Frame Sizes Guide – Find the Perfect Fit for Every Picture

June 12, 2023

Framing your pictures, artworks, certificates and posters is more than just a matter of aesthetics—it's a thoughtful decision that plays a key role in both the functionality and visual impact of your piece. The right frame not only enhances the appearance of what's inside but also protects it, preserves its condition and gives it a polished, finished look. Whether you're showcasing a cherished photograph, a valuable piece of art or an important document, choosing the right frame can significantly elevate its presence. One of the first and most crucial steps in this process is selecting the appropriate picture frame size. With so many options available, understanding standard frame sizes, how they correspond to various types of artwork and what they’re commonly used for is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to help you confidently choose the perfect frame for your specific needs.

Why Frame Sizes Matter

The size of a picture frame has a direct impact on how the photo or artwork appears in your space. Choosing the correct frame size is important for several reasons:

Proper Fit and Protection: A frame that fits your image perfectly keeps it securely in place and protects it from bending, creasing or getting damaged.
Visual Balance: A correctly sized frame brings harmony and proportion to the piece, especially when viewed from a distance or placed alongside other framed items.
Ease of Framing: Standard sizes allow you to purchase pre-made frames easily without needing a custom frame every time, saving time and cost.
Interior Design Compatibility: Whether you’re creating a gallery wall or decorating a small corner, frame sizes determine the layout, spacing and visual impact in your room.

Understanding these factors ensures that your framed piece looks polished, professional and cohesive with your decor. Why Frame Sizes matter title with detail.

Understanding Frame Size Terminology

To choose the right frame, it's important to know the difference between several commonly used measurements:

Image Size: This refers to the actual dimensions of the photo or artwork you want to frame, such as 8x10 inches or 16x20 inches.
Frame Size (Opening Size): This is the internal size of the frame, designed to match the image size. A frame labeled 8x10 inches will fit an 8x10 image.
Outer Frame Size: This includes the moulding or border width. It’s the overall external dimensions of the frame and is usually slightly larger than the opening.
Mat Opening Size: If your frame includes a mat (a border placed between the artwork and the frame), this is the size of the window cut into the mat, which is typically slightly smaller than the image to hold it in place.

By understanding these terms, you can avoid mismatched sizes and ensure your image fits perfectly within the frame.

Standard Picture Frame Sizes and Their Common Uses

Small Frame Sizes (4x6, 5x7, 6x8 inches)

These frames are ideal for personal photographs and smaller prints. They are often displayed on tabletops, bookshelves or clustered on a gallery wall.

4x6 inches: This is the most common photo print size. Ideal for casual snapshots, family photos and vacation pictures. It fits well in collage frames or small desk displays.
5x7 inches: Slightly larger and more formal. Often used for portraits, certificates of appreciation or art prints with finer detail.
6x8 inches: Not as common but perfect for greeting cards, illustrations or special prints that don’t fit traditional photo sizes.

Medium Frame Sizes (8x10, 8.5x11, 11x14 inches)

These frames strike a balance between being compact and impactful.

8x10 inches: A go-to size for framed portraits, professional headshots and family photos. This size also works well when paired with a mat inside a larger frame (e.g., 11x14 frame with 8x10 mat opening).
8.5x11 inches: The standard size for documents and certificates, such as diplomas or awards. This frame is perfect for home offices or gallery walls with a formal touch.
11x14 inches: Ideal for framing 8x10 images with a mat or small posters. This size is often used in gallery arrangements or for standalone statement photos.

Large Frame Sizes (16x20, 18x24, 20x24, 24x36 inches)

These sizes are perfect for framing posters, artwork and large prints. They draw attention and serve as visual focal points.

16x20 inches: Popular for wedding photos, professional portraits or artworks. Often used with a mat to frame an 11x14 or 12x16 print.
18x24 inches: A preferred size for posters, art prints or marketing materials. Works well in living rooms or office spaces.
20x24 inches: Ideal for fine art, canvas board pieces and prints with strong detail. Provides a substantial visual impact without dominating the space.
24x36 inches: A standard poster size for movie prints, large art prints or promotional pieces. Best for wide open wall spaces and modern interiors.

How Mats Affect Frame Sizes

A mat is a paper or cardboard border that surrounds your image inside the frame. It serves both decorative and functional purposes:

Enhances Presentation: Mats create visual breathing room between the artwork and frame, making the piece stand out more prominently.
Provides Protection: They prevent the image from touching the glass, which can cause damage over time.
Allows Flexibility in Sizing: You can fit a smaller image into a larger frame by using a mat.

For example, an 8x10 photo can be framed in an 11x14 frame with a mat that has a 7.5x9.5 inch opening (slightly smaller to hold the image).

Always ensure the outer mat size matches the frame size and the mat opening size matches your image size.

Tips for Choosing the Right Frame Size

To select the ideal frame, consider the following:

Measure Your Image: Use a ruler or measuring tape to get the exact width and height in inches or centimeters.
Determine Orientation: Is the image portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal)? Make sure the frame matches.
Decide on Mat Usage: Using a mat enhances presentation but will require a larger frame.
Match Your Space: Consider where the frame will hang. Larger frames suit wide-open walls, while smaller frames are better for shelves or grouped displays.
Think About Grouping: If you plan a gallery wall, opt for consistent frame sizes or a mix of harmonized sizes for visual balance.

When to Go for Custom Frame Sizes

Sometimes your artwork doesn’t fit into standard sizes—especially with original paintings, panoramic photos or non-traditional documents. In these cases, a custom frame is the best solution.

Advantages of custom frames:

Perfect fit for unusual dimensions.
Tailored mat openings and frame styles.
Professional finish and protection for valuable items.

At Framorey, we offer custom-size picture frames crafted in Scotland using high-quality materials. Simply enter your image dimensions, select a style and finish and we’ll deliver a handcrafted frame made to last.

Conclusion

Standard picture frame sizes simplify the process of displaying and preserving your most cherished memories and artworks. From small personal photos to oversized prints, knowing the right size helps you select the perfect frame for both aesthetic and practical needs.

At Framorey, we provide both standard and custom picture frames to suit every image, wall space and style. Whether you're decorating a gallery wall or framing a one-of-a-kind artwork, you’ll find expertly crafted frames made in the UK with attention to detail and design.

Need help picking the right size? Reach out to us at Framorey and we’ll guide you in finding the perfect frame to match your vision.