How to Print a Family Tree: A Comprehensive Guide & Free Template
Creating a family tree is a deeply rewarding experience, connecting you to generations past and solidifying your family’s history. While digital family trees are popular, there’s something incredibly special about a printed family tree – a tangible heirloom you can display and share. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about how to print a family tree, from choosing the right family tree font and paper size to creating a stunning family tree poster or family tree banner. I’ve spent years helping clients organize and present their genealogical research, and I’ll share my insights to make your project a success. We'll cover how to make a family tree on paper, options for a large family tree poster, and even how to create a visually appealing word family poster for educational purposes. Plus, I'm including a free, downloadable template to get you started!
Why Print a Family Tree? Beyond the Digital
In a world dominated by digital information, the act of physically printing a family tree offers unique benefits. It’s a beautiful piece of artwork for your home, a conversation starter, and a lasting legacy for future generations. Digital trees are fantastic for research and collaboration, but a printed version feels more… permanent. It’s something you can annotate, add photos to, and truly personalize. Consider these scenarios:
- Family Reunions: A large printed tree is a focal point for discussion and connection.
- Gifts: A personalized family tree makes a thoughtful and unique gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.
- Educational Tool: A word family poster can help children learn about their ancestors and understand their heritage.
- Home Decor: A well-designed family tree banner or poster adds a personal touch to any room.
Choosing the Right Template & Software
You have several options for creating your printed family tree. You can draw one by hand (a truly personal touch!), use dedicated genealogy software, or utilize general design programs like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Adobe Illustrator. For beginners, I highly recommend starting with a template. This saves time and ensures a visually appealing result. My free template (link at the end of this article) is designed for easy customization in Microsoft Word.
Here's a quick breakdown of software options:
| Software | Pros | Cons | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Word | Widely available, easy to use for basic trees. | Limited design flexibility compared to dedicated software. | Part of Microsoft Office Suite (paid) |
| Google Docs | Free, cloud-based, collaborative. | Similar limitations to Word. | Free |
| Adobe Illustrator | Professional-level design control. | Steep learning curve, expensive. | Subscription-based (paid) |
| Family Tree Maker | Dedicated genealogy software, integrates with online databases. | Can be complex for beginners. | One-time purchase (paid) |
| Legacy Family Tree | Another popular genealogy software option. | Similar to Family Tree Maker. | Various versions, some free, some paid. |
Designing Your Family Tree: Fonts, Layout & Size
Once you’ve chosen your software and template, it’s time to design your tree. Here are some key considerations:
Family Tree Font Choices
The font you choose significantly impacts the readability and aesthetic of your tree. Opt for clear, legible fonts, especially for names and dates. Avoid overly ornate or script fonts that can be difficult to decipher. Here are some good options:
- Serif Fonts: Times New Roman, Garamond – Classic and readable.
- Sans-Serif Fonts: Arial, Helvetica – Modern and clean.
- Handwriting Fonts (use sparingly): Consider using a handwriting font for headings or decorative elements, but not for essential information.
Font size is crucial. Ensure names and dates are large enough to read easily, even from a distance. Experiment with different sizes until you find a balance that looks visually appealing.
Layout Options
There are several common family tree layouts:
- Traditional Tree: The most common layout, with ancestors branching out from a central point.
- Circular Tree: A visually interesting option, but can be more challenging to organize.
- Horizontal Tree: Good for displaying a large number of descendants.
- Fan Chart: Popular in genealogy, showing ancestors in a fan-like arrangement.
Choose a layout that best suits the size of your family and the amount of information you want to include.
Determining the Right Size: Family Tree Print Considerations
The size of your family tree print will depend on how much information you have and where you plan to display it. Here are some common sizes:
- Small (8.5" x 11"): Suitable for smaller families or as a starting point.
- Medium (11" x 17"): A good compromise between size and detail.
- Large (18" x 24" or larger): Ideal for displaying a large family tree with lots of information. This is where a large family tree poster really shines.
- Banner Size (variable): For a family tree banner, consider the length of the space where it will be hung.
Remember to consider the resolution of your images and the capabilities of your printer when choosing a size. Larger prints require higher resolution images to avoid pixelation.
Printing Your Family Tree: Paper & Printer Settings
The quality of your print depends on the paper you use and your printer settings. Here’s what you need to know:
Paper Choices
- Standard Printer Paper: Suitable for drafts or smaller trees.
- Matte Photo Paper: Provides a professional look and is ideal for displaying photos.
- Glossy Photo Paper: Offers vibrant colors but can be prone to fingerprints.
- Archival Paper: Acid-free paper designed to last for generations. This is the best choice for a lasting heirloom.
Printer Settings
Before printing, adjust your printer settings for optimal results:
- Paper Type: Select the correct paper type in your printer settings.
- Print Quality: Choose “High” or “Best” quality for the sharpest images and text.
- Color Management: If you’re printing in color, ensure your printer is properly calibrated.
- Scaling: Make sure the tree is scaled to fit the paper size. Avoid “Fit to Page” as it can distort the image.
If you’re printing a very large tree, consider using a professional printing service. They have the equipment and expertise to produce high-quality prints in large formats.
Adding Photos & Personal Touches
Photos bring your family tree to life! Scan old photos and incorporate them into your design. You can also add other personal touches, such as birthdates, marriage dates, and brief biographical information. Consider using color coding to differentiate branches of the family.
Preserving Your Family Tree
Once printed, protect your family tree from damage. Consider framing it under glass or laminating it. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For digital backups, save your tree in multiple formats (e.g., PDF, JPG) and store them in a secure location.
Resources & Further Information
Here are some helpful resources:
- IRS.gov: For information on record keeping and potential tax implications related to genealogical research. (https://www.irs.gov/)
- Ancestry.com: A popular online genealogy resource. (https://www.ancestry.com/)
- FamilySearch.org: A free genealogy resource provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (https://www.familysearch.org/)
Download Your Free Family Tree Template!
Click here to download my free, customizable Microsoft Word family tree template!
Disclaimer: I am not a legal or financial professional. This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Consult with a qualified professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.