Hand-drawn calligraphy & portraits - Submit your text or photo

Printing Guide

How to Choose the Right Printer for Your Artwork

To get the best results, choose the printing option that matches the type of artwork you ordered.

CALLIGRAPHY PRINTS

Your calligraphy files are designed to print beautifully at 8×10, 11×14, and 16×20 depending on your order. Calligraphy looks its best on matte cardstock — not glossy or semi‑gloss photo paper. Cardstock keeps the lettering crisp, elegant, and easy to read.

Best Places for Calligraphy (Cardstock Printing)

1. Zazzle Cardstock Prints

  • Offers cardstock for 8×10, 11×14, and 16×20

  • Smooth matte finish ideal for lettering

  • Easy upload and consistent quality

2. Shutterfly Cardstock Prints

  • Cardstock available for all three sizes

  • Good for customers who want a familiar, simple ordering process

3. Local Print Shops

  • Often the best quality

  • Ask for:

    • Matte cardstock

    • Smooth cover stock

    • 80–110 lb weight

  • Staff can ensure the file prints at Actual Size with correct margins

PORTRAIT PRINTS

Portraits look best on matte photo paper as an 8x10, which keeps skin tones soft and avoids glare.

Best Places for Portraits (Matte Photo Printing)

1. Walgreens Photo

  • Fast turnaround

  • Matte photo option

  • Good color accuracy

2. Shutterfly Photo Prints

  • Matte photo finish

  • Easy ordering

3. Mpix

  • Deep matte and fine‑art options

  • Excellent for premium portrait prints

4. Printique

  • Beautiful matte and deep matte papers

  • High‑end, gallery‑quality results

Quick Tips

  • Choose Matte Cardstock for calligraphy

  • Choose Matte Photo Paper for portraits

  • Select Actual Size (not “Fit to Page”)

  • Borderless printing is recommended unless your artwork includes margins