Ever bought a gorgeous piece of art, only to find yourself staring blankly at a wall of frames, unsure which one will actually fit? Measuring for a picture frame might seem straightforward, but getting it wrong can lead to wasted money, damaged artwork, and a whole lot of frustration. A perfectly sized frame not only protects your precious memories and artistic creations but also enhances their visual appeal, creating a polished and professional display that complements your space.
Whether you're framing a family photo, a beloved painting, or a cherished certificate, accuracy is key. Understanding the different measurements involved – from inner dimensions to outer dimensions, and even mat openings – is crucial for achieving that perfect fit. Knowing these details upfront will save you time, prevent costly mistakes, and ensure your artwork is showcased in the best possible way.
What size frame do I *really* need?
How do I measure a picture frame to fit my artwork?
To determine the correct picture frame size, measure the height and width of your artwork precisely. The frame's inside dimensions (the rabbet size) should match these measurements exactly to ensure your artwork fits snugly without being too tight or too loose.
Accurate measurement is critical. Use a ruler or measuring tape, and measure to the nearest 1/16th of an inch or millimeter, especially if you're dealing with a valuable or delicate piece. Measure horizontally for the width and vertically for the height. Consider measuring in multiple spots across the artwork, especially if it's on a flexible material like paper, as slight variations can occur. Use the largest measurement you find for both height and width when ordering or selecting your frame. Keep in mind that the visible portion of your artwork will be slightly smaller than the rabbet size due to the frame overlapping the edges. This overlap, called the rabbet overlap, is typically around 1/4 inch on each side. This overlap secures the artwork within the frame and is already factored into standard frame dimensions, so don't subtract from your artwork's measurements. Simply provide the artwork's exact height and width to the framer or when ordering a frame, and they will account for the rabbet overlap.Should I measure the inside or outside of the frame?
You should measure the *inside* of the frame (the rabbet) to determine the size of artwork or photo it will hold. This is the area where your picture will actually sit.
When measuring for a new piece of art or photo to fit an existing frame, the critical dimension is the inside measurement. This measurement, also called the rabbet size, indicates the largest size of artwork that will comfortably fit within the frame. Measuring the outside of the frame is useful for other purposes, such as determining how much wall space the framed piece will occupy, or if you're trying to match the overall aesthetic of a set of frames. However, the outside dimensions are irrelevant when determining if your art fits. To get an accurate inside measurement, use a ruler or measuring tape and measure the width and height from inside edge to inside edge. Be precise; even a slight difference can cause your picture to be too large to fit or too small and prone to slipping. Consider the thickness of any backing board or matting you plan to use, as this will slightly reduce the visible area of your artwork. Always measure twice to be sure!How do I measure an oddly shaped picture frame?
Measuring an oddly shaped picture frame accurately requires determining the maximum horizontal and vertical dimensions of the area intended to hold the picture. Imagine a rectangle that perfectly encompasses the opening of your frame, and measure the length and width of that imaginary rectangle. These measurements represent the size of the picture you'll need.
While the simple rectangular approach works for ordering the print or artwork, you might need more detailed measurements if you're cutting a mat board or creating a custom insert. In these cases, carefully measure the distance from each of the frame's edges to the corresponding edge of the opening. This will allow you to account for any variations or irregularities in the frame's shape.
For truly irregular shapes, consider creating a template. Lay the frame face-down on a large piece of paper (like butcher paper or craft paper). Carefully trace the *inside* edge of the frame's opening. This template can then be used to accurately cut a mat or backing board to perfectly fit the shape. Remember to add a small amount of tolerance (1/16" or less) to prevent the insert from being too tight.
What's the best way to measure frame depth or width?
The best way to measure frame depth or width is to use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance from the front edge of the frame to the back edge (for depth) or across the face of the frame (for width). Ensure you are measuring the actual physical dimensions of the frame itself, and not just estimating or relying on any manufacturer's specifications, as these can sometimes be inaccurate.
When measuring depth, you're typically trying to determine how much space the frame will occupy when hanging on a wall or if it can accommodate a thick canvas or object. Place the ruler perpendicular to the back of the frame and measure to the outermost part of the front. For frame width, particularly if the frame has a complex shape, measure at several points across the face of the frame to ensure consistent width. Note the widest point if there are variations.
Accuracy is important, so use a ruler or tape measure with clear markings and try to measure to the nearest millimeter or 1/16th of an inch. Also, be consistent with where you are measuring *from*. If you're trying to determine if artwork will fit, measure the visible depth from the rabbet (the recessed area that holds the art) to the glass, if any. Consider any potential obstructions or overlaps when measuring, as these might affect the final dimensions and how your artwork will fit within the frame.
And that's all there is to it! Measuring for a picture frame might seem daunting at first, but with these tips, you'll be framing like a pro in no time. Thanks for reading, and we hope this helped you find the perfect fit for your cherished memories. Come back and visit us again soon for more helpful tips and tricks!