Visualising the Size of Your Print

How do I visualise the size of my print?

This is a common issue that many buyers of artwork face, so I've put together a few ideas below to help you make up your mind:

• The common sizes I sell are 7" x 5" (approx. 17.8cm x 12.7cm), 9" x 7" (22.9cm x 17.8cm) and 10" x 8" (25.4cm x 20.3cm, the most common and a good compromise), but if you have in mind a larger or smaller size, please get in touch here.
• The first step I would take, is get a ruler that has inch measurements (the general standard in the US) and look how big the size is when you measure it out. Place one of your thumbs on the '0' and the other thumb on the measurement you are thinking of buying.
• If you can't find a rule with inches on, please use the conversions I've listed on the point above.
• If you find it hard to visualise this then get a pen or pencil and piece of paper and draw the size out. It doesn't have to be a work of art itself, just good enough for you to have a rough idea.
• Don't forget, if you want to have a mount - the card that has a window that sits on top of your picture - then this area will probably increase by 1.5 inches (3.8cm) all around. Therefore, your inside frame dimension is now 10" x 8". Also, the thickness of your frame will also increase the impact and size of your artwork.
• So, for a 7" x 5" print or original (approx. 17.8cm x 12.7cm), the actual size of the inside of the frame will be at least 10 x 8 (25.4cm x 20.3cm) or bigger if you would like a bigger 'margin' all around.
• I would always recommend the 10" x 8" size of print if you are unsure. This can be framed at a decent size either with or without a mount and will fit into a standard 10" x 8" frame (which you can easily purchase from many online and physical stores).
• There are other considerations; if you are buying the print as a gift and want it framed - but don't want the expense of having it specially done - I'd again go with the bigger print and standard sized frame and do it yourself (please see here for more help).
• Each picture I sell has a suggested frame and mount size for your image. Just check the additional images on the item in my Art Shop for more help.
• Finally, have a look around your home at your existing artwork. You will be surprised how big the frame and overall picture look for a 7" x 5" with a generous mount!

Further help

• Please see this blog here for more details on how to get the correct size etc. of mount and frame.
• See this blog if you want to physically frame it yourself.
• Email me for any other enquiries, I'll be pleased to help!

Next: Hanging your newly-framed artwork in your home (to be published November 2023).