Limited Editions vs. Open Editions: What’s the Difference?

|Catherine Hebert
Limited Editions vs. Open Editions: What’s the Difference?

If you've browsed the shop, you may have noticed some prints are marked "limited edition" while others aren’t. So what’s the actual difference—and why does it matter?

Open Editions

Open edition prints are always available, and I can reprint them as long as I keep offering that piece in the shop. They’re printed using the same archival inks and fine art paper as everything else I make.

Woodhouse the Cat with a The Ugly Cat Frame

Woodhouse himself inspecting a framed open edition print.

To help keep things sustainable and affordable, I partner with trusted fine art studios in the U.S. and Canada to print and frame open editions (see frame details). They use the same high-quality materials and standards I’d use myself—and working with them allows me to reach more people without compromising on quality.

You’ll find many of my best-known pieces in the open edition collection, including favourites from the cat and dog portraits, colorful cats, and woodland wildlife series.

These are great if you’re new to art collecting or just want to grab a piece you love without worrying it will disappear. You can fall in love with a print today and come back next month when you're ready—no rush.

"Willie - Limited Edition" by Catherine Hébert - George Patton's Bull Terrier Willie - Signed Limited Edition

Signed and numbered limited edition

Limited Editions

Limited editions are a bit different. Once they're gone, they're gone! I only release a fixed number of prints (the edition size is listed on the product page), and each one is hand-numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

"Willie - Limited Edition" by Catherine Hébert - George Patton's Bull Terrier Willie - Signed Limited Edition

The Certificate of Authenticity that comes with the limited prints

These prints are printed in-house on our Canon imagePROGRAF 1000 printer using archival inks and Hahnemühle Photo Rag paper. They cost a bit more than open editions because they’re exclusive, collectible, and produced in smaller quantities with even more attention to detail. You can explore what’s currently available in the limited edition collection—including upcoming launches and past releases that have already sold out.

The Ugly Cat's Fine Art Printer, with some greeting cards and other equipment

Our trusty Canon imagePROGRAF 1000 printer!

Why Do Artists Even Do Limited Editions?

A limited edition is a way to make a piece feel more special, more intentional. It’s not just about scarcity—it’s about framing the artwork as something collectible. As an artist, releasing a limited edition gives me the chance to slow down and give extra care to each print: checking colour accuracy, trimming by hand, numbering and signing, and packaging them up with a certificate of authenticity. It’s a more intimate process.

It also allows me to experiment. Some limited editions are pieces that wouldn’t make sense to offer year-round—maybe they’re seasonal, maybe they’re extra detailed, maybe they only work at a certain size. Limiting the run means I can pour more into each one without needing to scale it indefinitely.

And for collectors, it means you’re getting something that only a small number of people will ever own.

Which Should You Choose?

It really comes down to how you connect with the art. If something speaks to you and it’s a limited edition—don’t wait! They’re often only available for a short window and won’t be reprinted in the same size or format again. If you're just looking for a fun new piece to brighten a corner of your home, an open edition might be perfect.

You can browse all our open edition prints here, and if you’re curious what’s available now or coming up soon, check out the limited editions section!

And if you're ever unsure, feel free to reach out—I'm always happy to help you find the right piece.