Postcard Print vs Art Print: Which One Fits Your Frame?
By Dripface Stour | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare the size, paper, and display options of Dripface Stour's postcard prints and art prints to decide which fits your frame and purpose.
Quick answer
Choose a postcard print for a compact, ready-to-mail display or small frame, and an art print for a larger, wall-ready framed piece with a finer paper stock.
Size and scale: small frame vs wall-ready
The biggest difference between a postcard print and an art print is their physical dimensions. A postcard print, like the MOUTH or PROMISE postcard prints, measures 4.72 x 4.72 inches — a perfect square that fits standard mini frames, gallery walls with multiple small pieces, or a desk easel. An art print, such as the HEY art print, comes at 8.5 x 11 inches, a common letter-size frame dimension that gives you more presence on a wall.
If you want to fill a standard 8x10 or 11x14 frame with a mat, an art print is the straightforward choice. Postcard prints require a smaller frame or custom matting to center them in a larger frame, which adds effort and cost.
Paper and finish: 17pt matte vs 80lb matte
Postcard prints use 17pt matte paper, which is thick and sturdy — similar to a standard greeting card. This weight makes them durable for mailing and handling without a frame. Art prints like the HEY art print use 80lb matte paper, a lighter weight that is still substantial but not as rigid. The 80lb stock is more typical for wall art and lies flatter in a frame.
For a frame, either works, but the 17pt postcard is noticeably thicker and may not sit as flush against the glass if the frame is very shallow. The 80lb art print is easier to mount flush and less prone to bending during framing.
Signature and authenticity
Both the HEY art print and the PICK A DOOR small print are hand-signed on the back, giving them a collectible touch. The MOUTH and PROMISE postcard prints do not mention a signature, so if a signed piece matters to you, an art print is the better bet. Note that the HEY art print listing notes some corners may be slightly bent — this is a known trade-off for that specific print, not a general rule for art prints.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Postcard print (4.72 x 4.72 in): Compact square that fits mini frames and desk displays. Thick 17pt paper is durable for mailing but may not lie perfectly flat in a shallow frame. Back has address lines, so it is not reversible. Best for small frames, gallery walls, or sending through the mail.
- Art print (8.5 x 11 in): Standard letter size that fits common frames and mats. Lighter 80lb paper lies flatter in a frame. Hand-signed on back adds collectible value. Some prints may have slightly bent corners. Best for a wall frame with a mat, or if you want a signature.
- Mid-size print (6 x 9 in): Larger than a postcard but smaller than letter-size. Thick 17pt paper with signature on back. Requires a custom frame or mat to fit standard frames. A middle ground if you want a signature and a slightly larger display without going full letter size.
Product facts
- MOUTH postcard print: 17pt matte paper, 4.72 x 4.72 inches, back with address lines and stamp box The thick cardstock and small square size make it ideal for mailing or display in a mini frame, but the address lines on the back limit double-sided framing.
MOUTH postcard print - HEY art print: 80lb matte paper, 8.5 x 11 inches, hand signed on back, some corners may be slightly bent The larger letter-size format fits standard frames easily, and the signature adds collectible value, but the potential corner bends require careful handling.
HEY art print - PICK A DOOR small print: 17pt matte paper, 6 x 9 inches, signed on back This size splits the difference between postcard and art print — larger than a postcard but smaller than letter-size, with a signature for authenticity.
Which one fits your frame?
Choose a postcard print if
- you want a compact display in a mini frame or on a desk easel
- you plan to mail the print as a postcard
- you are creating a small gallery wall with multiple square pieces
Choose an art print if
- you want a larger wall presence in a standard 8x10 or 11x14 frame
- you prefer a lighter paper that lies flat against glass
- a hand-signed piece is important to you
