What is an artist proof (AP)?

Artist proofs are prints set aside from the main edition for the artist's personal use or sale. Traditionally 10% of the edition size. They are numbered A/P 1/5 etc. and often command a higher price than the main edition as they are rarer.

How do you number a print edition?

Each print is numbered as a fraction: the top number is the individual print number, the bottom is the total edition size. For example, 3/25 means the third print in an edition of 25. The number does not indicate printing order.

What are printer proofs?

Printer proofs (P/P) are prints given to the printing studio or master printer as part of the collaboration agreement. Typically 1-3 prints. They are marked P/P and are separate from the edition and artist proofs.

Should I offer early bird pricing?

An early bird discount of 10-15% on the first 20% of an edition encourages early sales and builds momentum. This is common practice for emerging artists launching a new edition. The discount should be clearly communicated as limited.

ArtCalcs

Edition Numbering Calculator \u2014 Print Runs, APs & Pricing

Calculate edition numbering, artist proofs and pricing tiers for print runs.

Edition Size

Number of prints in main edition

Artist Proof %

Percentage of edition for APs

Printer Proofs

Proofs for the printer/studio

Edition Price

Price per print in main edition

How We Calculate This

This calculator works out the total number of prints in an edition including artist proofs and printer proofs, with pricing tiers and revenue estimation.

How it works

Artist proofs are calculated as a percentage of the main edition. Pricing tiers include a standard edition price, a higher AP price (typically 1.5x), and an optional early bird discount on the first 20% of the edition. Total revenue is estimated from all tiers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.