You’ve Downloaded Your Digital Prints: Now What? A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Them Shine

Congratulations on acquiring your new digital prints! Whether they’re destined for your home office, recording studio, or a cozy corner of your living room, these prints are about to add some serious style to your space. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure they look as spectacular on your walls as they do on your screen.

Choosing Your Printing Material

First things first: the material you print on will greatly impact the overall aesthetic of your artwork. For a sleek, vibrant look, glossy paper will make the colors pop, though it’s best for spots without much direct sunlight to avoid glare. If your art features a lot of detail or you prefer a more understated style, matte paper is wonderfully effective at eliminating reflections.

Canvas is another excellent choice, particularly for larger pieces. It gives prints a textured, durable finish that mimics the look of original paintings and adds a touch of luxury. For something a bit different, why not explore specialty papers like metallic or linen? These can add unique effects and enhance the character of your prints.

Getting the Perfect Print

Once you’ve chosen your material, it’s time to think about printing. If your home printer is up to the task, make sure it can handle high-resolution files to avoid any loss of detail. However, for the best color accuracy and quality, professional print services are the way to go. They can provide samples and advice on getting the best from your chosen material.

Before you print, consider the size of the space where you’ll display your art. Measure your wall space to decide how large your print should be. It’s important to ensure your digital file has a minimum of 300 DPI at the intended print size for crystal clear images. And if you’re fitting your print into a pre-purchased frame, check the ratios available before you buy your files. At RetroDraft, all our digital files come in five of the most common ratios to help you find the perfect fit, but it’s worth noting that different shops might offer different options.

From Print to Frame

Framing is more than just a protective measure; it’s a way to enhance and complement your art. Choose a frame that matches both the style of the artwork and the room’s decor. Adding a mat can also elevate your print, creating a border that highlights the art and gives it a professional gallery look.

Hanging and Maintaining Your Artwork

Now, where to hang your newly framed art? The general rule is to place the center of the print at eye level, which usually means about 57 inches from the floor. If you’re creating a gallery wall, lay out your frames on the floor first to plan the spacing and arrangement before you start hanging them.

To keep your prints looking pristine, place them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and dust them regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using cleaning products or water which can damage the surface.

By following these steps, your digital prints will not only be displayed beautifully but will also enhance the ambiance of your environment for years to come. Whether it’s the vibrant hues of a glossy finish or the refined elegance of matte paper, your digital art is ready to tell its own unique story on your walls. Enjoy the process of bringing your digital creations to life—it’s a simple way to personalize and elevate your space!