Old Map of Dublin, Ireland, 1836 by WB Clark for SDUK - River Liffey, Leinster, Co. Dublin (2024)

What size should I buy?

If you have the space and the budget,I recommend buying a map that is 16x20 inches (40x50cm) or larger. Most maps look better at larger sizes because of the huge amount of detail on them.

When you buy the smallest size (usually 12in or 30cm), the text can be quite small. I recommend contacting me if you want to make sure that a map looks good at a specific size. I will usually respond within a few minutes.

Some maps mention a 'best size'. In this case, the map usually contains labels that are very hard to read at smaller sizes.

To help you pick the right size, here are some of my 'standard' map sizes next to each other, in portrait and landscape orientation.

Buying unframed maps

If you buy an unframed old map from me, and plan to frame it yourself, please read this page for important information about framing your map.

General size guidelines

Generally, the size you see on the shop is exactly accurate.

So, for example, if you buy an 18x24 inch map, you should buy a frame that 'fits artwork' that is 18x24 inches. If you order a 60x90cm map, you should buy a frame that 'fits artwork' that is 60x90cm.

If you see a map that is an unusual size, such as 24x11 inches (or 61x29cm), I strongly recommend you wait for the map to arrive before making or ordering a frame online. These maps can vary in size by a few millimetres, and it's very frustrating if they don't fit into your frame!

If you need a map that is an exact size in centimetres or inches, please contact me.

Large maps

Please contact me if you are planning to frame a large map (over 40 inches or 100cm) yourself.

If you are buying your own frame, I recommend you wait for the frame to arrive, confirm the internal size of the frame, and then tell me the exact size that you need. Measure the width and height of the board on the back of the frame to get an accurate measurement.

Alternatively, buy the map from me, measure it when it arrives, and then order a frame to fit.

For large maps I can customise the size of your map for free.

If you are taking your map to a local framer, they will measure the map for you and then make the frame to fit.

Maps in "A" paper sizes

If you are looking for an A size that is not available on my shop, such as 2A0 or A4, please contact mefor pricing.

Maps, Framed maps & Framed canvas maps

When you buy a map from my shop, there are usually 3 options.

• Map. This is a map, printed on thick, acid-free archival fully matte (no shine) paper. It will be carefully rolled up and delivered in a cardboard tube.
• Framed map. This map will be printed on the same fully matte paper, and then I will frame it as well.My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame, but you can change it by selecting 'pick frame colour'. For an additional fee, custom framing and mountingis also available.
• Framed canvas map or Canvas (stretched over frame). This map will be printed on canvas, and then "float framed" with a black wood frame. This is a wonderful way of presenting an old map.

See some examples of framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Learn more aboutmy exotic map finishes, such ascotton rag, aluminium board, wallpaper and textile.

Contact me if you need more info, or you're looking for something particularly unique.