Ever bought a picture frame online, only to find your prized print doesn't quite fit? We've all been there! Accurately measuring a picture frame is crucial, whether you're replacing the glass, ordering a custom mat, or ensuring your artwork fits perfectly. A well-measured frame showcases your photos and art beautifully, preventing frustrating errors and costly returns. Getting it right the first time saves you time, money, and the disappointment of a mismatched display.
Knowing how to measure a picture frame correctly is a fundamental skill for anyone who appreciates art and photography. It prevents damage to your artwork, ensures a professional presentation, and opens up a world of framing possibilities. From understanding the difference between inside and outside dimensions to accounting for rabbet depth, each measurement plays a critical role in creating a visually appealing and secure display.
What are the common mistakes and how can I avoid them?
How do I measure the inside of a picture frame for artwork?
To accurately measure the inside of a picture frame for artwork, measure the opening at the back of the frame, from inside edge to inside edge, both horizontally and vertically. These measurements represent the maximum artwork size that will fit within the frame's rabbet (the recessed area where the artwork sits).
When measuring, use a precise measuring tool like a steel ruler or a measuring tape, and read the measurements carefully. It's best to measure in millimeters or 1/8 inch increments for accuracy. Keep in mind that the artwork needs to be slightly larger than the visible area you want to display, as the frame's rabbet will overlap the edges. This overlap is crucial to hold the artwork securely in place and is typically between 1/4 and 1/2 inch on each side. So, the visible portion of your artwork will be slightly smaller than the inside measurement you take.
Double-check your measurements before cutting or ordering any artwork or mats. Measuring twice (or even three times) and cutting once is a wise adage to follow to avoid costly mistakes. If you are using a mat, remember to calculate the mat opening size based on your desired visible artwork dimensions, ensuring it fits appropriately within the frame's inner dimensions.
What's the best way to measure a frame for a replacement picture?
The best way to measure a frame for a replacement picture is to measure the inside dimensions of the frame, where the picture will sit. Measure both the height and width from the inside edges. This provides the exact size your new picture needs to be to fit properly within the frame.
When measuring, precision is key. Use a ruler or measuring tape that displays measurements in millimeters or 1/16 inch increments for the most accurate result. Measure the height and width at several points along the inside edges of the frame. Frames can sometimes be slightly warped or irregular, so taking multiple measurements and using the smallest dimension you find will help ensure your new picture isn't too big to fit. Remember to measure the *inside* of the frame, *not* the outside dimensions. The outside dimensions are irrelevant for determining the size of the picture you need. The rabbet, the recessed area where the picture sits, is what dictates the correct size. If you are ordering a custom-sized picture, specify that these are the "exact" dimensions needed, and clarify if you want any slight adjustments for ease of fitting (some framers suggest subtracting 1/16" for a very snug fit).Should I measure the rabbet depth of a picture frame?
Yes, absolutely. Measuring the rabbet depth is crucial to ensure your artwork, backing board, and glazing fit securely within the frame. If the rabbet is too shallow, the contents will protrude, and if it's too deep, they may rattle or shift around.
Ensuring you have sufficient rabbet depth avoids frustrating problems. Imagine carefully assembling your framed piece only to discover the backing board won't sit flush, or worse, that the entire assembly bows outwards because it's overstuffed. This not only looks unprofessional but can also damage your artwork over time. Accurate measurement allows you to select the correct thickness of materials or to make necessary adjustments before committing to the final assembly. When measuring, use a reliable ruler or, ideally, a digital caliper for greater precision. The rabbet depth is the distance from the inside edge of the frame to the back of the rabbet – the ledge that holds your artwork. Measure at several points along the rabbet to account for any slight variations. If your materials exceed the rabbet depth, consider using thinner materials or having a framer adjust the frame.How do I determine the correct frame size for a matted photo?
To determine the correct frame size for a matted photo, you need to measure the outside dimensions of the mat, not the photo itself. The frame size should precisely match these outside mat dimensions so the mat fits snugly within the frame.
When framing a matted photo, remember that the visible photo area is smaller than the photo's actual size. The mat partially covers the edges of the picture, which is why the photo needs to be larger than the opening in the mat. The outside dimensions of the mat are what determine the frame size. For example, if your mat measures 11x14 inches on the outside, you will need an 11x14 inch frame. It's crucial to be accurate when measuring the mat. Use a ruler or measuring tape to get precise measurements of both the width and the height. Round up to the nearest standard frame size if your measurement is slightly in between sizes. Finally, always double-check your measurements before ordering a frame. This ensures a perfect fit and prevents the frustration of receiving a frame that doesn't accommodate your matted photo.What units (inches, cm) are best when measuring picture frames?
While both inches and centimeters can be used to measure picture frames, inches are generally preferred in the United States, while centimeters are more common in countries using the metric system. Ultimately, the "best" unit depends on your location, the units used by the frame supplier, and your personal preference, as long as you remain consistent.
In the United States, picture frame sizes are almost universally expressed in inches. This is due to the prevalence of the imperial system in the country. When ordering frames online or purchasing them from a local store, you'll typically find dimensions listed in inches. Using inches ensures compatibility and avoids potential conversion errors. For example, a standard 8x10 inch frame is readily available, and specifying a size in centimeters would require conversion and might not match available frame sizes as precisely.
However, in countries that primarily use the metric system, such as those in Europe, Asia, and South America, centimeters are the standard unit for measuring picture frames. Suppliers and framers will typically work with metric measurements. Furthermore, many digital art programs will have default measurements in centimeters, especially in European countries. Using the local unit can make the framing process smoother and more efficient. Consistency is the key; whether you prefer inches or centimeters, ensure that all measurements relating to your picture frame are using the same scale to prevent costly mistakes.
How do I measure an oddly shaped (oval, round) picture frame?
Measuring an oval or round picture frame accurately requires a slightly different approach than measuring a rectangular frame. Instead of simple length and width, you'll need to determine the maximum height and maximum width of the opening where the picture will sit. These two measurements will serve as your frame's dimensions.
For an oval frame, find the longest vertical distance across the opening – this is your height. Then, find the longest horizontal distance across the opening – this is your width. These are the key measurements to use when ordering a replacement backing board or a new piece of artwork. Be precise; use a flexible measuring tape if necessary to conform to any slight curves. Remember, you're measuring the visible area, not the overall external dimensions of the frame itself.
Measuring a circular frame is similar, but much simpler. Since a circle has uniform dimensions across its diameter, you only need to measure the diameter of the opening across its widest point. This single measurement represents both the "height" and "width" for ordering purposes. Again, ensure you're measuring the inside of the frame, where the artwork will be visible, and not the overall outside diameter of the frame itself.
Where do I measure from to get the outside dimensions of a frame?
To get the outside dimensions of a frame, measure from the outermost points of one side to the outermost points of the opposite side, both horizontally and vertically. This includes the entire width and height of the frame's molding.
Think of it this way: you're measuring the maximum space the entire frame will occupy on a wall. Don't just measure the visible portion of the frame, or the opening for the artwork. You need to include the full width of the frame's material, including any decorative elements that extend beyond the frame's edges. Accurate outside dimensions are crucial when you are planning where to hang the frame, ensuring it fits in the intended space, or when ordering a custom frame to fit within a specific area.
Carefully use a ruler or measuring tape, making sure it's straight and aligned along the outermost edges. It's often helpful to lay the frame flat on a surface to get a more accurate measurement. Repeat each measurement a couple of times to ensure consistency and account for any slight variations in the frame's construction. These outer dimensions are essential for considerations such as shipping, storage, and installation within a specific area.
And that's all there is to it! Measuring for a picture frame might seem daunting at first, but with these simple steps, you'll be framing like a pro in no time. Thanks so much for reading, and we hope this helped you get the perfect fit. Feel free to pop back anytime you need a little framing inspiration or advice, we're always happy to help!