Custom Print Sizes: When Standard Doesn't Fit
Custom print sizes make sense when your image’s aspect ratio doesn’t match standard sizes, when you need to fill a specific wall space, or when you’re printing panoramic or non-standard format images. Standard sizes cover most needs, but roughly 15-20% of print orders benefit from custom dimensions.
When Standard Sizes Don’t Work
Here are the most common scenarios where custom sizes are the right choice:
1. Aspect Ratio Mismatch
Standard print sizes have fixed aspect ratios (2:3, 4:5, 5:7, etc.). If your image has a different ratio, printing at a standard size requires either cropping part of the image or adding white borders. Custom sizes let you print the full image without compromise.
2. Panoramic Images
Panoramic photos (16:9, 2:1, or wider) don’t fit any standard print size. Common custom panoramic sizes:
| Aspect Ratio | Suggested Custom Sizes |
|---|---|
| 16:9 | 12×6.75”, 24×13.5”, 36×20.25” |
| 2:1 | 10×20”, 12×24”, 16×32”, 20×40” |
| 3:1 | 10×30”, 12×36”, 20×60” |
| 4:1 | 8×32”, 12×48” |
3. Specific Wall Space
You have a wall space that measures 15×22 inches, and no standard size fits. A custom print eliminates the guesswork.
4. Multi-Panel or Diptych/Triptych Layouts
When splitting one image across multiple panels, each panel size is often non-standard. For example, a 36-inch-wide image split into three panels might use three 12×24 panels or three 12×18 panels.
5. Square Formats
While some standard square sizes exist (12×12, 16×16, 20×20), other square sizes like 10×10, 14×14, or 30×30 are considered custom.
How to Calculate Custom Dimensions
From Your Image’s Aspect Ratio
- Find your image dimensions in pixels (e.g., 5184×3456).
- Divide width by height: 5184 ÷ 3456 = 1.5 (this is a 3:2 ratio).
- Choose one dimension based on your needs (e.g., 18 inches wide).
- Calculate the other: 18 ÷ 1.5 = 12 inches tall.
- Your custom size: 18×12 inches.
From Your Wall Space
- Measure the available wall space.
- Subtract 2-4 inches on each side for visual breathing room (a 24×36 space works best with a 20×30 print).
- Calculate the aspect ratio of your target area.
- Check if your image can be cropped to this ratio without losing important content.
Ensuring Sufficient Resolution
For custom sizes, calculate the minimum pixels needed:
- Pixels needed = print dimension (inches) × DPI
- For a custom 15×22” print at 300 DPI: 4500×6600 pixels = 29.7 megapixels
- For the same print at 200 DPI: 3000×4400 pixels = 13.2 megapixels
Use our DPI Calculator to verify your image has sufficient resolution.
Cost Comparison: Standard vs Custom
| Size | Standard Price (Paper) | Custom Price (Paper) | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8×10 | $2-$5 | — (standard) | — |
| 8×12 | $3-$7 | — (standard) | — |
| 9×12 (custom) | — | $5-$10 | ~40% over 8×12 |
| 10×20 (custom) | — | $12-$22 | ~30% over 12×18 |
| 15×22 (custom) | — | $15-$28 | ~35% over 16×20 |
| 12×36 (panoramic) | — | $18-$35 | — (no standard equivalent) |
| 20×60 (panoramic) | — | $40-$80 | — (no standard equivalent) |
For canvas and metal prints, the premium for custom sizes is lower (10-30%) because these are already cut-to-order.
Custom Framing Options
Non-standard prints require custom frames. Options include:
Online Custom Framing Services
Online services typically offer:
- Frame selection from hundreds of styles
- Custom mat cutting with precise opening sizes
- Glass options (regular, non-glare, UV-protective)
- Professional assembly and shipping
- Prices: $50-$200 for most sizes
Local Frame Shops
- More expensive but offer hands-on consultation
- Can handle unusual materials and mounting
- Typical turnaround: 1-3 weeks
- Prices: $80-$400+ depending on materials
DIY Framing
- Buy custom-cut frames and mats separately
- Most economical option
- Requires some skill for professional-looking results
File Preparation for Custom Prints
When ordering custom sizes:
- Resize in your image editor to the exact print dimensions at your target DPI before uploading.
- Add bleed if the print service requests it (typically 0.125” or 0.25” per side).
- Convert to the correct color space — sRGB for most consumer services, Adobe RGB or CMYK for professional labs.
- Save as high-quality JPEG (quality 10-12 in Photoshop) or TIFF for lossless quality.
- Review the proof if your service provides one. Custom sizes are more likely to have positioning issues.
Standard vs Custom: Decision Guide
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Image matches a standard ratio (2:3, 4:5) | Use standard size |
| Small crop needed to fit standard size | Use standard size and crop |
| Panoramic image (wider than 2:3) | Go custom |
| Specific wall space to fill | Go custom |
| Budget-conscious | Use standard size |
| Gallery or exhibition display | Go custom for best fit |
| Multi-panel display | Go custom |
Alternatives to Custom Sizing
Before ordering custom, consider these options:
- Standard size with mat/border — Print smaller on a standard-size paper with white borders. A 7×12” image can print with borders on 8×14” paper.
- Standard size with crop — If only a small amount of the image would be cropped, the standard size might work fine.
- Gallery wrap canvas — The wrapped edges hide 1-1.5” per side, effectively changing the visible dimensions.
Related Resources
- Standard Photo Print Sizes — Check if a standard size works first
- Canvas Print Sizes — Standard canvas dimensions
- Aspect Ratios for Print — Match your image ratio to print sizes
- DPI Calculator — Verify resolution for your custom size
- Picture Frame Sizes — Standard frame dimensions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much more do custom print sizes cost?
Custom print sizes typically cost 20-50% more than standard sizes. The premium comes from manual handling, non-standard material cutting, and the inability to batch with other orders. Some services charge per square inch for custom sizes.
Can I order a custom size canvas print?
Yes, most online canvas printing services offer custom sizes. You can typically specify exact dimensions in 1-inch increments. Some services allow custom sizes down to 0.5-inch increments. Common custom canvas sizes include panoramic formats like 12×36 or 20×60.
How do I calculate custom print dimensions from my photo?
Divide your image's pixel width by its pixel height to get the aspect ratio. Then multiply one desired dimension by this ratio to find the other. For example, a 5000×3000 pixel image has a 5:3 ratio. If you want it 20 inches wide: 20 ÷ (5/3) = 12 inches tall. So your custom size is 20×12 inches.
Can I get a custom frame for a non-standard print?
Yes. Custom framing is available at frame shops, online framing services, and some big-box stores. Costs typically range from $50-$300+ depending on size, frame material, and glass type. Online custom framing services are usually 30-50% cheaper than local shops.
What are the most common non-standard print sizes people order?
Popular custom sizes include panoramic formats (10×30, 12×36, 20×60), square formats (10×10, 20×20, 30×30), and odd sizes to fit specific wall spaces or frame openings.