You might have seen a range of online stores offering downloadable, printable wall art, or free printable wall art, but how does it work? How do you get your art? In this article, we go over how to print your printable wall art at home or at a copyshop, as well as giving a few handy tips for a good finish.
So, how do I print free printables? To print free printables and other printable wall art, select the correct file size, then click the print button on the program you’re using. Check the settings are correct, then print (we recommend a test before using your final paper). For larger sizes, or if you don’t have a printer, you can use a copyshop.
Read on to learn more about how to print printable wall art.
Jump To:
- Can You Print Digital Art?
- How Do I Print Digital Printables?
- What DPI Should I Use for Printing Art?
- What is the Best Paper to Print Digital Art On?
Can You Print Digital Art?
Digital art is easily printed, as long as you have permission from the seller. To make it easier, there are a wealth of websites, like Printable Wall Art, that sell downloadable printable wall art that is ready for you to print in a size of your choosing either at home or at a copy shop.
Most of our printable wall prints are instant downloads and are formatted in such a way that it’s easy for you to print at home, on a regular printer. We also provide a number of sizes for you to choose from, although, we recommend getting anything larger than A4 printed professionally.
How Do I Print Digital Printables?
When you purchase printable wall art that is an instant download, you’ll have access to a range of files; some of these will be hosted on Dropbox, whilst others will be Zip Files.
Select the file you wish to print, ensuring that you choose the correct size. For reference, you’ll find some common size conversions below:
| A-Size | CM | MM | In |
| A0 | 84.1 x 118.8 | 841 x 1188 | 33 1/8 x 46 13/16 |
| A1 | 59.4 x 84.1 | 594 x 841 | 23 3/8 x 33 1/8 |
| A2 | 42.0 x 59.4 | 420 x 594 | 16 1/2 x 23 3/8 |
| A3 | 29.7 x 42.0 | 297 x 420 | 11 3/4 x 16 1/2 |
| A4 | 21.0 x 29.7 | 210 x 297 | 8 1/4 x 11 3/4 |
| A5 | 14.8 x 21.0 | 148 x 210 | 5 7/8 x 8 1/4 |
| A6 | 10.5 x 14.8 | 105 x 148 | 4 1/8 x 5 7/8 |
Open your file (it should be either a JPG, PNG, or PDF) and go to the print settings on the program. Where appropriate, check that your printer is set to print in colour, and that the landscape/portrait settings are correct for the design. It might be worth printing a test on regular paper first to check that the settings are correct. Also, ensure to check that the paper size matches that of the size you’re printing.
If you choose to print your printable wall prints at a copy shop, make sure that you send the correct file, and that the operator knows what size you wish to print the document at, as well as instructing them on which type of paper you wish to use – they may just use standard paper and standard printer settings otherwise.
What DPI Should I Use for Printing Art?
With downloadable prints, you’re unlikely to need to change the DPI of an image (and may not be able to without suitable software), however, if you are presented with this, we recommend a DPI of at least 300. Any less than this may result in a grainy image.
But, you don’t need to worry about technical things like DPI with Printable Wall Art. All of our designs are ready to print at home, without the need for expensive graphics software.
What is the Best Paper to Print Digital Art On?
We always recommend printing on good quality coated paper after you’ve tested your printer settings. It is your choice whether to use a matte, semi-matte or glossy finish. The coating prevents the ink from soaking into the paper too much, which can dull the colours.
Depending on how you intend to hand your prints, we recommend using at least 130gsm paper, or card or quote prints. Anything thinner than this runs the risk of being semi-transparent and may ruin the finished look of your printable wall art.
Should Art Prints be Glossy or Matte?
It’s completely up to you whether you choose matte, semi-matte, or glossy paper to print your printable wall art. However, bear in mind that a glossy finish may make text difficult to read, especially if you get a lot of light in the room in which you intend to hang your printable wall art.
Discover Printable Wall Art
Discover a wide range of choices at Printable Wall Art for every room of the house; whether you’re looking to spruce up the living room, or add a calming touch to the bedroom. We also have a range of free printable wall prints so you can try before you buy.