How to Pick the Right Print Size

How to Pick the Right Print Size

(and Not Wreck It in the Process)

Hey, look at you, being all thoughtful and gifting art! Or maybe you’re finally treating yourself (as you should). Either way, let’s make sure you don’t end up with a print that’s too tiny to appreciate or too massive to fit anywhere without triggering a home décor meltdown.

Picking the right size isn’t just about what looks sexy online—it’s about what actually works on your wall, in your space, with your vibe. And once you have it, you’ll want to keep it looking fresh. Let’s get into it.

🎯 Picking the Perfect Print Size

Art prints are not one-size-fits-all. You wouldn’t buy shoes without knowing your size (we hope), so don’t just grab a random print and cross your fingers. Here’s how to not screw it up:

1. Consider the Space

Where’s this beauty going?

  • Tiny apartment or big, echo-y loft?
  • Statement piece or gallery wall situation?
  • High ceilings or cozy corners?

A massive print in a small space = chaos. A tiny print on a blank wall = sadness. Context is everything.

9 x 11 print size for referenceExample: Our 9” x 11” size is cute and versatile—but not gonna dominate a giant wall. Know what you’re working with.

2. Measure It Out (Yes, Literally)

Break out the measuring tape. Eyeballing it is how you end up with regret and extra holes in the wall.

If it’s for your space:

  • Tape out different print sizes on the wall with painter’s tape.
  • Step back. Live with it for a sec.
  • Too small? Too aggressive? Just right?

If it’s a gift:
You probably can’t measure someone else’s wall without being weird. Stick with these tried-and-true sizes:

  • 18” x 24” – Safe, solid, plays well with most walls.
  • 24” x 36” – Classic poster energy.
  • 36” x 48” – Big drama. Bold move. We support it.

 

20 x 16 print size for referenceExample: Our 20” x 16” print hits that sweet spot for bold without being bananas.

3. Match the Art to the Size

Not all art scales the same. Think before you click.

  • Super detailed? Go big or lose the magic.
  • Minimalist or type-based? Smaller sizes totally work.
  • Photography? Depends on contrast and detail. A moody black-and-white shot? Any size. A massive cityscape? Bigger is better.

 

Poster sizing examples for choosing the right size for your artVisual hack: We offer this size comparison guide to help you visualize the before you buy.

4. Don’t Forget the Frame (Seriously)

Frames change everything. They can elevate or suffocate your print.

  • Ornate frame? Makes everything feel bigger.
  • Minimal frame? Sleek and clean.
  • Gallery wall? Mix up sizes and frame styles for a curated chaos.
  • Gifting? Stick to standard sizes unless you know your giftee is down for a custom framing adventure (read: $$$).



24 x 36 print size for referenceExample: 24” x 36”. These prints look stunning with a thick mat and minimalist frame.


🛠 Keeping Your Prints in Top Shape

You got the right size. Now let’s not ruin it before it hits the wall.

1. Unboxing Like You’ve Done This Before

Your print comes rolled. That’s on purpose. Here’s how not to mess it up:

  • DO NOT go in with scissors like you’re disarming a bomb.
  • DO unroll it on a clean, flat surface.
  • DO NOT press down with your hands like you’re kneading dough. Prints don’t like that.

2. Flattening It Out

You’ve got two paths:

The Safe & Slow:

  • Lay it face down.
  • Stack clean, heavy books on top.
  • Wait a couple days. Let gravity do its job.

The Fast & Risky: (Not Advised, but here it is)

  • Gently roll it in the opposite direction.
  • Hold it for a minute.
  • Lay flat and apply light pressure.

⚠️ This is the espresso shot of print flattening: fast, effective, but chaotic if you’re not paying attention.

3. Frame for the Long Haul

Want it to last forever (or at least a few decades)?

  • Frame it. Protects against dust, pets, and clumsy humans.
  • Use UV-protected glass. Fights sun damage like a skincare ad.
  • Skip the bathroom. Unless you like steamy regrets.

4. If You’re Not Framing (No Judgment)

Some people like their art raw. Cool. Just:

  • Dust it occasionally.
  • Keep it out of direct sunlight.
  • Use damage-free wall mounts. Your landlord will thank you.

 

Fine Art Prints for Sale at Smart Sassery Gift Shop

🏁 Final Thoughts

To recap, you're now equipped to:

✅ Pick the right size without guessing
✅ Unbox your print without maiming it
✅ Keep it looking fresh, framed or not

Whether you’re gifting, upgrading your space, or just here because your wall was giving “bland corporate vibes,” you’re making moves—and we love that for you.

Go hang that art. Make that space yours.