How to Choose Between Canvas Prints and Framed Prints

When it comes to showcasing your favorite memories, few things make a bigger impact than professionally printed wall art. At Shutterfly, we offer a variety of ways to bring your photos to life, including canvas prints and framed prints. Both options let you customize your images, from single photos to collage-style designs, and add text or backgrounds for a personal touch. But which is right for you? This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make the perfect choice for your space and style.

What Are Canvas Prints?

Canvas prints transform your favorite photos into gallery-quality wall art. Using premium poly-cotton canvas, Shutterfly ensures your image will last for years without fading or warping. Each print is professionally stretched over a solid wood frame and can be finished with gallery-wrapped edges for a polished look that looks great from every angle.

Key Features of Canvas Prints:

Vivid, Long-Lasting Color: Giclee printing technology keeps colors vibrant, scratch-resistant, and humidity-proof.
Durable Construction: No sagging or warping thanks to solid wood backing.
Matte Finish: Most sizes come with a matte finish, with larger prints (30×40 & 36×36) in satin for subtle shine.
Optional Frames: Choose from black, white, rustic, walnut, natural, metallic, or matte gold frames to complement any décor.
Sizes for Every Space: From 8×10 to 36×36, small prints for cozy corners or large prints for statement walls.
Easy Hanging: Comes with a metal sawtooth hanger for quick installation.

Canvas prints are ideal for anyone looking to create a modern, artistic feel in their home. Their textured finish gives photos a painterly quality, while the gallery-wrapped edges provide a sleek, frameless look—or you can choose to add a frame for extra sophistication.

What Are Framed Prints?

Framed prints are a classic way to display your photos, offering a polished, ready-to-hang presentation. Shutterfly prints your image on high-quality archival paper and pairs it with framing-grade acrylic, which is shatter-resistant and protects your photo from dust, UV light, and scratches.

Key Features of Framed Prints:

Vibrant, Accurate Colors: Archival-quality printing ensures your photo looks its best.
Custom Framing Options: Choose from black, white, natural, walnut, or matte gold frames, with three different styles to match any room.
Optional Acid-Free Mats: Add one or two mats in black or white to enhance your photo and create a layered look.
Sizes for Every Need: From small 8×10 prints to large statement pieces like 24×36.
Ready to Hang: Backed with kraft paper and wire for easy installation.

Framed prints are perfect for anyone who prefers a refined, traditional look. They’re ideal for highlighting formal portraits, family photos, or any image where sharp detail and classic style are a priority.

Comparing Canvas Prints and Framed Prints

While both canvas and framed prints offer high-quality, customizable ways to display your photos, there are some differences to consider:

Feature	Canvas Prints	Framed Prints
Finish	Matte (most) or Satin (large sizes)	Glossy/Matte acrylic protection
Texture	Slightly textured, painterly	Smooth, flat photo surface
Depth	1.25″–1.5″ (without frame)	1.75″–2.5″ including frame
Framing Options	Optional, multiple colors	Always framed, multiple styles and colors
Durability	Scratch & humidity-resistant, no sagging	Shatter-resistant acrylic, archival quality
Style Vibe	Modern, artistic, gallery	Classic, refined, traditional
Customization	Text, backgrounds, single or multiple photos	Text, backgrounds, single or multiple photos, optional mats
Hanging	Metal sawtooth hanger	Wire ready to hang
Available Sizes	8×10, 10×14, 10×20, 10×24, 12×12, 16×16, 16×20, 20×24, 20×30, 24×36, 30×30, 36×36	8×10, 10×24, 11×14, 12×12, 14×28, 16×16, 16×20, 20×30, 24×36

How to Choose Between Canvas and Framed Prints

Choosing the right wall art depends on your style, space, and photo type. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Consider Your Home Décor

Modern/Minimalist: Canvas prints provide a clean, contemporary look, especially without a frame.
Traditional/Classic: Framed prints complement classic furniture and formal spaces with elegance.

2. Think About Photo Type

Portraits: Framed prints shine with professional or formal portraits. Mats can enhance the photo.
Artistic Photos: Canvas prints are perfect for artistic shots, landscapes, or travel photography, emphasizing color and texture.

3. Evaluate the Room and Placement

High-Traffic Areas: Framed prints with acrylic offer extra protection.
Statement Walls: Large canvas prints create a bold visual impact without overwhelming the room.

4. Personalization Preferences

Both options allow full customization:

Add text, backgrounds, or collages.
Canvas prints can be ordered with or without a frame, giving you the flexibility to choose the style that best fits your space.
Framed prints can include mats to create layered, gallery-style designs.

5. Size Matters

Canvas prints: up to 36×36 for square walls or 30×40 for rectangular spaces.
Framed prints: slightly smaller max dimensions, but perfect for fitting into existing frames or wall layouts.

Related Resources on Custom Wall Art

Whether you choose the textured elegance of a canvas print or the polished refinement of a framed print, your photos have the power to transform any space. Wall art is more than decoration—it’s a way to celebrate moments, showcase creativity, and make your home truly yours.

At Shutterfly, every print is crafted with care, letting your favorite memories shine with vibrant color and lasting quality. Whatever style you pick, your photos are ready to become the centerpiece of your home and the conversation starter of any room.

Additional Resources: