How to Choose the Right Size Picture Frame | Size for a Perfect Fit

Choosing the right picture frame size means matching the frame’s labeled inner dimensions to your artwork’s width and height, not its outer edges.

Picture frame sizing trips up nearly everyone the first time. The labeled size — say, 11″ x 14″ — is the aperture that holds the image, not the frame’s outer footprint. Getting this wrong means a frame that won’t hold your print or covers too much of the image. Here’s how to measure your art, pick the right size, and avoid the common sizing pitfalls.

Picture Frame Sizes: How They Actually Work

Frame labels refer to the inside opening that the artwork sits behind. The total outer dimensions depend on the width of the moulding (the frame border). A chunky frame labeled 8″ x 10″ may need 10″ x 12″ of wall space. The matching rule is simple: match the frame’s labeled size to your artwork’s physical width and height. If your photo is 5″ x 7″, buy a frame labeled 5″ x 7″ — the outer size will be bigger, but the opening fits.

Frames also overlap the image by roughly 1/4 inch (6 mm) on all sides to hold it in place. So a frame labeled 11″ x 14″ shows only about 10.5″ x 13.5″ of that image. Plan for this: never let critical content (faces, text, signatures) sit at the absolute edge of your photo.

For a wide selection of sizes, including the versatile 12″ x 24″ format, check out our tested roundup of the best 12×24 picture frames.

How to Measure Artwork for a Frame

Grab a rigid tape measure or a metal ruler (fabric tape stretches) and place your image on a clean flat surface.

1. Measure the widest point — left edge to right edge, in inches.
2. Measure the tallest point — top edge to bottom edge, in inches.
3. Record width first, then height (e.g., 8″ x 10″). Round to the nearest 1/16 inch for precision.

If you’re not using a mat, buy a frame whose labeled size matches your measurements exactly. If you are adding a mat, measure the outer edges of the mat board (which is typically 2–3 inches larger than the image on each side) and buy a frame matching that size.

Standard Frame Sizes and Mat Pairings

Common sizes below are widely stocked and cost less than custom orders. Custom frames are notably pricier because the mats and moulding must be cut individually.

The most popular standard image sizes include: 4″ x 6″, 5″ x 7″, 8″ x 10″, 11″ x 14″, 16″ x 20″, 18″ x 24″, and 24″ x 36″. Also common: 8.5″ x 11″ and 12″ x 16″.

Common Mistakes People Make

Four mistakes cause most returns and re-orders. First, buying a frame by its outer dimensions instead of the labeled inner size — the art won’t fit. Second, ordering for a mat but forgetting the mat adds 2–3 inches per side, so a mat for an 8″ x 10″ photo needs an 11″ x 14″ frame. Third, assuming the visible area matches the label — the 1/4-inch overlap hides image edges. Fourth, including unwanted borders in your measurement. Measure only the image itself, not the white border around it.

For non-standard prints, buy a frame larger than the art and use backing paper to hide the interior gap — a cost-effective workaround. For floating frames, the frame is deliberately larger than the art to create a visible gap; order a size at least 2 inches bigger per side.

Before you purchase, cut paper cutouts of the frame’s outer dimensions and tape them to the wall to test spacing. And always choose a frame style that enhances the art without obscuring it.

FAQs

How do I know if a frame will fit my wall space?

Check the frame’s outer dimensions, which are listed separately from the labeled inner size. Add 2–4 inches to the inner size for a rough estimate of outer width, depending on moulding thickness. Tape a paper template to the wall before buying.

Can I put an 8×10 photo in an 11×14 frame?

Yes, but you need a mat with an 8″ x 10″ opening. The mat bridges the gap between your smaller photo and the larger frame opening. This is called “matting up” and gives a classic gallery look.

What’s the difference between a standard and custom frame?

Standard frames (like 4×6 or 8×10) are mass-produced, widely available, and significantly cheaper. Custom frames are cut to any dimension you specify, plus the mat boards and moulding are made to order, making them substantially more expensive.