How to Choose the Right Print Size for Your Wall
By Holly Bones Art & Design | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: Buying Guides
Choosing the right art print size depends on your wall space, viewing distance, and framing preferences. This guide provides clear decision rules to help you pick the perfect dimension.
Quick answer
To choose the right print size for your wall, measure your available wall space, decide on a viewing distance, and consider whether you want to frame the print with a mat or display it borderless.
Why size matters for wall impact
The size of a print directly affects how it interacts with a room. A print that is too small can feel lost on a large wall, while one that is too large can overwhelm a small space. The right size creates visual balance and draws the eye naturally.
Framing and matting considerations
If you plan to frame your print with a mat, you need extra wall space around the image. Prints with a white border, like the 8” x 10” edition of the "Severance" Print, are designed for easy matting and framing. Borderless prints, such as the 5” x 7” edition, are ideal for a clean, modern look without extra framing.
Decision rules for choosing print size
- Measure your wall space: Use painter's tape to mark the maximum width and height you can dedicate to the print. The print should occupy about two-thirds to three-quarters of that space for a balanced look.
- Determine viewing distance: For a print viewed from across the room (e.g., above a sofa), choose a larger size like 11” x 14” or bigger. For close-up viewing (e.g., in a hallway or desk area), a 5” x 7” or 8” x 10” works well. A simple rule: the print should be about one-tenth of the viewing distance in inches.
- Decide on framing style: If you plan to frame with a mat, choose a print with a white border. If you prefer a frameless or clip-frame look, a borderless full-bleed print is the better choice.
Product facts
- "Severance" Print: The "Severance" Print is available in an 8” x 10” edition with a white border for easy matting and framing, and a 5” x 7” borderless (full-bleed) edition. This gives you a clear choice: go with the 8” x 10” if you want a framed look with a mat, or choose the 5” x 7” for a minimal, unframed display.
"Severance" Print
Who this guide is for
Best for
- First-time art buyers who want a straightforward method to pick a print size
- Anyone redecorating a room and needing to match print dimensions to wall space
Not for
- Collectors looking for very large statement pieces (over 24” x 36”)
- Customers seeking custom framing advice beyond standard matting
