How to print a family tree poster

6-minute guide · Updated September 2026

A family chart is only as good as its print. Here's how to choose a size, what to ask the print shop for, and how to get a sharp result the first time.

1. Choose the size from the number of generations

Each generation doubles the number of people, so bigger trees need bigger paper for the names to stay readable across the room.

These sizes keep the smallest names at about 6–8 pt or larger, readable when you stand in front of the chart, even when every ancestor is filled in. Most real trees have gaps further back, and Fan Chart Studio's smart spacing gives that room to the ancestors you have found, so a size smaller often works. The studio shows the size of the smallest names live and suggests a bigger paper when needed. On the same paper, a full circle usually prints names 20–40% larger than a half fan.

Standard sizes like 11 × 17, 16 × 20, 18 × 24 and 24 × 36 inches fit ready-made frames, which saves a lot compared with custom framing.

2. Pick a paper

• Matte or “satin” poster paper is the safe choice. No glare behind glass, and colors stay soft.
• Archival / fine-art paper costs more but lasts for generations. Worth it for a gift.
• Glossy photo paper makes colors pop but reflects light. Better without glass.
• Plain bond (engineering prints) is the cheapest way to print very large sizes, usually black and white. Use the Ink Saver theme and it looks great.

3. Where to print

• Local print or copy shops can print your PDF while you wait and help with paper choice.
• Office-supply stores usually offer both color posters and inexpensive black-and-white engineering prints.
• Online poster printers ship rolled or framed prints. Upload the PDF exactly as downloaded.
• Libraries and genealogy societies sometimes have large-format printers for members.

4. Avoid the classic mistakes

1. Download the PDF at the size you'll print. Set the paper size in Fan Chart Studio first. The PDF is vector, so it can be enlarged, but matching the size keeps margins and proportions right.
2. Ask for “actual size / 100%”, not “fit to page”, when the paper matches the PDF size.
3. Print a small proof first. Print the same chart on letter paper at home and read every name before paying for a poster.
4. Check living relatives. Tick Hide dates of living people if the chart will hang in a shared space or be photographed for social media.
5. Leave the margin alone. The chart already includes a safe border for framing and trimming.