Not all desks—or designs—are created equal. When it comes to custom desk mats, getting the right size and aspect ratio can make or break the look of your setup. Whether you're printing original artwork or submitting a favorite image, choosing the right format ensures your mat looks clean, centered, and high-resolution edge-to-edge.
Here’s how to get it right.
📐 Why Aspect Ratio Matters
Aspect ratio is the relationship between width and height. If your image doesn’t match the mat’s aspect ratio, it may:
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Get cropped awkwardly
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Have borders or blank space
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Look stretched or compressed
To avoid this, we either help you crop your image correctly or use AI fill to expand it naturally.
📏 Our Recommended Sizes
At PrintMyPad, we currently offer:
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36x16 inches (Wide Format)
Our flagship size—great for most desk setups. Ideal for panoramic artwork, dual monitors, or symmetrical layouts.
Aspect Ratio: 2.25:1 -
32x14 inches (Compact Wide)
Slightly smaller but still wide enough for dynamic designs. Best for smaller desks or single monitor setups.
Aspect Ratio: ~2.29:1 -
28x12 inches (Space-Saving Option)
Clean, minimalist look. Best for users who want a pad without taking over the whole desk.
Aspect Ratio: ~2.33:1
These ratios are intentionally close—this keeps design flexibility high across sizes and avoids major cropping issues when customers switch sizes.
🖼️ Image Guidelines
For best results:
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Upload images with a minimum width of 3000px
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Use images that are landscape orientation
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Avoid submitting vertical photos unless you're okay with cropping or filler expansion
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Let us know if you prefer no cropping—we can use AI to expand your image as needed
Need help? Use our Custom Order Page and we’ll review your file before printing.
🧠 Pro Tip: Use Our Preview Tool
All custom orders come with a digital mockup. This lets you:
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See exact crop points
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Adjust positioning before it’s finalized
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Confirm how your image aligns with the mat’s stitched edges
We don’t print until you approve.
✅ Conclusion
Choosing the right size isn’t just about inches—it’s about aspect ratio, resolution, and use case. With the right fit, your mat becomes the visual centerpiece of your workspace.
Still unsure? Drop us a message or send in your artwork. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
