Picture Frame Sizes Made Simple: How to Match Frames to Prints, Photos and Posters

There is nothing like a good photograph, family portrait or poster that can be enhanced by a fitting picture frame. An ideal frame not only helps in highlighting key elements but complements your interior as well and transforms a regular print into something worthy of being displayed. But deciding on a perfect standard picture frame for your print requires some effort, as there are many factors that affect the process.

If you have prints, photos or artwork to be framed, then understanding the measurements of the picture frames will ensure that you don’t waste money in getting it sized wrongly. Understanding picture frame measurements will also help in making decisions regarding whether a pre-framed option would suit your needs or you need something special done.

Understanding Standard Picture Frame Sizes

This information can prove valuable in helping to reduce the choices that you have to make prior to purchasing a frame.

• For personal photos, the optimal size for a frame is approximately 10 × 15cm or 13 × 18cm.

• Artwork frames of 20 × 25 cm and 30 × 40 cm are very acceptable as frames for artwork and for certificates on the wall.

• You can also choose to buy big frames of 40 × 50 cm or even 50 × 70 cm, which allow you to accentuate a picture on a living room wall or in an office.

Do keep in mind that the dimensions of frames generally pertain to the dimensions of the artwork they hold, as opposed to the frame's outside dimensions.

How to Match Frames to Prints and Photographs

Choosing the right size of a frame will depend on the size of your picture and your choice to use a mount.

• Measuring the artwork: Take the exact measurements of the width and height of your artwork before getting a frame.

• Using a mount: The mount adds some breathing space around the image and also gives some weight to small prints.

• Determine the orientation: You must determine whether the frame accommodates either portrait or landscape presentation.

• Choose frames that have proportionate dimensions: Square photographs usually need square frames, while rectangular artworks may require frames of proportionate dimensions.

As an illustration, the 20×30 cm photograph, which is placed in the larger frame with the proper size of mount, can look more aesthetically pleasing than the same photograph inserted into a frame with little to no space around it.

Choosing the Right A0 and A1 Poster Frames

The size of large posters has to be carefully considered since even slight inaccuracy can influence the appearance of the finished product.

A0 Picture Frame Selection

A0 Picture Frame can be used to frame artwork that is 841 × 1189 mm in size. A large enough format can be helpful for large posters, architecture prints and artwork.

• The measurement of the poster, not an estimate based on its picture, should be taken into account.

• Available wall space should be considered prior to choosing a frame of such dimensions.

• It can be preferable to opt for light frames when possible.

Usefulness of A1 Frames

A1 Picture Frame can accommodate artwork that is 594 × 841 mm in size. This is a spacious format that does not take up much space in comparison with A0.

• A0 Poster Frames are good for oversized artwork and for large frames.

• A1 Poster Frames will be appropriate for promotional prints, educational posters and decorative illustrations.

• The information about the inclusion of glazing, backing and mounting hardware has to be known before buying a frame.

It depends on the size of the poster, available wall space and desired visual effect.

Choosing Between Ready-Made and Custom Framing

The ready-made frames may work well for the common sizes of prints; however, some paintings will require a more personalised approach. It all depends on the size, state, value, and presentation of the item.

• Select pre-made framing whenever your print fits the available frame size, and you are looking for a quick display.

• Turn to custom framing in case of odd dimensions, original art, sentimental objects, and prints that require certain mounting.

• Inquire about protective materials in case your photos, prints, or artworks require protection from light and moisture.

• Talk about hanging issues in case of large objects or art intended for a particular wall.

For instance, an old family photograph with faded edges can be presented better if mounted properly, but it should be done in a way that will not conceal necessary elements. Such a photo would not be presented appropriately in any standard frame.

When the object requires certain consideration, it can be good to discuss all possible options.

Conclusion: Make the Right Frame Choice

Choosing a frame will be much easier when you measure properly, get acquainted with all standard measurements and think about how your picture will look in relation to its surrounding space. Whether you have pictures that you love or big posters, getting the right Standard Picture Frame Sizes will make your picture look much better.

FAQs

Q1. How can I measure an artwork for framing?

Simply measure the width and height of the artwork from one side to another. If there will be a mount involved, please check the dimensions of the frame and mounting too.

Q2. Are there any differences between frame sizes and their outside dimensions?

Frame sizes usually refer to the size of artworks that the frame accommodates. Outside dimensions are bigger since the frame moulding is included in the measurement.

Q3. How large are A0 and A1 prints?

Dimensions for A0 are 841 × 1189 mm, whereas A1 is 594 × 841 mm. It’s important to check the size of your print before printing.

Q4. Should I mount my photograph?

Mounting a photograph is not obligatory. It allows creating a free space around the image and can help to improve the image presentation. However, it depends on your photograph, frame proportions, and preferred style.

Q5. Is it possible to frame posters without glass?

Yes. Some poster types can be framed without glazing. Glazing will protect the artwork from dust and handling. Moreover, there are some glazing options that filter UV light.

Need Help Choosing the Right Frame?

Off the Wall Framing is here to assist you in discovering different framing solutions for your photographs, prints, posters and artworks. If you do not know how to measure, mount or display certain works of art, professional advice is sure to help.

To contact Off the Wall Framing, call us on 02 9567 2422.