How to print a family tree (paper sizes and tips)
A family tree really comes to life on paper. This guide covers exporting a print-ready file and choosing the right settings so your chart looks its best.
Export a print-ready file
From the editor, open the Export / Print dialog. You can produce:
- PDF - vector output that stays crisp at any size, ideal for printing.
- PNG - a high-resolution image, handy for sharing on screens.
PDF is the best choice for printing because it scales without becoming blurry.
Choose a paper size
Pick a size based on how large your tree is and where you will print:
- A4 / US Letter - great for small trees and home printers.
- A3 - more room for a few generations.
- A2 / A1 (poster) - for large trees with many people.
If your tree is wide, a larger sheet keeps names readable. The app scales the layout to fit the sheet you select.
Portrait or landscape?
- Landscape suits wide trees with many people in the same generation.
- Portrait suits tall, narrow trees that span many generations.
Try both in the preview and keep whichever frames your tree best.
Printing a large tree as a poster
For big trees, home printers cannot produce a single large sheet. Use the tiling option to print at actual size across several A4 or Letter pages, then assemble them like a poster. This is a budget-friendly way to get a wall-sized chart without a professional printer.
Tips for a frame-worthy result
- Add birth and death years so the chart tells a fuller story.
- Add photos where you have them - portraits make the tree feel personal.
- Choose a theme that matches your decor before exporting.
- Print on slightly heavier paper for a premium feel.
Save your work first
Before a big print run, export a JSON backup of your tree so you never lose your layout. See GEDCOM vs JSON for details.
Ready to print? Open the editor and head to Export / Print.