FinerWorks virtual inventory is a system that allows artists and photographers to save their artwork as pre-configured products within their FinerWorks account. Instead of having to re-upload and set up a print’s specifications (like size, paper type, and framing) every time an order comes in, a virtual inventory item acts like a blueprint for a product. This streamlines the print-on-demand and order fulfillment process.
How It Works
The system is designed to simplify selling on third-party platforms like Shopify, Squarespace, WooCommerce or Etsy. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
- Create Virtual Inventory Items: An artist uploads their digital image to FinerWorks. They then create a virtual inventory item from this image, which involves specifying all the product details like size, print medium (e.g., giclée fine art paper, canvas), and framing options. Each virtual inventory item is assigned a unique **SKU** (Stock Keeping Unit) that begins with “AP”.
- Sync with an Online Store: The artist lists the product in their own online store (e.g., a framed print of their artwork). When they create the listing, they enter the unique SKU from FinerWorks’ virtual inventory into the SKU field of their store’s product variant.
- Order Fulfillment: When a customer purchases the product from the artist’s online store, the order is transmitted to FinerWorks through an integration app (e.g., for Shopify or Etsy). FinerWorks uses the SKU to identify the exact product from the virtual inventory and produces it on demand.
- Shipping and Branding: FinerWorks then prints, packages, and ships the product directly to the customer. The packing slip and shipping label can be customized with the artist’s name and logo, making it appear as though the order was shipped directly from them.
Key Advantages
- Efficiency: It eliminates the need for artists to manually set up each print each time they order, saving a significant amount of time, especially for those with high order volumes or who sell the same products repeatedly.
- Print on Demand: Artists don’t need to hold physical inventory. Prints are only created when an order is placed, reducing waste and financial risk.
- Integration: It connects an artist’s online storefront with FinerWorks’ fulfillment center, creating a smooth, automated workflow from sale to delivery.
Order HD Face Mounted Acrylic Prints
Printed on high-quality photo paper and face mounted to 1/4″ acrylic with polished edges. Choose between satin luster or metallic photo paper. Included is easy-to-install hanging hardware in the form of a French cleat.