How to Print Digital Artworks at Home or Online (Beginner’s Guide)
Learn how to turn your digital artwork into a beautiful physical print. This beginner-friendly guide covers everything from home printing tips to using trusted online services like FinerWorks and Printful. Discover the best paper types, file sizes, and where to print for stunning, gallery-worthy results.
There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a digital artwork step off the screen and become real. Whether it’s a calming forest landscape or a vibrant burst of abstract color, turning your downloaded art into something tangible—something you can touch, frame, and live with—adds a whole new layer of meaning.
You could print a piece for your bedroom wall, a gallery display in your hallway, or a heartfelt gift for someone special. Whatever your purpose, knowing how to print your digital art properly makes all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step—whether you’re using a home printer or sending it off to a professional service.
Option 1: Print It at Home (If You Have the Right Tools)
If you have a good printer and some quality paper, you can print your artwork at home. Here's what I recommend:
- Use a high-resolution file (300 dpi or higher): this ensures clarity and detail.
- Choose the right paper – try matte photo paper for a soft painterly effect, or premium heavyweight cardstock for a more solid, professional feel.
- Set your printer settings to "Best Quality" and match the paper type in the settings.
This option is BEST for smaller sizes like 5x7", 8x10", or even 11x14". Anything larger starts to test the limits of most home printers.
Option 2: Use a Local Print Shop
You can also take your digital file to a nearby print shop or office supply store like:
- FedEx Office
- Staples
- Office Depot
Just bring the JPG file on a USB drive or email it to them. Ask them to print it on heavyweight matte or satin paper, and double-check that they’re using the right size and resolution.
Bonus: You can get it printed and picked up the same day.
Option 3: Order Online & Have It Delivered (Easy, Reliable & High-Quality)
If you want gallery-level quality and don’t want to leave the house, these online services are a dream. Just upload the file, choose your paper and size, and they’ll print and ship it to you — even internationally.
| Service | Ships Internationally | Typical Time | Notes | Drop-Ship Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FinerWorks | Yes | 2–4 weeks | Fine art papers, giclée prints, great detail | ✔️ Yes |
| Giclée Today | Yes | Few days to weeks | High-quality, artist-trusted | ✔️ Yes |
| Printful | Yes | 2–5 days + shipping | Offers framed and canvas options | ✔️ Yes |
| Shutterfly | Yes (100+ countries) | Fast for photo prints | Great for everyday decor | ❌ No |
| Snapfish | Yes | Similar to above | Affordable & accessible | ❌ No |
A Note About International Orders
All the services above ship internationally, though shipping times and customs fees can vary:
- FinerWorks adds a $14.95 base + 30% of the subtotal for international shipping.
- Giclée Today and Printful both ship globally and support drop-shipping, ideal for artists selling worldwide.
- Shutterfly and Snapfish ship to 100+ countries, great for personal photo-style prints.
- Be prepared for customs fees or VAT, depending on your country — these are typically paid upon delivery.
File Sizes: A Quick Reminder
Every artwork from Art Academi includes high-resolution JPG files in multiple sizes, so whether you're printing a 5x7” for your desk or a 24x36” centerpiece for your wall, you’re ready. Just match the file size to the print size to preserve clarity and detail.
Final Thought
Whichever way you choose to print, take a moment with it. Choose a frame that matches your space, find the right spot for it to breathe, and let it live with you. Art isn’t just decoration — it’s emotion, captured.
And if you’re ever unsure what size to print, or need a recommendation for paper type or printing method, just reach out. I’d love to help.