How to print a family tree
Short answerTo print a family tree, pick a size that fits the number of generations, export it as a PDF so text stays sharp at any size, and print at home for letter or A3, or at a print shop for poster sizes such as 24 × 18 or 36 × 24 inches. Check names and dates first, and ask for a proof before a large print.
Steps
Check the tree first
Proofread names and dates, and add photos where you have them. Corrections are free on screen and costly on paper.
Choose a view and a size
Pick the tree shape (ancestors, descendants, fan) and a size that suits the number of people. More generations need a bigger sheet.
Export a PDF
A PDF keeps text and lines sharp at any size. Use an image file only when the printer or website asks for one.
Print a test
Print a section at actual size on ordinary paper to check that names are readable.
Print it
Print letter or A3 at home; send poster sizes to a print shop or online printer, and ask for matte paper to avoid glare.
Which size for how many generations
| Size | Good for | Where to print |
|---|---|---|
| Letter (11 × 8.5 in) / A4 | 3 to 4 generations, a school project | Home printer |
| A3 (16.5 × 11.7 in) | 4 to 5 generations | Home printer that takes A3, or a copy shop |
| 24 × 18 in | 5 to 6 generations, or a mid-size descendant chart | Print shop or online printer |
| 36 × 24 in | Large families, reunion walls | Print shop or online printer |
A rough check: names should be at least about 9 point when printed to read comfortably at arm’s length, and bigger for a wall poster read from a step back.
PDF or image, and resolution
A PDF stores text and lines as shapes, so they stay sharp at any size, and is what most print shops prefer. If you must send an image, make it at least 150 pixels per inch at the final size, and 300 for close viewing: a 36 × 24 inch poster at 150 ppi is 5400 × 3600 pixels. Photos inside the tree print best when the originals were scanned at 600 dpi or more.
Print-shop tips
- Ask for a digital or printed proof before the full run.
- Matte or satin paper avoids glare on a wall; heavier paper survives a reunion.
- Say whether you want it scaled to fit or printed at actual size.
- Leave a margin if the poster will be framed.
- Large posters can be shipped rolled in a tube; flatten them under books for a day.
Doing this in Family Trees
With Plus or Lifetime, Family Trees prints a poster of any tree view at Letter, A3, 24 × 18 in or 36 × 24 in, or saves it as a PDF or image. The family book prints a page for everyone. On the Free plan, our printable templates are free. See printing a poster.
Questions
What size should a family tree poster be?
Letter or A4 suits three or four generations; A3 handles about five; 24 × 18 or 36 × 24 inches works for larger families and reunion walls. Choose the size that keeps names readable.
Should I print a family tree as a PDF or an image?
A PDF, when possible. It keeps text and lines sharp at any size and is what print shops prefer. If an image is required, make it at least 150 pixels per inch at the final size.
Where can I print a large family tree?
Most print shops, office supply stores and online poster printers handle 24 × 36 inch prints. Ask for a proof first and choose matte paper to avoid glare.
Questions? Email support@familytreesapp.com and a person will reply.