How to Choose a Poster Size: Find the Right Fit for Your Wall

A poster may look exactly the way you want it to on the screen, but once it’s on the wall, it might appear smaller or larger than you expected. When choosing a poster size, you need to consider not only the image itself but also the space around it. You can start with these four steps to make the decision easier.

1. Measure the usable area, not the entire wall

Outlets, light switches, shelves, and doorways can reduce the usable portion of a wall that appears wide on paper. First, note the width and height of the area where the poster will be placed. Leave some space on the sides and at the top; the image doesn’t have to touch the edges of the wall.

2. Consider it along with the furniture

A poster above a console table or sofa is perceived as part of the same visual arrangement. A very small image can get lost on a large piece of furniture, while a very large image can overshadow a narrow console table. Instead of looking for a single ratio that applies to every room, focus on the balance of the space you leave on either side of the piece of furniture.

For a wide, low space, consider browsing horizontal posters. On a narrow wall, however, a vertical arrangement might be a better place to start. Choose the orientation not only based on which image you like, but also on the shape of the wall.

3. Compare the two measurements at actual size

Prepare paper mockups for the two dimensions you’re unsure about. First, test them on the floor, then at the spot you have in mind using a method that won’t damage the wall. Look at them from the entrance to the room and from where you usually sit. A design that looks good up close may lose its impact when viewed from across the room.

If you plan to use two posters together, be sure to include the space between them when calculating the total width. Just because they fit individually doesn’t mean they’ll fit comfortably side by side.

4. Check the interior dimensions of the existing frame

If you have a frame, measure the inner area where the print will be placed, not the outer edges. If you’re using a mat, note the size of the window opening and the size of the backing paper separately. Before placing your order, compare these measurements with the size options on the product page.

For a final check, write down these three pieces of information side by side: available wall space, the poster size you’ve chosen, and, if applicable, the frame’s interior dimensions. This short list provides a more solid starting point than making a decision based solely on the image.