Wall Art & Prints for Beginners

In depth

Let's talk about choosing your first wall art print – it can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re hearing terms like ‘giclee’ and ‘canvas wrap’ thrown around. Don’t worry, most of that is just industry-specific language and doesn't directly impact how a print looks or feels in your home. The key things to focus on as a beginner are the image itself, the material it’s printed on, and how it's framed (or not framed).

The first thing you’ll notice is the image itself, of course. Consider what kind of artwork genuinely appeals to you – landscapes, abstracts, portraits, botanical illustrations? Don’t just go for something that looks good online; look at high-resolution images on different screens as they can appear quite different in reality. Pay attention to the colour palette too; a vibrant, saturated print might be amazing in a bright room but feel overpowering in a darker space. Think about the overall mood you want to create – calming blues and greens are generally good for bedrooms, while bolder colours can work well in living rooms or studies. You’ll also find prints come in different sizes – small artwork is great for above a desk or bedside table, whereas larger pieces make a statement on an empty wall. Don't worry about getting it perfect first time; you can always swap things around as you get more confident with your decorating style.

Next up: the print material. You’ll typically see prints available in paper, canvas, and sometimes metal. Paper prints are generally the most affordable option. They come in a range of weights – heavier papers tend to look more premium but can be trickier to hang. Canvas prints offer a more textured, gallery-like appearance and often feel more substantial. Canvas is usually stretched over a wooden frame, creating a ready-to-hang piece. Canvas wraps are similar, but the canvas extends beyond the edges of the printed area, giving the impression that the image is wrapping around the wall – they look particularly good with photographic images. Metal prints, such as aluminium composite, provide vivid colours and durability and have a sleek, modern appearance. The thickness of the material will affect how it looks; thicker materials tend to appear more substantial.

Framing (or not framing) is another crucial decision. Many prints are sold without a frame – this is often the most cost-effective route initially. You can then buy a frame separately that suits your style and the size of the print. Frame sizes aren't standardised, so take accurate measurements of your artwork before purchasing a frame. Consider the colour and style of the frame; it should complement the print and the overall décor of the room. If you opt for a framed print, pay attention to the glazing – this is the clear plastic covering that protects the image. A good quality glazing will allow plenty of light through without distorting the colours.

Now, let's address some terms you might encounter. 'Giclée’ refers to an inkjet printing process known for its colour accuracy and archival quality – essentially, it means the print is made with high-quality inks on a premium paper or canvas. While this *should* ensure longevity, all prints will fade over time to some degree depending on lighting conditions and the materials used. ‘Limited edition’ doesn't necessarily mean there are only a few copies; it often refers to a specific numbering system for a particular run of prints. Don't get hung up on these terms – they mainly relate to production methods and don’t fundamentally change how the artwork looks.

Finally, certain details are less critical when you’re starting out. The ‘dot pitch’ or ‘colour gamut’ of an inkjet printer, which refers to the range of colours it can produce, is usually irrelevant for most consumers. Similarly, things like ‘archival quality’ – meaning a print will last a very long time without fading – are more important in professional art contexts than with everyday wall prints. Focus instead on the overall aesthetic and ensuring you're happy with the image itself before committing to a purchase. You can always adjust your décor later as your tastes evolve, but getting the right artwork for your space is a fundamental step.