Selecting the perfect print size for your home can be the difference between a piece of art that enhances your space and one that feels out of place. Whether you're adding a statement piece above your sofa or a subtle accent to a hallway, the right size will help your artwork harmonize with your interior design. Here’s a guide to choosing the ideal print size for your home.
1. Consider the Space and Furniture
The first step is to assess the space where you plan to hang your artwork. A print should be proportionate to the furniture and surrounding decor. As a general rule:
Above a sofa, bed, or console table: The artwork should be about two-thirds to three-quarters of the width of the furniture below it.
On an empty wall: Larger walls can handle bigger prints, while narrow walls or smaller spaces may require a more compact piece.
2. Measure Your Wall
Before purchasing a print, measure the width and height of your wall. If you're unsure about sizing, use painter’s tape or paper cutouts to visualize different print dimensions in the space.
3. Standard Print Sizes and Their Best Uses
Here are some common print sizes and where they work best:
- 24" x 36" – A versatile size for smaller accent walls, home offices, or paired in a gallery-style arrangement.
- 30" x 45" – Ideal for above a desk, in a hallway, or as a focal point in a small room.
- 40" x 60" – A great choice for larger living room walls, above a fireplace, or in a dining area.
- 48" x 72" – A bold statement piece that works well above a large sofa or bed.
- 30" x 60" or 40" x 80" – These panoramic sizes are perfect for above a king-sized bed or along a hallway.
- 20" x 60" or 30" x 90" – Tall, narrow prints that fit well in tight vertical spaces.
4. Balance with Other Elements
Your print should complement, not overwhelm, your space. If you already have other artwork, consider how they interact. A single large piece can act as a centerpiece, while multiple smaller pieces create a cohesive gallery wall.
5. Consider Viewing Distance
The further away the viewer stands, the larger the print should be. For example, a small print might get lost in a spacious living room, while a large print could feel too imposing in a small hallway.
6. Try a virtual mock-up
Creating a mock-up design of your space is a great way to determine the best size of print while also helping you choose the artwork that would best compliment your space. We're pleased to offer a free mock-up service on this website to help make the process of selecting your print easier.
7. Use a Print Size Calculator
To simplify the process, you can use an interactive print size calculator to determine the best size for your space. By entering your wall or furniture dimensions, the tool recommends an ideal print size, taking the guesswork out of your decision.
My website features a simple-to-use print size calculator tailored to the available sizes I offer, helping you find the perfect fit effortlessly. Give it a try and take the guesswork out of selecting the right size for your home!
And here are brief instructions on how to use the calculator:
- Measure the width and height of the wall or furniture where you plan to hang the artwork.
- Enter the measured width (in inches) into the "Wall/Furniture Width" field.
- Enter the measured height (in inches) into the "Wall/Furniture Height" field.
- Click the "Calculate Best Print Size" button.
- The calculator will provide a recommended print size that best fits your space.