Art print size guide

Most people buy art too small. They stand in front of a wall, get nervous, and pick the size that feels safe. Then it goes up and floats there, and the room still feels unfinished.

Size is the decision that makes a print work or not. Here is how I think about it, in plain numbers.

The sizes, and where each one belongs

8x10: shelves, desks, nightstands, and narrow strips of wall. Leans without nails.

18x24: a hallway, a loveseat, a full bed, or a wall about 3 to 4 feet wide.

20x30: above a standard couch or a queen bed. The size that finishes most walls.

24x36: the statement size. A big wall, a king bed, or a wall with nothing under it.

The two-thirds rule

Measure the furniture under the wall. Aim for art about two thirds of its width. A 60 inch couch wants something close to 40 inches wide across the art and its frame. If you're between two sizes, go bigger.

How high to hang it

Hang the center of the print about 57 inches from the floor. That is eye level for most people, and it is the height galleries use. Above a couch or bed, leave 8 to 10 inches between the furniture and the bottom of the frame instead.

Test it before you buy

Cut a sheet of paper or cardboard to the size you're considering and tape it to the wall. Live with it for a day. Or use See it on your wall to hang any print on your own wall at its real size through your phone's camera.

Shop by room

Calm bedroom · Entryway · Home office · Shelves and small spaces · Statement wall