Which Creation Size Is Right for You? The Complete Size Guide

One of the most common questions we get: "What size should I order?"

It's an important choice. Each size has its own charm and purpose. Here's how to decide.

Our Size Options at a Glance

Size in Real-World Context

3cm — Pocket

About the size of:

• A large grape
• A small keychain charm
• The tip of your thumb to the first knuckle

Feels like: A tiny treasure you can carry with you. Perfect for keeping close.

5cm — Desk Buddy

About the size of:

• A golf ball
• A large strawberry
• Two stacked AA batteries

Feels like: A purposeful display piece—substantial but compact. Our most popular choice.

6cm — Buddy

About the size of:

• A small lemon
• A chicken egg
• A standard Post-it note (height)

Feels like: Great for hands-on enjoyment. The ideal gift size—impressive but not overwhelming.

8cm — Showpiece

About the size of:

• A smartphone (width)
• A deck of cards (height)
• A small apple

Feels like: A statement piece—clearly meant to be seen and admired.

Choosing Based on Use Case

Desktop/Office Display

Recommended: 5cm (Desk Buddy) or 6cm (Buddy)

The sweet spot for desk placement. Visible during video calls, conversation starter for visitors, doesn't crowd your workspace.

Gift for Someone

Recommended: 5cm (Desk Buddy) or 6cm (Buddy)

Both are excellent gift sizes. Desk Buddy is compact and versatile; Buddy is slightly larger and more impressive for unwrapping.

Memorial Display

Recommended: 6cm (Buddy) or 8cm (Showpiece)

Personal choice based on intended prominence. Showpiece makes a statement; Buddy fits naturally alongside other keepsakes.

Portable Keepsake

Recommended: 3cm (Pocket)

Small enough to attach to keys, bags, or keep in a pocket. Take your loved one or pet with you everywhere.

Children's Gift

Recommended: 6cm (Buddy)

"Great for play" — robust enough for little hands, impressive enough to delight.

Collectible Display

Recommended: 3cm (Pocket) or 5cm (Desk Buddy)

If it's joining a collection, consider your display space. Multiple smaller creations create a charming ensemble.

Maximum Detail

Recommended: 8cm (Showpiece)

When you want every detail visible—facial expressions, clothing textures, pet fur patterns.

Detail Visibility by Size

Here's what you can typically appreciate at each size:

3cm (Pocket)

• Overall pose and proportions
• General facial features
• Basic clothing shapes
• Pet breed recognition

5cm (Desk Buddy)

• Clear facial expressions
• Clothing details and colors
• Individual features
• Pet markings and fur direction

6cm (Buddy)

• Good facial detail
• Clothing textures visible
• Accessory details
• Excellent balance of detail and size

8cm (Showpiece)

• Fine facial details
• Fabric textures
• Subtle expressions
• Complex patterns fully visible
• Maximum lifelike quality

Price Considerations

Larger sizes cost more because:

• More material used
• Longer print time
• More color work
• Greater complexity in finishing

The 5cm (Desk Buddy) offers the best balance of detail and value for most people. The 6cm (Buddy) is ideal for gifts.

Visual Size Test

Before deciding, try this:

1. Take an object of approximately the size you're considering
2. Place it where you plan to display the creation
3. Step back
4. Ask: "Does this feel right?"

A golf ball is close to our 5cm Desk Buddy—perfect for testing.

Common Size Mistakes

Going Too Small

"It'll be fine" → Receives creation → "I wish I could see more detail"

Fix: When in doubt, choose 5cm or 6cm over 3cm.

Going Too Large

"Bigger is better" → Receives creation → "This is larger than I expected"

Fix: Measure your display space first. 8cm is genuinely substantial.

Forgetting About Bases

The base adds a bit to the footprint. Factor this into your space planning.

Our Recommendation

If you're unsure: Go with 5cm (Desk Buddy) or 6cm (Buddy).

• 5cm Desk Buddy — Best for desks, shelves, and everyday display
• 6cm Buddy — Best for gifts and hands-on enjoyment

Both are popular for good reason: detailed enough to appreciate, compact enough to display anywhere.

Ready to choose? Start creating at paperla.com/workshop and see your design come to life.