All of our frames are measured by the inside dimensions. For example, if you have a 4x6 image, you will want to order a 4x6 frame.
A frame's dimensions refer to the size of its opening. It is a common mistake to think that the dimensions are the width and height of the frame's outside edges; however, the actual measurement is based off of the inside edge. For example, if you have a 4x6 image, the correct frame option is a 4x6 frame, regardless of the frame's outside-to-outside edge.
Be aware that some frame styles will overlap the edges of an image more than others. You can reference the molding profile drawings on our wood frame and metal frame pages for more details.
With the exception to the Shadowbox Frame Series, frames will provide up to a 1/8" tolerance on each side to accommodate materials being inserted.
Measuring a Picture Frame With a Mat
In the example to the left, the photograph is not one of our standard sizes. There are two options to choose from if you too have this problem. You can order a custom size frame, or order a larger standard size frame with a mat cut to make up the difference.
When deciding on mat measurements, the opening size should be slightly smaller than the image size in order to ensure that your image sits nicely below the mat. Determining how wide of a mat you will need to fit into a standard size frame depends on the photograph size. For instance, adding two inches all the way around in our example to the left makes the outside mat size 9x12. Now, the outer mat size is the size of a readymade frame.
To cut out the guesswork that can come with measuring your mat size, you can place an order on our website instead. Don't worry about doing the math to determine the opening size, just go ahead and enter in your image size and how wide you would like the mat to be and we'll do the rest! For more information about our mat selection or to get started designing, check out our custom shop
