Multi Panel Layouts

Panels that read as one image, not several parts

Multi panel layouts work best when the artwork, photograph or brand image has a clear flow across each panel. We plan the crop points, spacing and panel sizes so the finished set feels balanced on the wall and does not look cramped or uneven. For a diptych, triptych or grid, the gap between panels is just as important as the print itself, because the eye needs room to move from one section to the next.

SubAlu produces dye sublimation prints on coated aluminium panels, which gives strong colour, crisp detail and a clean surface finish. That makes the format suitable for portrait work, landscapes, architectural images and corporate display walls. Gloss, matte, white and brushed finishes can all be used, depending on the image and the room lighting. Coastal offices in Durban often prefer matte to reduce glare, while galleries in Johannesburg may choose gloss for deeper tonal contrast.

What is included in a multi panel order

Each order is checked before printing so the layout suits the image and the final wall size. We look at resolution, cropping, tonal balance and how the image will sit across the joins. If a file is better suited to two large panels than four smaller ones, we will say so before production starts. That saves time and avoids a layout that feels too busy.

• File checks for image quality and sizing
• Resolution review for sharpness across all panels
• Colour preparation for consistent output between panels
• Crop planning so faces, horizons and key details are placed correctly
• Finish selection for gloss, matte, white or brushed aluminium
• Mounting options for wall hanging
• Test panels where a project needs extra confirmation
• Packing and delivery to Randburg, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha

Customers must own the images or have the rights to use them. That applies to personal, commercial and promotional work alike.

How the layout is planned before anything is printed

The process starts with the supplied file and the wall size you want to cover. We map the image into panel sections, checking that important parts are not cut through awkwardly. A skyline, wedding portrait or product image can all need different treatment, especially when one panel is wider than the others or when a grid needs exact symmetry. If needed, we prepare a test layout so the spacing can be confirmed before the full set is made.

• Step 1: send the image and your preferred panel count
• Step 2: we assess resolution and the safest crop points
• Step 3: finish, size and mounting method are confirmed
• Step 4: the panels are printed and cured for handling
• Step 5: finishing, drilling or mounting hardware is applied
• Step 6: packing and delivery are arranged from our Randburg base

For clients in Sandton, Midrand and greater Johannesburg, the layout stage is often the most useful part of the service because it helps match the artwork to a boardroom wall, reception area or home feature wall without guesswork.

Sizes, finishes and wall spacing that work in real rooms

Multi panel aluminium sets are usually ordered as equal panels, but mixed widths can also work when the composition needs it. Smaller home pieces may use two or three panels around 300 to 600 mm wide each, while larger corporate installations can run well beyond 1 metre per panel depending on the image and wall space. The spacing between panels is planned with the room in mind. Too wide and the image breaks apart, too tight and the join can disappear in an awkward way.

Finish choice affects how the image performs in natural light and under indoor lighting. Gloss gives stronger shine and richer colour depth, matte cuts reflections in bright rooms, white aluminium supports clean colour reproduction, and brushed aluminium leaves the metal texture visible where the design allows it.

• Best for panoramic images, team photos and brand visuals
• Suitable for interior walls in homes, studios, hotels and offices
• Can be made as horizontal, vertical or square panel sets
• Hanging hardware is selected for the panel weight and layout

Turnaround and production rhythm from Randburg

Turnaround depends on the size of the layout, the number of panels and whether special mounting is needed. A smaller multi panel order can move quickly once the artwork is approved, while larger wall installations take longer because alignment and finishing have to be correct across every section. If a client needs delivery to Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria or Gqeberha, transit time is added to the production schedule.

We keep the workflow practical: file review, layout planning, production, finishing, quality check and dispatch. That makes it easier to manage urgent office rollouts, exhibition deadlines and client gifts without rushing the colour work. Where a reprint match is needed for an existing set, we compare the new job to the earlier finish and colour handling so the panels sit together properly.

Pricing that reflects layout work, not guesswork

Pricing is based on the number of panels, the finished size, the chosen surface, the amount of layout work and any mounting extras. A diptych is usually simpler than a six panel grid, so the quote follows the real production steps rather than a flat rate. Custom sizing, test panels and special packing can also affect the final amount. That keeps the pricing fair for both small private orders and larger commercial runs.

For business clients in Johannesburg and Pretoria, the quote often includes packing considerations for reception walls, fit out work or courier delivery. For photographers and artists, the main cost drivers are image size, finish choice and how much crop adjustment is needed to keep the artwork true to the original composition.

• No hidden add-ons for standard file review
• Custom layouts are quoted according to actual panel count and size
• Mounting hardware is priced according to weight and format
• Delivery is arranged separately where required

Care notes once the set is on the wall

Aluminium photo panels are easy to live with, but they still need sensible handling. Dust can be removed with a soft dry cloth, and fingerprints are best avoided by handling the edges during installation. A panel should not be scrubbed with harsh cleaners or abrasive pads because that can mark the surface. In coastal areas, especially around Durban and Gqeberha, keeping the room dry and wiping the panels lightly now and then helps preserve the finish in humid conditions.

If a panel is moved, reinstalled or replaced later, keep the original layout notes and panel order if possible. That makes it easier to match spacing and keep the whole set aligned. Should you need advice on another panel in the same series, we can help with colour matching and reprint matching so the new piece sits naturally with the original set.

Clients reach us through the enquiry form on our contact page when they need a quote, a layout check or a size recommendation for a wall that has to work first time.