Ask the Experts: Standard Picture Frame Sizes
Picture perfect, every time.
Whether you're looking to hang family photos or display some arty prints, picture frames are an essential for your home. Frames help us get creative, either by mismatch different frame styles or by choosing a colour scheme that coordinates with the rest of the room decor. However, it can be tricky finding the right picture frame size. Read on to discover which frames accommodate to your needs.
Standard Picture Frame Sizes
Small picture frames are a great option for someone who has limited wall space or a lot 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-sized 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 favourite photographs. A simple frame will let the art shine, while an ornate or brightly coloured frame will add personality.
Extra large frames are attention grabbers – you can use one of these frames as a centrepiece of your room decor. Perfect for hanging above the sofa, 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 colour 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 1cm 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 5-10cm.
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 here is complete. For tips on how to go one step further and create a feature wall with your frames, check out our gallery wall guide.
Tip: Make sure you check the mount type of your picture frame before you order. Frames are typically built for hanging, mounting or both.
