Choosing the right photo frame enhances your picture and complements your space. However, understanding frame sizes can be confusing. This guide clarifies how to accurately measure for a photo frame, ensuring your artwork fits perfectly and looks its best once framed. Getting it right from the start avoids frustration and guarantees a professional finish for your cherished photos or art pieces.
Understanding Frame Dimensions: Internal vs. External
When shopping for picture frames, you’ll encounter two key measurements: internal and external. It’s crucial to understand the difference to select the correct size for your needs.
- Internal Dimensions: These measurements refer to the size of the opening at the back of the frame, where your artwork and glazing are inserted. Frame sizes are typically described by their internal dimensions, as they dictate the size of the picture the frame is designed to hold. For example, a “8×10 inch” frame means it’s designed for an 8×10 inch photo.
- External Dimensions: These measurements describe the overall size of the frame, including the frame’s border or molding. External dimensions are important if you plan to place the frame in a specific space, such as a recess in a wall or as part of a gallery wall arrangement.
Key Measurement Considerations for Photo Frames
Accurately measuring for a photo frame involves more than just the size of your picture. Several factors influence the final frame dimensions you’ll need.
Visible Area and Frame Rebate: Why Some of Your Picture is Hidden
Picture frames are designed with a “rebate,” a lip on the inside edge that holds the picture, glazing, and backing board securely in place. This rebate means that the very edges of your artwork will be slightly hidden from view, typically by 2-5mm on each edge. This overlap is essential to prevent your picture and glazing from falling out of the front of the frame.
If seeing the absolute entirety of your image is critical, consider a clip frame (frameless frame). However, for traditional frames, this slight overlap is standard and contributes to the frame’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Mount Overlap: Ensuring Your Picture Stays in Place
If you decide to use a picture mount (mat) with your frame, this adds another layer of measurement consideration. A mount not only enhances the presentation of your artwork but also provides space between the picture and the glazing.
When you order a mount, the opening is cut slightly smaller than your artwork. Typically, a mount will overlap your picture by at least 3mm on each edge. This overlap is crucial for:
- Preventing slippage: It holds your picture securely behind the mount, stopping it from falling through the opening.
- Easy securing: It provides an area to attach your artwork to the back of the mount using framing tape or similar, preventing it from shifting over time.
When ordering a mount separately, suppliers usually automatically deduct this overlap from the dimensions you provide for your artwork to create the mount opening size.
External Frame Size: Fitting Frames into Specific Spaces
For certain display scenarios, the external dimensions of the frame become paramount. This is especially true when:
- Fitting into a recess: If you intend to place your framed picture into a pre-existing opening or niche in a wall, you must ensure the frame’s external dimensions are smaller than or equal to the recess size.
- Creating a gallery wall: When planning a gallery wall, knowing the external dimensions of each frame helps you arrange them effectively and visualize the overall layout on your wall space.
In these cases, carefully check the product specifications for external frame dimensions or contact the frame supplier for this information before ordering.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Artwork for a Photo Frame
To ensure you order the correct frame size, follow these simple steps to measure your artwork accurately:
- Use the Right Tools: You’ll need a ruler or tape measure. For best accuracy, use a metal ruler, but a flexible tape measure will also work.
- Measure the Width: Place the ruler horizontally across the widest part of your artwork. Measure from edge to edge, ensuring you are measuring in a straight line. Note down this measurement.
- Measure the Height: Place the ruler vertically along the side of your artwork, from top to bottom. Measure in a straight line and note down this measurement.
- Record Your Measurements: Write down the width and height measurements in inches or centimeters, depending on the units used by the frame supplier. It’s best to be precise, measuring to the nearest millimeter or 1/8 of an inch.
These width and height measurements are the internal frame dimensions you’ll need to order.
Trimming Your Picture: When and How (With Caution)
Ideally, you should choose a frame that fits your picture without needing to trim it. However, in some cases, you might need to slightly trim your picture to fit a specific frame size.
Only trim your picture if it is replaceable or not of significant value. Never trim original artwork, limited edition prints, or irreplaceable sentimental photographs.
If trimming is necessary and appropriate, follow these guidelines:
- Use the Right Tools: For small prints, a good quality paper cutter is ideal for straight, clean cuts. For larger pieces, a Stanley knife (utility knife) and a metal ruler provide more control.
- Cut Carefully and Straight: Always cut along a straight line. Use the ruler as a guide for your knife or paper cutter. Avoid using scissors, as they are more likely to create uneven or wavy edges.
- Trim Conservatively: Trim only as much as absolutely necessary. It’s better to trim too little and re-trim than to cut off too much.
Trimming should always be a last resort. Taking accurate measurements and choosing the correct frame size initially is always the best approach.
Conclusion: Framing Confidence Starts with Accurate Measurement
Measuring for a photo frame might seem straightforward, but understanding the nuances of internal vs. external dimensions, rebate, and mount overlap is essential for achieving professional-looking results. By following this guide, you can confidently measure your artwork and select the perfect photo frame, ensuring your pictures are beautifully displayed and protected for years to come. Take your time, measure accurately, and enjoy the process of framing your cherished memories and artwork.
