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How to Measure for a Custom Picture Frame

How to Measure for a Custom Picture Frame

Good measurements make good frames. If you measure wrong, your frame won't fit. Follow these easy steps and your frame will fit just right.

Two Sizes You Need to Know

There are two sizes in framing. They are different. Here is what each one means:

Image Size (Glass Size): This is the size of your artwork or photo. It is also the size of the glass or acrylic that covers your piece.

Frame Size: This is the outside size of the whole frame. The frame size is always bigger than the image size because the frame goes around the edges.

How to Measure Your Artwork

Step 1: Get the Right Tools

You will need:

  • A metal ruler or measuring tape
  • A flat, hard surface
  • Good lighting

Step 2: Measure Width and Height

  1. Lay your artwork flat on a hard surface
  2. Measure the width from the left side to the right side
  3. Measure the height from the top to the bottom
  4. Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch

Tip: Measure twice. Even a small mistake can make the frame too big or too small.

Step 3: Write It Down

Write your numbers as Width x Height. For example, if your photo is 8 inches wide and 10 inches tall, write it as 8" x 10".

Measuring for Mat Board

If you want to add a mat board, the mat opening needs to be a little smaller than your artwork:

  1. Measure your artwork like the steps above
  2. Make the mat opening 1/4" smaller on each side
  3. This lets the mat overlap the edges and hold the artwork in place

For example, for an 8" x 10" photo:

  • Mat opening: 7.5" x 9.5"
  • The mat covers 1/4" on all four sides

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Measuring the Old Frame

If you are replacing a frame, measure the artwork, not the old frame. Old frames come in different sizes. The artwork size is what matters.

Mistake #2: Rounding Your Numbers

Use exact numbers. Rounding 8.25" down to 8" seems small, but it can make your artwork not fit.

Mistake #3: Mixing Up Width and Height

Width always comes first. An 8" x 10" frame is 8 inches wide and 10 inches tall. That is portrait (tall) shape.

Mistake #4: Forgetting About Thickness

If you are framing something thick, like a jersey or keepsake, measure how deep it is too. You will need a shadowbox frame with enough room inside.

Tips for Odd Sizes

Round or Oval Artwork

For round, oval, or odd shapes:

  1. Measure the widest part from side to side
  2. Measure the tallest part from top to bottom
  3. Use these numbers to figure out what frame size you need

Bent or Warped Items

If your artwork is bent or warped:

  1. Press it flat gently on a hard surface
  2. Measure it as if it were flat
  3. Tell us about the warping when you order
  4. We can help flatten it with proper mounting

Large Artwork

For big pieces over 24" x 36":

  1. Use a long measuring tape
  2. Ask someone to help hold the artwork flat
  3. Start measuring from one corner
  4. Check all your numbers twice

Standard Sizes vs. Custom Sizes

Check our frame size chart to see if your artwork fits a standard size. Standard sizes often cost less:

Common Standard Sizes:

  • 5" x 7"
  • 8" x 10"
  • 11" x 14"
  • 16" x 20"
  • 18" x 24"

If your artwork is within 1/4" of a standard size, you might be able to trim it to fit. This can save you money.

Quick Checklist

Before you order:

  • Measure width and height to the nearest 1/8"
  • Write it as Width x Height
  • Measure the artwork, not an old frame
  • If using a mat, make the opening 1/4" smaller on each side
  • Check if a standard size works
  • Note anything special (thick items, bent artwork, odd shapes)

Ready to Build Your Frame?

Got your measurements? Use our frame designer to type in your sizes and start building your frame. The price updates as you pick your options.

Not sure about your measurements? Contact us at hello@custompictureframes.com or call 1 (800) 916-8770. We are happy to help.