Decoration guide • Triptych
How far to leave between the panels of a triptych? To start your tests, a space of 3 to 5 cm between the outer edges suitable as a decorative marker for many medium formats. Then adjust according to the width of the panels, the frame, the recoil and the continuity of the image. The instructions provided with your triptych come first.
1. Choose spacing proportionate to the panels
A small gap visually connects the three rooms. A wider space gives more air, but can reveal three separate paintings. The right choice depends on the desired result and the space available.
| Situation | Gap to test | Visual verification |
|---|---|---|
| Small panels or narrow wall | 2 to 3 cm | Don't make the pieces feel like they're touching |
| Medium format panels | 3 to 5 cm | Maintain a common reading of the three images |
| Large panels on a wide wall | 5 to 8 cm | Do not break the connection between the parts |
| Panorama with spacing instruction | Deviation indicated by the supplier | Respect image preparation and check preview |
| Framed panels | Test between the outer edges of the frames | Include the frame and its shadows in the rendering |
These ranges are test suggestions, with no fixed threshold defining a small or large format. You can compare three versions on the wall, for example 3, 5 and 7 cm, to observe the effect from your usual place.
Do not confuse the space between panels with the distance between their fixings. The location of the hooks depends on the fasteners on the back, not just the width of the canvas.
2. Calculate the total width of the triptych
For three panels of the same width, the formula is: total width = 3 × outer width of a panel + 2 × gap. For different widths, add the three outer widths and the two gaps.
| Exterior width per panel | 3 cm gap | 5 cm gap | 8 cm gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 cm | 96 cm | 100 cm | 106 cm |
| 40 cm | 126 cm | 130 cm | 136 cm |
| 50 cm | 156 cm | 160 cm | 166 cm |
Example: three panels 40 cm wide, separated by 5 cm, occupy 130 cm. You must then keep the desired margins around the group. The available width of the wall should therefore not be entirely absorbed by the calculation of the triptych alone.
If each frame measures 44 cm on the outside, the same assembly takes up 142 cm: 3 × 44 + 2 × 5. Use the dimensions of the finished product. The values in this table are simulations; they do not constitute a list of formats available from Alpha.
Above a piece of furniture, center the group as a whole. For a small accommodation, consult what size canvas to choose.
Measure between exterior frames, not in floating space



Three complete works by Monet, catalog images under schematic black contours, natural proportions. They illustrate a decorative association, not a pre-cut triptych or a continuous image. The display is not on the scale of the dimensions ordered and does not guarantee the actual profiles, shades, clearances or framing.
The three Monets above are complete works brought together for a decorative association. They do not illustrate a pre-cut continuous image or a triptych kit. Their sheets allow you to record the measurements of the presentations at the American checkout.
The installation gap is measured between the outer edges of the frames. It differs from the floating clearance located inside each box. For three tables, the total width corresponds to the three overall widths added to the two intervals.
Fictitious example: three 40 cm frames and two 6 cm spaces occupy 132 cm, excluding margins at the ends. The 6 cm is a hypothesis to test; they are not a universal rule. Use actual dimensions and fasteners before drilling.
For an image shared between three panels, the cutout, edges and voids influence the continuity of the horizon. Have the plan validated with the manufacturer rather than stretching each piece or assuming that an identical frame resolves the connections. The method of wall of frames and templates helps prepare the whole thing.
3. Preserve the continuity of a panorama
A triptych can bring together three independent images or cut out the same photograph. In the second case, spacing is part of the rendering. A horizon, road or architectural line quickly reveals an alignment shift.
Ask how the image was prepared: cut into three adjacent segments or with portions removed to account for gaps. Changing the gap does not automatically reconstruct the geometry of a scene if the preparation does not correspond to the desired effect.
Avoid placing a face or a small main subject on a separation. Have the cutting and feedback on the songs validated before production. Our guide prepare an image for a chassis explains the areas to be preserved.
For three independent photos, you have more freedom. However, maintain consistency of colors, depth and finishes in order to connect the panels. Also compare compositions of a wall of frames.

4. Test the two deviations with paper templates
- Cut out three templates the exact exterior dimensions of the panels, including frames.
- Mark the center of the group and place the central panel there if the composition is symmetrical.
- Position the side panels by measuring the same void on both sides.
- Temporarily attach templates with a product compatible with your coating, after a discreet test.
- Observe from several points : entrance, sofa and nearby passage.
- Compare another gap before remembering the composition.
Measure the voids perpendicular to the edges, at the same height, then also check at the top and bottom whether the parts should be parallel. A small wedge of the chosen width can be used for identification, without being left between the tables.
The templates validate the proportions. They do not prove the resistance of the wall or the compatibility of the fixings. The photo in your test helps compare compositions, but does not replace measurements.
5. Align the panels and report the actual fasteners
For three identical panels, choose a common top line and control it with a level. Also check the image horizon. On a triptych designed with different heights, respect the planned layout rather than imposing a vertex alignment.
Measure each attachment on the back of the product received: height from the top edge, horizontal position and engagement device. Two identical panels at the front may have slightly different attachment points. Copying the marks from the first without control can produce an offset.
Choose the fixings according to the weight of each panel, its system and the nature of the wall. Before drilling, check the location of the networks. Follow the installation instructions; for a heavy part or uncertain support, consult our hanging guide and have the assembly validated by a professional.
Once the parts are correctly engaged, check both spaces, level and stability according to the instructions. Do not force a fastener to correct a bad mark.
6. Information to be confirmed before purchasing
Ask for the dimensions of each finished panel, weight, order of parts and recommended deviation. Specify whether the announced width corresponds to the sum of the panels or to the set already spaced. This difference may change your choice of format.
Also confirm the processing of the edges, any frames and accessories included. For a personalized panorama, request an overview of the division with the voids between panels. Preparation and validation services must be confirmed before ordering.
Connect spacing to actual commissioned project
La Great Wave on chassis and his presentation at the American checkout allow you to compare the contour on the same reference. These links open an entire work, without automatically proposing its division into panels.
For a panorama or a personal photo to cut out, send the file, dimensions and intervals envisaged to Alpha Reproduction. Have the visible faces, reserves, continuity and assembly confirmed before retaining the sizes.
In any case, start with the templates, choose an alignment axis then raise each attachment point. Frames of the same appearance do not guarantee fasteners placed in exactly the same place. THE guide to exterior dimensions helps distinguish these measurements.
Our offer: validate the composition for the proposed format
Choose the presentation then check the framing of our sheet for the format chosen. Another ratio, a distribution over several canvases or an oval composition must not be automatically deduced from an available size. For a particular adaptation, have the file, visible areas and services confirmed before purchase.
Our prints use a finely textured 400 g/m² artistic canvas. The rolled version is without frame or frame. The canvas on frame is stretched by hand over 38 mm wood; the American box adds a wooden frame with a space of 5 mm around the canvas. The dimensions, edges, finishes and prices offered can be consulted depending on the work and the country of delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How much space to leave between the panels of a triptych?
Start with a 3 to 5 cm test for a medium format. Adjust according to the product, the wall and the recoil, respecting the supplier's instructions.
Is there exactly the same gap on both sides?
For regular composition, yes. Measure the vacuum between the outer edges and control both spaces after installation.
Is distance measured between frames or images?
For installation, measure between the outer edges of the finished parts. The width of the frame is part of the product.
How wide is a triptych of three 40 cm panels?
With two gaps of 5 cm, it occupies 130 cm if the 40 cm corresponds to the external dimensions. Add the desired margins around the group.
Can we leave 10 cm between the panels?
This may be suitable for some compositions, but the panels may appear more independent. Test with templates and check the continuity of a panorama.
Should you center the middle panel on the sofa?
For a symmetrical set, this also centers the group. If the widths or deviations differ, calculate the center of the complete footprint.
How to correct a panel lower than the others?
First check the position and engagement of its attachment. Use only the settings provided by the system or resume installation; do not force the fixings.
Benchmarks and method
Guide prepared on October 10, 2026. Spacer ranges are decorative suggestions to test, without a universal standard. The calculations add the exterior dimensions of the three panels and the two voids. Product instructions determine layout and installation. For Alpha options, see contact page. AI-generated mock illustrations, without exact measurement scale or representation of real Alpha products.
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