How to Make and Use Art Posters to Grow Your Creative Business

Posters are a cheap, eye‑catching way to share your art with a wider audience. Whether you want to sell prints, promote a workshop, or just decorate a wall, a good poster can do the job. In this guide we’ll walk through the basics of designing, printing and hanging posters so you can start using them right away.

Design Basics That Work Every Time

Start with a clear focal point – a bold image or a striking title. Keep the color palette limited to three or four shades; too many colors make the poster look busy. Use a readable font for any text and make sure the size is big enough to be seen from a distance. If you’re promoting an event, add the date, time and location in a separate line so it stands out.

Printing Tips for a Professional Look

Choose a paper stock that matches your style. Heavy matte paper works well for fine‑art looks, while glossy paper makes colors pop for pop‑culture designs. Ask the printer about bleed – an extra 0.125 in around the edges that ensures no white borders appear after trimming. Print a small test batch first; it’s cheaper than re‑printing a whole run if something looks off.

When you order, compare prices between local print shops and online services. Online printers often give discounts for bulk orders, but local shops can help you check color accuracy before a big run. If you’re on a tight budget, print at home on good quality paper and cut the size down to standard poster dimensions (18 × 24 in works well for most walls).

Once you have the prints, think about how to display them. Framing adds a polished touch, but a simple poster tube with a hanging hook works for temporary shows. You can also use poster rails or clips that let you swap designs without taking the whole wall apart. If you’re selling online, photograph the poster with natural light and a clean background – that makes the listing look trustworthy.

Finally, promote your posters where people already look for art. Social media platforms let you share a digital version, and you can add a link to purchase the print. Local coffee shops, community centers and pop‑up markets are great places to hang a few samples. When someone asks where they can buy a piece, hand them a business card with a QR code that leads straight to the shop page.

Using posters isn’t just about selling prints; it’s a way to get your name out there. A well‑designed poster can become a mini‑advertisement that travels from wall to wall, spreading your style far beyond your studio. Start with a simple design, test a few prints, and watch how quickly you can reach new fans.

Are Art Prints Just Posters?
17 Mar, 2025

Are Art Prints Just Posters?

by Alaric Westcombe | Mar, 17 2025 | Art Prints | 0 Comments

Art prints and posters might seem similar at first glance, but they differ in significant ways such as quality, materials, and purpose. Art prints typically involve higher quality paper and inks, are often reproductions of artworks, and can include the artist's signature, adding value. Posters, on the other hand, are mass-produced and likely to use lower quality materials. This article explores the differences and significance of art prints in home décor.

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