A Guide to Standard Picture Frame Sizes
We’re here to help you pick out the perfect picture frame size!
Picture frames are an essential for your home, whether you want to hang treasured family photos or fun wall art. Frames are an opportunity to get creative – you can mismatch frames or choose a color that coordinates with room decor. However, it can be difficult to find the right picture frame size. There are many common picture frame sizes to accommodate your framing needs – read on to find out more!
In this guide:
Standard Picture Frame Sizes
How to Frame a Picture
Standard Picture Frame Sizes
Small picture frames are a great option for someone who has limited wall space or lots of family photos. By hanging smaller frames, you can fit more pictures on your walls. You can hang many smaller pictures or leave lots of wall space to highlight the images you choose to hang. Smaller frames also look great surrounding a larger frame.
Medium picture frames are typically thought of as the standard picture frame size. This option is perfect for displaying photos on a desk or wall. This size is also perfect for medium-size art prints.
Large picture frames are a fun addition to your home decor. You can use these frames to display large art pieces or to create a collage of your favorite photographs. A simple frame will let the art shine, while an ornate or brightly colored frame will add personality.
Extra-large frames are attention grabbers – you can use one of these frames as a centerpiece of your room decor. Perfect for hanging above the couch, bed, or fireplace, these picture frames help you make a statement with your space. Don’t be afraid to surround an extra-large frame with smaller wall art; this style can make a previously blank wall more lively.
How to Frame a Picture
Step 1: Measure your picture.
Lay your picture or print flat on a level surface. Measure its height and width. If your picture has white borders and you don’t want them to show, be sure to trim them off before you take your measurements to ensure the final measurement is accurate.
A mat is a thin paper material that adds additional color and helps to accentuate the photograph or artwork. It also helps keep the art or photo from slipping or separating from the glass of the picture frame. The matting will overlap the photograph slightly and allow you to tape the photograph to the back of the matting to keep it secure. If you would like to include a mat, you must first determine its interior dimensions. To do so, subtract 1/2" from the height and width of the picture. This will allow you to find a mat with the correct interior dimensions.
Step 2: Choose a frame that fits your picture or matting size.
If you choose to use a mat, use the outer dimensions of your mat border to help you find the perfect frame.The border will be equal on all sides and won’t overpower the photograph or artwork. Consider how you want the final picture to look. If you want the picture to be neatly framed with matting, choose a picture frame that is large enough to show the matting. If you want the matting to make a larger impact, opt for a larger frame. For a traditional look, it is recommended to have a mat border with a thickness of 2" – 4".
Standard picture frame sizes tell you the dimensions of the interior of the frame, making it easier for you to find the perfect fit. Make sure the width of the frame is complementary to your picture, neither too thin nor too thick. A family photo looks best in a simpler frame that lets the photo shine, while artwork can be dressed up or down with fancier frames.
Step 3: Slide your picture inside the frame!
Your work is done. For tips on how and where to hang wall art and frames, check out our guide on How to Hang Wall Art.
Tip!
Make sure you check the mount type of your picture frame before you order. Frames are typically built for hanging, mounting, or both.
