Here's how to choose the perfect custom frame.
At FrameWorthy.com, we believe high-quality custom framing should be accessible and effortless. We’re here to bridge the gap between generic store-bought frames and the high cost of traditional custom framing—offering beautifully crafted, made-to-order frames without the sticker shock. Before you start designing the perfect frame for your artwork or photos, here’s what you need to know about the process!
Understanding Frame Dimensions: What You Need to Know
Frame dimensions can be tricky, but we’re here to make them simple! When choosing a frame, it's important to consider more than just the inside and outside measurements. Moulding width, rabbet depth, and mat dimensions all play a role—especially if you're working with limited wall space. If you’ve ever wondered how to find the perfect fit, you’re not alone! Here are answers to some of the most common questions about frame sizing.
How to Measure for the Perfect Frame
When you’re ordering a frame, we’re asking for the inside dimensions—the size of the artwork opening. For example, if your image is 6 inches by 8 inches, you should select a 6x8 frame. While it might seem like the dimensions refer to the outside edges of the frame, they actually represent the size of the opening where your artwork will sit.
If you're framing a 4x6 image, choose a 4x6 frame, regardless of the frame’s overall outer dimensions. Keep in mind, some frame styles may overlap the edges of your image slightly (usually about ¼ inch or less).
To ensure a perfect fit, our frames are cut slightly larger than the inputted artwork dimensions, allowing for an ⅛ inch tolerance all around. This extra space accommodates the acrylic, artwork, backing, and matting, so your piece fits comfortably without being too tight.
How to Measure for a Mat
When ordering a mat, the artwork should sit centered underneath the opening, with a slight overlap to cover the edges. This ensures the mat secures your image and gives it a polished, professional look. Keep in mind, adding a mat will increase the overall dimensions of your frame.
For example, if you have a 5x8 image, a standard mat will typically create a 2-inch border around the artwork, resulting in a 9x12 mat. The outer dimensions of the mat will match the inner opening dimensions of the frame.
If you choose to add double or triple mats, the typical reveal—the portion of the middle or bottom mats that shows beneath the top mat—is usually around ¼ inch. However, both the reveal and the top mat border can be customized to your design preferences.
As you customize your mat, our software will automatically adjust the overall dimensions of your frame to ensure everything fits perfectly in your space. This makes it easier than ever to design a custom frame that works with your room’s layout.
How to Measure Your Artwork
The size of your artwork is not always the same as the paper size, unless the image bleeds to the edge. For example, an 8.5x11 inch sheet of paper typically has a printable area of 8x10 inches, leaving a small border that will be hidden by the framing material.
When entering the size of your artwork, input the dimensions of the portion you want to be visible. If you’re not adding a mat, the border of your print will need to be trimmed to fit the frame. However, if you’re including a mat, there's no need to trim the edges—the mat will cover any excess paper, ensuring a clean and professional presentation.
Using a Mat with Your Frame
When you choose a frame with a mat, the mat will slightly overlap the edges of your artwork, typically by about ¼ inch. For example, an 8x10 frame will have a mat with an opening of 7.75x9.75 inches to ensure a secure fit.
While adding a mat is optional, it offers practical benefits. Mats help keep your image flat against the backing and prevent curling, which can occur over time due to heat exposure. They also provide a professional, finished look that enhances your artwork’s presentation.
Understanding Outside Frame Size
The outside frame size refers to the overall dimensions of the frame, including the moulding. While this measurement isn’t typically a primary concern when framing artwork, it becomes important when you have limited wall space or need to fit your frame alongside other pieces.
Keep in mind, the outside dimensions of the frame can vary depending on the moulding you choose, as different frame styles have different widths. This flexibility allows you to select the right frame size to fit your space and aesthetic.
Understanding Rabbet Depth
Rabbet depth is the measurement of the space inside the frame that holds your artwork and its backing. This depth is crucial for ensuring your artwork fits properly within the frame. Typically, about ¼ inch of the listed rabbet depth is used by the acrylic and backing, so you should subtract this amount to determine the usable depth.
Rabbet depth is especially important when framing three-dimensional objects, like in shadowbox frames, or when framing stretched canvas. For these types of frames, you’ll want to make sure the rabbet depth is sufficient to accommodate the added thickness of the canvas or keepsakes.
Got Questions About Frames?
We’re here to help! Whether you’re unsure about measurements, frame styles, or how to choose the perfect fit for your artwork, our experts are ready to guide you through the process. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have about custom framing—we’re happy to assist!
