Size and Framing Advice

Print Size Examples with Logo
Size Guide
Selecting your print size based on your hanging location.
  • Above a two-seater lounge:
    90cm x 60cm to 120cm x 80cm
    36"x 24" to 48"x 32"
  • Above a three-seater lounge:
    120cm x 80cm to 150cm x 100cm
    48"x 32" to 60"x 40"
  • Above a queen-sized bed:
    120cm x 80cm
    48"x 32"
  • Above a king-sized bed:
    150cm x 100cm
    60"x 40"
  • In a reading nook or office:
    30cm x 20cm to 60cm x 40cm
    12"x 8"  to  24"x 16"


If you're on a budget, even the smaller prints look wonderful on a large wall. Their vibrance prevents them from becoming 'lost' or 'dwarfed'.

Things to consider

Do you have lots of wall space?

  • Large prints leave a lasting impression.
  • Small prints can work well when displayed as a collection.
  • Consider pairing a print with a hanging object for an eclectic aesthetic.

High ceilings

  • For best results select one or more vertical prints.
  • Vertical prints are very flattering. This will accentuate your ceiling height by guiding the eye upwards.

Minimal wall space

  • 30cm x 20cm (12"x 8"), 45cm x 30cm (18"x 12"), 60cm x 40cm (24"x 16") and square prints are perfect for small spaces.
  • Alternatively, a strip or gallery display can transform a small space into a feature wall, e.g.

      
  

    Framing Guide for Archival Paper

    Frame Colour
    When selecting your frame colour there are two key aspects to keep in mind: the colours in your print and the colours of your furniture, decor and walls.

    Choosing a frame based on the colours in your print:

    • Prints comprised of mostly warm colours (such as yellow, orange and red) look lovely framed in timber or mocha.
    • Prints comprised of mostly cool colours and pastels (such as blue, green, pink, purple and white) look lovely framed in black or white.

    Choosing a frame based on the colours in your furniture, decor and walls:

    • Timber frames compliment coastal aesthetics.
    • Mocha frames compliment country aesthetics.
    • White and black frames compliment contemporary décor.

    Utilize samples and use your best judgement. Some rules are made to be broken, if in doubt, sleep on it!

    Glass Quality

    It's absolutely worth investing in quality glass. Selecting quality glass maintains detail clarity and colour vibrance for future generations to admire.

    Standard or low-quality glass will soften crisp detail and allow the print to fade. 

    When purchasing glass, consider the environment your print will hang in, prioritize the features most essential to this environment. Ideally, you want them all!

    Features to look for:

    • High transparency
      Clear, high-quality glass maintains the clarity we see with our eyes. Whereas standard glass can be likened to looking through a fuzzy lens.
    • Low reflection
      You’ll want to see your print not your surroundings reflected on the glass.
    • 99% UV protection
      UV protection keeps your print brighter for longer, preventing the discoloration and fading caused be long term exposure to bright light. 


    Most framers provide four variations of glass: Museum Glass, Conservation Glass, Non-Reflective Glass and Standard Glass. Different companies may call them by different names but it’s the features you’re looking for.

    Mat Board

    Mat Board is a thick piece of cardboard that sits on top of and surrounds the artwork. It provides a small lift to prevent the glass from sticking to the print.

      


    I recommend using Mat Board. If sticking occurs the print can tear on removal.

    Mat Board comes in a rainbow of colours and textures. Even white comes in upwards of six variations, so be sure to view their full selection to best match your print.

    The amount of mat board visible between the artwork and the frame is referred to as the width. 

    Width can be calculated by your framer. Ask the framer to simulate the width by placing a sample of mat board over the edge of your print, then a sample of frame over the mat board. 

    When deciding on a width consider the other framed works in your home; do they have Mat Board? What are their widths? You may want to match these to maintain a flow within your home.

    Hanging and Lighting Guide

    Hanging

    Consider the surface you’ll be securing the hangers too, e.g. plaster, timber, concrete, metal. Each surface requires different hardware. For more details consult with your local hardware store.

    For professional picture hanging systems, that allow for versatility and minimal wall damage, you could consider a supplier such as Artiteq. You can browse their website here: Picture hanging systems - Artiteq Picture rails and picture hanging systems

    Lighting

    It isn't essential to install spotlighting, however, if your goal is drama, proper lighting will enhance atmosphere and print vibrancy.

    Direct the light evenly around your artwork to prevent glare on the glass or acrylic surface.

    Here's a guide to determine the number of spotlights:

    • One spotlight for 30cm x 20cm (12"x 8"), 45cm x 30cm (18"x 12"), 60cm x 40cm (24"x 16")
    • Two spotlights for 90cm x 60cm (36"x 24")
    • Three spotlights for 120cm x 80cm (48"x 32")
    • Four spotlights for 150cm x 100cm (60"x 40")

    A dimmer can be installed for mood lighting.