What Size Custom Pet Portrait Should You Choose?
Quick answer: Choose a 4 x 4 in portrait for a compact desk or bedside spot, 6 x 6 in for a small shelf, 8 x 8 in for a more noticeable gift, and 12 x 12 in when you have room for a larger display. These are display suggestions, not rules: measure the space first and compare the actual product options before ordering.
Pet Days 3D portrait sizes at a glance
The current hand-painted 3D layered portrait comes in four square sizes, each with a 3-layer or 5-layer choice. Prices below were checked on September 16, 2026 and may change; the product page has the current price and availability.
| Size | 3 layers | 5 layers | Suggested display |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 x 4 in (10 x 10 cm) | $39 | $59 | Desk or bedside |
| 6 x 6 in (15 x 15 cm) | $79 | $99 | Small shelf |
| 8 x 8 in (20 x 20 cm) | $99 | $149 | Visible gift display |
| 12 x 12 in (30 x 30 cm) | $149 | $199 | Larger shelf or display area |
Start with the display space, not the biggest size
A portrait should fit the place where the recipient will actually see it. If you are buying a gift, ask yourself whether it will sit on a work desk, a bedside table, a bookcase, or a larger surface. A compact piece can feel personal in a small space; a larger portrait gives the pet's face more presence when there is room around it.
For a memorial gift, do not assume a larger piece is more comforting. A quieter size may be easier for someone to keep nearby. If you are unsure, choose the size that fits their home and let the real pet photo carry the meaning.
What changes when you choose 5 layers?
Both options are hand-painted layered portraits, not flat photo prints. Choose 3 layers when you want the format at its lower starting price. Choose 5 layers if more visible separation between painted features matters to you. The number of layers is a style decision; photo quality still matters at every size.
Prepare the photo before choosing the final size
A clear photo showing the eyes, ears, face shape, and coat markings gives the artist useful reference. A larger canvas does not repair a blurry or heavily filtered image. If your favorite photo is imperfect, gather one or two additional views for details. Read the pet portrait photo guide before ordering.
Custom artwork also needs making and delivery time. If the portrait is for a birthday or holiday, check the current portrait timeline before setting a gift date.
Prefer a different shape or display?
Pet Days also makes hand-painted glass pet portraits. The current glass sizes are 14.5 x 19 cm, 17 x 21.5 cm, and 22 x 26.5 cm. These are a different product and format, so compare their proportions and current prices on the glass portrait page rather than treating them as equivalent to the square 3D sizes.
Choose your portrait
Want a square, layered keepsake? Compare the available 3D sizes and layers.
Want a different proportion for a shelf or desk? See the hand-painted glass portrait.
Frequently asked questions
Is 4 x 4 in too small for a pet portrait?
Not if the intended space is compact and the pet's face is clear in the reference photo. It is a practical starting point for a desk or bedside display. For a larger surface, compare 6 x 6 or 8 x 8 in.
Should I buy 3 layers or 5 layers?
Start with the available space and budget. Both are layered, hand-painted portraits; 5 layers is the option for more visible separation between painted elements. Check the product images and current variant prices before choosing.
What if I am buying for someone else?
Choose a size that suits the recipient's home and a photo that unmistakably looks like their pet. If you are unsure of either, review the home display guide and ask for another reference photo before ordering.
