong believer in this product, we buy it by the gallons! Customers love it for multiple reasons including, it gives a poster the "canvas look" without the canvas price, we use the semi-gloss so there is no glare, and best of all, it is light weight so a customer can hang their oversize abstract easily above the fireplace.

We charge the same price as CC glass and have no price issues since it has a perceived value that is more than glass.

As Rob said, you do need to practice with it to see how it works but once mastered it is a very profitable product.