scanartwork.com

What it is

THE BIG SCAN (scanartwork.com) is a premium large-format scanning, digital restoration, and custom printing service under Parrot Digigraphic, based in Boston, USA. It specializes in professional-grade digitization for extra-large original artwork, and serves professional clients globally.

Core Services & Pricing

Its core business covers four main categories:

1. Cruse large-format scanning: Supports originals up to 48×72 inches per pass; larger pieces can be completed via multiple scans and stitching.
2. Large-format film and glass plate negative scanning: Supports originals up to 12×18 inches.
3. Professional retouching and digital restoration for aging or damaged original works.
4. Custom large-format printing on a range of media: Supports prints up to 64 inches wide, with substrate options including canvas, watercolor paper, photo paper, and more.

Pricing is clear and transparent:

• Scanning is priced by the longest edge of the final output, ranging from $110 to $250; pieces over 72 inches are quoted on request.
• Restoration and retouching is billed at a flat rate of $150 per hour.
• A $12 storage media fee is added per order.
• Printing services are quoted separately.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The service uses industry-leading Cruse Synchron scanning equipment, with scan quality, efficiency, and original work safety that outperforms traditional solutions.
• The team has decades of experience in color management and output, and can handle special requests such as scanning framed artwork.
• End-to-end service means clients don't need to coordinate with multiple separate vendors.

Cons:

• The service only has physical facilities in the United States. Users based in China need to ship their original works internationally, which carries risks of shipping damage and customs clearance issues.
• Communication is hindered by time zone differences.
• Overall pricing is on the high side for casual users.

Who it's for & accessibility from China

The website can be accessed directly from China with normal loading speed. It is a great fit for Chinese professional art institutions and auction houses with high-end large-format scanning and printing needs. For individual casual users, the cost and entry barrier are both quite high.