Download to Decor: Your Guide to Printing Artwork Like a Pro! 

You just scored the perfect downloadable artwork – a stunning floral piece for your living room, a quirky illustration for your kid's bedroom, the possibilities are endless! But how do you get that digital file onto your wall? Fear not, creative friend, because this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about printing downloadable artwork.

Finding Your Downloadable Treasure 

First things first, locate your downloaded artwork on your computer. It's usually a JPG or PDF file nestled snugly in your downloads folder. 

Making Sure it's Print-tastic! 

Before hitting print, let's do a quick check to ensure your artwork translates beautifully to paper. Here's what to look for:

• File Size: This (measured in MB) determines how large you can print without sacrificing quality. Bigger is generally better for bigger prints.

• Resolution: Measured in DPI (dots per inch), resolution refers to the level of detail. Aim for at least 300 DPI for crisp, clear prints.

Pro Tip: Many downloadable artworks come in multiple file sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits your desired print size. If you're unsure about the resolution, don't hesitate to reach out to the artist or seller for clarification.

Choosing the Perfect Canvas 

Now comes the fun part – envisioning your artwork in its final form! Consider the size of the artwork, the space you want to display it in, and what kind of vibe you're going for.

• Standard Frame Sizes: Many downloadable artworks come in standard sizes like 8x10", 11x14", or 16x20". This makes framing a breeze!

• Cropping for a Perfect Fit: If you have a specific frame in mind, you can usually crop the artwork slightly during printing to ensure a perfect fit.

Printing Powerhouses: Picking Your Method

There are three main ways to get your downloadable artwork into print form:

• Your home printer is ideal for smaller artworks (think 8x10" and below). Invest in high-quality photo paper for the best results, and make sure your ink cartridge is feeling generous.

Printing Pointers for Picture-Perfect Results 

High Quality Mode is Your Friend: Set your printer to the highest quality or "best" mode for optimal results.

Paper Size Matters: Double-check that your printer settings match the paper size you're using.

Fit to Page for Easy Cropping: If you need to crop slightly to fit the paper, select the "fit to page" option in your printer settings.

Test Print it Out: Before committing to a full print on fancy paper, do a test print on regular paper to ensure everything looks as intended.

From Print to Perfection: The Finishing Touches

Bonus Tips for the Discerning Downloader

License to Print: If you plan to display your downloadable artwork in a public space or sell prints made from it, ensure it has a "commercial use" license.

A helpful guide on finding downloadable artwork with commercial use licenses: [What is a commercial use license?]  Legalzoom 

Bundle Up and Save: Many artists offer bundles of downloadable artwork at discounted prices. Take advantage of these deals to create a cohesive art collection for your space.

Support Indie Artists: Consider purchasing downloadable artwork directly from independent artists' websites or online stores, such as ours at Urban Artistry Co Shop. You'll be getting a unique piece while supporting their creative endeavors.

Explore a curated selection of downloadable artwork from independent artists, including works from Society6.