Art Print Sizes Explained: Pick the Right Fit

Selecting the right art print size is the difference between a piece that quietly disappears and one that transforms a room. This guide demystifies common art print sizes, aspect ratios, scale by room, and how framing affects final dimensions. By the end, you will know exactly which size to pick and why.

The size systems you will see when shopping

Most art stores list sizes in three families. Knowing which is which makes decisions much easier.

• A‑series paper sizes, used widely in the UK and Europe. These follow the ISO 216 standard with a consistent aspect ratio of approximately 1 to 1.414. See the background on the ISO 216 standard.
• Metric poster sizes, for example 30 x 40 cm, 50 x 70 cm, 60 x 90 cm.
• Imperial photo sizes in inches, such as 12 x 16 in, 16 x 20 in, 18 x 24 in, 24 x 36 in.

At dreamprint.art, many artworks are available in multiple options, so you can pick the format that fits your wall and your framing preference. If you already know what you want, browse popular size collections like A3 prints, A2 prints, and 50 x 70 cm prints.

Quick reference: common art print sizes

All conversions use 1 inch equals 2.54 cm and are rounded to one decimal place for clarity.

Tip, if you already own a frame, choose a print that matches the frame’s window size or use a mount to adapt the print to the frame.

Aspect ratios explained, so you avoid unwanted cropping

Aspect ratio is the relationship between width and height. Choosing a print size that matches the artwork’s aspect ratio avoids white bars or trimming.

• 1:1 square, common for minimal and graphic works. Examples, 30 x 30 cm, 50 x 50 cm. See our Square art prints.
• 4:3, gentle rectangle that suits photography and many illustrations. Examples, 12 x 16 in, 18 x 24 in.
• 3:2, classic 35 mm photo ratio for a slightly wider feel. Examples, 24 x 36 in, 30 x 45 cm.
• 4:5, popular portrait orientation for art and photography. Examples, 8 x 10 in, 16 x 20 in, 40 x 50 cm.
• √2:1 A‑series, the A4, A3, A2, A1 family. Examples, A3, A2, A1. Explore A3 prints and A2 prints.
• Panoramic 3:1 or wider, dramatic wide compositions. Examples, 12 x 36 in, 30 x 90 cm. See Panoramic prints.

If you love a specific artwork, check which sizes it is offered in. dreamprint.art lists compatible sizes for each piece, so your selection keeps the artist’s composition intact.

How big should your print be for each space?

Use these practical rules to get the proportions right first time.

• Above furniture, aim for artwork width around 60 to 75 percent of the furniture width. This creates a visually anchored composition without feeling cramped.
• Add breathing room, leave at least 8 to 15 cm of space from the edge of furniture or an adjacent wall. Increase the gap for larger frames.
• Hanging height, centre the artwork roughly at eye level, about 145 to 155 cm from the floor to the centre point, then adjust for seating height and sightlines.

For layouts using multiple pieces, see our in‑depth guide on how to create the perfect gallery wall.

Quick picks by placement

Remember, larger prints tend to simplify decision making for big walls. If you are unsure, scale up one size, the room usually swallows it nicely.

Framing and mounts change the final footprint

A frame and mount add visual presence and physical size. Plan for this before you buy, especially when space is tight.

• Frame width, slim profiles add about 1 to 2 cm per side to the mount size, chunkier profiles can add 3 cm or more per side.
• Mounts (mats), a classic look uses 4 to 6 cm borders for smaller prints and 6 to 10 cm for large prints. The mount borders are added on all sides.
• Final outer size, roughly equals print size plus twice the mount width plus twice the frame face width. Example, a 50 x 70 cm print with a 6 cm mount and a 2 cm frame adds about 16 cm to each dimension, ending near 66 x 86 cm overall.

If you want a fuss free result, choose our Framed prints. They arrive ready to hang, with profiles and finishes selected to suit contemporary interiors.

Choosing between A‑series and 50 x 70 cm or 24 x 36 in

• Choose A‑series when you want predictable upgrades. A4 to A3 to A2 to A1 scales smoothly because the ratio stays constant. Perfect for sets.
• Choose 50 x 70 cm if you like the European poster look. It sits between A2 and A1 in impact and is one of the easiest sizes to frame and place above furniture. Explore 50 x 70 cm prints.
• Choose 24 x 36 in for bold, gallery scale presence in larger living rooms. This 3:2 format reads wide and dramatic.
• Choose square when you want symmetry or when the subject is graphic and central. Shop our Square art prints.
• Choose panoramic for corridors, above beds, or anywhere a wide cinematic sweep complements the architecture. See Panoramic prints.

Orientation, subject and colour affect perceived size

A landscape piece often feels calmer and wider, great above sofas and beds. Portrait pieces feel taller, ideal for alcoves, between windows or where you want vertical energy. High contrast art and bold colour blocks read larger from across the room, while delicate line work and muted palettes reward closer viewing and can be used at smaller sizes.

A simple sizing workflow you can use today

• Measure your wall or the furniture below the art. Note the available width and height.
• Multiply the furniture width by 0.6 to 0.75 to get a target artwork width.
• Check aspect ratio. Pick a size that matches the piece’s native ratio to avoid cropping.
• Account for framing. Add your planned mount and frame widths to ensure the final outer size fits.
• Tape a paper template to the wall. It is the fastest way to confirm scale and height before you order.

Print quality and resolution, what actually matters

If you are printing your own photography, aim for around 300 ppi at the final size for crisp detail. Adobe’s guidance on image size and resolution explains how to check this. If you are purchasing from dreamprint.art, we handle production details for you, so you can focus on the aesthetic and the right size for your space.

Common size combos for sets

• Diptych above a sofa, two 50 x 70 cm side by side with 5 to 8 cm between frames.
• Triptych on a large wall, three A2 or three 60 x 90 cm pieces with even spacing.
• Grid wall, four squares at 50 x 50 cm makes a striking, balanced focal point.

For spacing, heights and advanced layouts, refer to our full guide on how to create the perfect gallery wall.

In short

• Use A‑series for consistent scaling, metric or inch sizes for a specific look, and match aspect ratios to avoid cropping.
• For big rooms, do not be shy, 60 x 90 cm, 24 x 36 in and A1 create confident focal points.
• Plan the final size including mounts and frames, not just the print size.
• When in doubt, template it on the wall, then pick one size up, rooms tend to favour slightly larger art.

Ready to choose? Explore sizes tailored to your space, from A3 prints and A2 prints to statement‑making 50 x 70 cm prints, elegant Square art prints and widescreen Panoramic prints.

Why dreamprint.art, curated works from top contemporary artists, ready to hang options, made on demand, multiple sizes and framing, international shipping and secure checkout. Pick your perfect size with confidence, then enjoy art that feels made for your room.

Size Inspiration: See These Prints in Action

Still wondering which size is right for you? Here are some beautiful prints from our collection that showcase how different sizes can work in your space:

1. Prisoner Frog Funny Poster by Dion Gem

This quirky and humorous illustration brings personality to any space. Perfect in A3 or 30×40 cm for offices, game rooms, or casual living areas where you want to add a touch of fun. The detailed artwork and playful concept make it a great conversation starter. Check out more in our Illustration collection.

2. Gourmet Cat by Isabelle Brent

Charming and whimsical, this cat-themed print works wonderfully in A2 or 50×70 cm sizes for kitchens, dining rooms, or cozy reading nooks. The delightful illustration style adds warmth and character to your walls. Discover more in our Cat collection.

3. Sailing Trip by Roswitha Schleicher Schwarz

This serene nautical scene is ideal for creating a calming atmosphere in bedrooms or bathrooms. Available in sizes from A3 to B1, it adapts beautifully to different spaces while maintaining its peaceful, coastal vibe. Perfect for bringing a sense of tranquility to your home. Browse more from our Bestsellers collection.

4. Poster Espresso Martini Up by Studio Dolci

Sophisticated and stylish, this cocktail-inspired design is perfect for home bars, kitchens, or dining areas in 30×40 cm or A2 sizes. The elegant composition and rich tones add a touch of refinement to your entertaining spaces. Explore more from Studio Dolci.

Each of these prints is available in multiple sizes, so you can choose the perfect dimensions for your space. Ready to find your ideal art print? Browse our full collection and use our size filters to discover artwork that fits perfectly.