Question 1

How do you calculate picture frame size?

Accepted Answer

To calculate picture frame size: 1) Measure your artwork width and height. 2) Add desired mat border widths (top, bottom, left, right). 3) Add frame moulding width twice (for both sides). Formula: Frame Width = Artwork Width + Left Mat + Right Mat + (Frame Moulding × 2). Frame Height = Artwork Height + Top Mat + Bottom Mat + (Frame Moulding × 2). For example, a 16×20" print with 3" mats and 1.5" frame = 25×29" outer frame.

Question 2

What size mat should I use for picture framing?

Accepted Answer

Standard mat border widths: Small prints (8×10" or smaller): 2-2.5" borders. Medium prints (11×14" to 16×20"): 2.5-3.5" borders. Large prints (20×24" and up): 3-4" borders or more. Traditional framing uses weighted mats with the bottom border 1/4" to 1/2" wider than top and sides. For example, a 16×20" print might use 3" top/sides and 3.5" bottom. The mat should complement, not overpower the artwork.

Question 3

How much does custom picture framing cost?

Accepted Answer

Custom framing costs vary widely: Basic framing (simple moulding, glass, no mat): $50-$150. Standard framing (wood moulding, mat, glass): $100-$300. Premium framing (quality moulding, double mat, UV glass): $200-$500. Gallery framing (museum-quality materials, conservation glass): $300-$1000+. Factors affecting cost: frame style, glass type (regular vs. UV-protective vs. museum), mat quantity/quality, and overall size. Large formats and specialty materials increase costs significantly.

Question 4

Should I use glass or acrylic for picture frames?

Accepted Answer

Glass vs. Acrylic comparison: Glass: Better optical clarity, scratch-resistant, traditional look. Heavy, breakable, more expensive for UV-protective versions. Use for valuable art, home display, smaller frames. Acrylic (plexiglass): Lightweight, shatter-resistant, good for large frames and high-traffic areas. Scratches easier, static attracts dust. Use for large formats, children's rooms, shipping. UV-protective acrylic offers excellent protection. Museum-quality glass/acrylic blocks 99% UV rays for conservation framing.

Question 5

What is mat board and why use it?

Accepted Answer

Mat board (matting) is thick paperboard used to separate artwork from glass and create visual space. Benefits: Protects artwork from touching glass (prevents moisture damage), adds aesthetic appeal and professionalism, provides focus and breathing room, allows signature space below artwork. Conservation mat board is acid-free and won't yellow over time. Standard mat is 4-ply (1/16" thick), but 8-ply is used for deeper shadow effect. Always use conservation-quality mats for valuable art.

Question 6

How do you cut frame moulding with miters?

Accepted Answer

Miter cutting for picture frames: 1) Calculate total frame length needed: (Width + Height) × 2. 2) Cut moulding at 45-degree angles using miter saw. 3) Miter length = (outer frame dimension) / 2. 4) Cut two pieces for width, two for height. 5) Test fit before gluing - corners should meet perfectly. 6) Use corner clamps during assembly. 7) Nail or staple from back once glue sets. Professional framers use underpinners (V-nails) for stronger joints. Precision is critical - 1/16" error multiplies to noticeable gaps.

Question 7

What are standard picture frame sizes?

Accepted Answer

Common standard frame sizes (inches): 4×6, 5×7, 8×10 (common photos). 11×14, 16×20, 18×24 (art prints). 20×24, 24×36 (posters, larger art). 11×17, 13×19 (wide-format prints). Metric standard sizes (cm): A4 (21×29.7), A3 (29.7×42), A2 (42×59.4). Standard sizes are widely available and less expensive. Custom sizes require custom cutting and cost more. When choosing artwork or purchasing prints, consider standard frame availability for cost savings.

Question 8

How do I calculate mat window opening?

Accepted Answer

Mat window (opening) calculation: The mat opening should be 1/4" to 1/2" smaller than artwork on each side to create overlap. Formula: Mat Opening Width = Artwork Width - 0.5" (for 1/4" overlap per side). Mat Opening Height = Artwork Height - 0.5". For example, 16×20" print needs 15.5×19.5" window. This overlap prevents artwork from falling through and hides any uneven edges. For oversize mats (float mounting), opening equals or exceeds artwork size to show signature/borders.

Question 9

What is the difference between single and double mats?

Accepted Answer

Single vs. Double matting: Single mat: One layer of mat board, simpler and less expensive, suitable for most framing. Double mat: Two layers with top mat cut larger to reveal bottom color (reveal), adds depth and sophistication, allows color coordination with artwork. Typical reveal is 1/4" to 3/8". Triple mats add even more depth. Double matting is popular for diplomas, certificates, and fine art. Cost increases with each layer but dramatically enhances presentation.

Question 10

How do you frame canvas without a mat?

Accepted Answer

Canvas framing options without matting: Float frame: Canvas sits in frame with gap around edges (floater frame), shows entire canvas including sides, modern gallery look. Use frame depth slightly larger than canvas depth. Flush mounting: Canvas attached directly to backing, frame sits flush against canvas face. Rabbet frames: Canvas fits into frame rabbet (groove), no mat needed, traditional look. Spacer strips: Small strips between canvas and glass create breathing room without mat. Most canvas is stretched on bars, so mats aren't necessary. Oil paintings should never touch glass.

Framing Calculator - Picture Frame Size Calculator & Custom Frame Calculator

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