Father's Day Print for an 8x10 Frame

A Father’s Day print works best when it is simple: one short, heartfelt line of text, plenty of white space, and a frame dad can set on a desk or shelf. This one is sized for a standard 8×10 frame, so a ready-made frame from any craft or discount store will fit it.

The idea is to let a single sentiment about fatherhood do the work. Pick a short message that sounds like your dad, and let the design stay quiet around it.

The Design

Start with an 8×10 inch portrait page. Keep the layout centered, with at least one inch of empty margin on every side, so the frame’s mat or edge never crowds the words.

Wording: Keep it to one short sentence or two brief lines. If you use a famous quote, check who said it before you credit anyone. Your own words are just as good.
Type: Pair a bold, clean font for the key word with a softer script for the supporting words. Make the most important word the largest.
Colors: Navy, charcoal, kraft brown and cream feel masculine without being dull. Choose two colors plus white, and no more.
Accents: A thin line above or below the text, a small star, or a simple tie or mustache icon is plenty.

How to Make Your Own

Open any design app or word processor and set the page to 8×10 inches. Use a custom size if letter-size is the only default.
Fill the background with a solid cream or pale gray, or leave it white to save ink.
Type your message and place it in the center. Adjust the line breaks so the lines stack in a pleasing shape, with short lines above and below longer ones.
Choose your fonts and colors, then add one small accent. Stop there.
Print a test on plain paper first and hold it in the frame to check the margins.
Print the final copy on heavyweight matte paper or cardstock. Set the printer to its best quality setting.

If your printer can’t handle 8×10 paper, print on letter-size paper and trim it with a paper cutter to 8×10 inches. Keep the design inside the trimmed area. A print shop can also do the job on photo paper.

Prefer to work by hand? Letter the words in pencil first, then trace over them with a fine marker or brush pen. Erase the pencil once the ink is dry.

Ways to Use It

Framed gift: Slip the print into a black or natural wood frame and wrap it in kraft paper tied with twine.
Office or workshop: A print with bold type looks right above a desk, a workbench or in a garage.
Kid-made version: Let children add a handprint, a doodle or their own signature in the margin before framing. Use washable paint, and keep it away from little ones who might put it in their mouths.
Grandfathers and stepdads: Change one word in the message and the same design suits any father figure.
Card and print set: Print a second copy at 5×7 inches, fold it inside a card and tuck a handwritten note beside it.

Give the frame a quick check before wrapping. Make sure the glass is clean, the backing is secure and the print sits straight. A small piece of removable tape on the back keeps the paper from sliding.