8 × 10 artwork without a mat
Artwork: 8 × 10 in
Frame size to order: 8 × 10 in
With a 1-inch moulding: approximately 10 × 12 in outside
Frame Size Calculator
Enter your artwork size and mat preferences to estimate the required frame size.
How to Choose the Right Picture Frame Size
Start by measuring the artwork itself—not an existing frame. Record the width first, then the height. Measure to the nearest 1/16 inch when possible, or to the nearest millimetre when using centimetres. If the artwork is not perfectly square, measure in more than one place and use the largest dimension.
Do not include an unprinted paper border unless you want that border to remain visible. For photographs, posters, certificates, diplomas, and works on paper, the artwork dimensions determine the frame size.
How the Frame Size Calculator Works
Without a mat, the frame size to order generally matches the artwork dimensions. With a mat, the calculator first reduces the visible mat opening by the overlap entered, then adds the mat border to each side. This gives the outside dimensions of the mat and therefore the frame size to order.
The calculator also estimates the finished outside dimensions by adding the moulding width to both sides. These outside dimensions are approximate because moulding profiles and construction can vary.
Frame Size Examples
8.5 × 11 certificate with a mat
Artwork: 8.5 × 11 in
Mat opening: 8.25 × 10.75 in with 1/8-inch overlap per side
Common frame choice: 11 × 14 in
Standard Picture Frame Sizes
| Artwork size | Common frame size | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 4 × 6 in | 4 × 6 in | Small photographs |
| 5 × 7 in | 5 × 7 in | Portraits and snapshots |
| 8 × 10 in | 8 × 10 in | Photography and artwork |
| 8.5 × 11 in | 11 × 14 in with mat | Certificates and documents |
| 11 × 14 in | 11 × 14 in | Prints and photography |
| 12 × 16 in | 12 × 16 in | Art prints |
| 16 × 20 in | 16 × 20 in | Large portraits and art |
| 18 × 24 in | 18 × 24 in | Posters and prints |
| 20 × 30 in | 20 × 30 in | Photography and posters |
| 24 × 36 in | 24 × 36 in | Large posters |
Common Metric and ISO Paper Sizes
| Paper size | Dimensions | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 21 × 29.7 cm | Certificates, documents, and prints |
| A3 | 29.7 × 42 cm | Posters and art prints |
| A2 | 42 × 59.4 cm | Large art prints and posters |
| A1 | 59.4 × 84.1 cm | Large-format posters |
Understanding Mat Size and Overlap
A mat creates visual space between the artwork and the frame. For many small and medium pieces, a border of approximately 2 to 3 inches provides a balanced appearance. Larger pieces often benefit from wider mats.
The mat opening is normally cut slightly smaller than the artwork so the mat overlaps the edges and holds the piece securely. A common overlap is 1/8 inch per side, creating an opening 1/4 inch smaller overall in both width and height.
Frame moulding
Mat border
Artwork / mat opening
Standard Frame or Custom Frame?
A standard frame works well when the artwork matches a commonly available size. A custom picture frame is usually the better choice for fractional dimensions, unusual proportions, oversized work, special glazing, deep objects, or a specific moulding-and-mat combination.
Custom Frames Canada offers made-to-measure framing for prints, posters, photographs, certificates, diplomas, canvas, and oversized artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size frame do I need for my artwork?
Measure the exact width and height of the artwork. Without a mat, the frame size generally matches the artwork. With a mat, the frame size equals the outside dimensions of the mat.
Should the frame be larger than the artwork?
The outside of the finished frame will be larger because of the moulding. The frame size to order may match the artwork or may be larger when a mat is used.
How do I measure artwork for a picture frame?
Place the artwork on a flat surface, measure width first and height second, and record the largest measurement if the piece is not perfectly square.
What size frame fits an 8.5 × 11 certificate?
An 8.5 × 11-inch certificate can be framed directly, or placed in an 11 × 14-inch frame with a mat for a more traditional presentation.
How much should a mat overlap the artwork?
A common overlap is about 1/8 inch on each side, making the mat opening approximately 1/4 inch smaller overall than the artwork.
What frame size fits an 11 × 17 poster?
An 11 × 17-inch poster can be placed in an 11 × 17-inch custom frame without a mat. With a mat, a larger frame such as 16 × 20 inches may work depending on the mat border.
What is the difference between frame size and outside dimensions?
The frame size is the interior size that accommodates the artwork or outside of the mat. Outside dimensions include the full moulding around the frame.
Can I frame artwork with fractional measurements?
Yes. Fractional and unusual dimensions are common reasons to order a custom frame. Measure accurately and enter the decimal equivalent into the calculator.
Reviewed by Custom Frames Canada
This guide is based on professional custom-framing measurement and ordering practices. Always confirm final dimensions before ordering, especially for valuable, irreplaceable, or unusually shaped artwork.
Last reviewed: July 2026