Standard Frame Sizes Guide: Find the Right Picture Frame Size
Choose the best frame sizes for photos and art. Compare standard picture frame sizes for any space. Get tips for perfect photo frame size selection.
Creating a stylish display of photos and artwork starts with understanding standard frame sizes.
If you’re decorating your home, setting up an office, or planning a special gift, knowing the right frame sizes will help you achieve a polished, professional look without unnecessary expense or frustration. Our guide will help you understand all the details to get the best frames for your house.
Understanding Standard Frame Sizes
Standard Glass photo prints in the United States typically follow specific dimensions that accommodate common photo and art print measurements. These standardized options make finding frames more convenient and economical compared to custom framing.
The most common standard frame sizes include:
Rectangle Prints:
- Extra Small: 4.8″ x 6.4″
- Small: 7.2″ x 9.6″
- Medium: 10.8″ x 14.4″
- Large: 15.6″ x 20.8″
- Extra Large: 21.6″ x 28.8″
Square Prints:
- Small: 5″ x 5″
- Medium: 11″ x 11″
- Large: 23″ x 23″
- When shopping for frames, remember that the size listed typically refers to the inner dimensions—the opening that holds your photo—not the outer dimensions of the frame itself.
Small Frame Sizes Explained
4×6 Inches: The Universal Standard
This is perhaps the most common photo size, perfect for:
- Casual snapshots
- Family photos
- Vacation pictures
- Small desk displays or shelves
- Creating gallery walls with multiple small images
4×6 frames work wonderfully for everyday photos and fit perfectly on bedside tables, desks, or bookshelves. They’re also ideal for gallery wall arrangements when you want to display several images together.
5×5 Inches: The Social Media Square
The 5×5 frame has gained tremendous popularity with the rise of Instagram and other social media platforms. These frames are perfect for:
- Instagram photos (without cropping)
- Creating uniform gallery displays
- Modern, minimalist aesthetics
- Small spaces where standard rectangular frames might look awkward
Square frames bring balance to displays and work wonderfully in grid-style gallery walls like the sleek Dionne Grid.
Specialized Frame Sizes for Unique Displays
Square Formats
Square frames have grown in popularity with social media photography:
- 5×5 inches (13×13 cm)
- 8×8 inches (20×20 cm)
- 10×10 inches (25×25 cm)
- 12×12 inches (30×30 cm)
Square formats create balance and work beautifully in grid arrangements like Fracture’s Cher Grid.
How Much Bigger Should a Frame Be Than the Content?
When framing posters or artwork without a mat, the frame’s inner dimensions should match your content’s dimensions exactly. However, when using mats, follow these guidelines:
- For a standard mat border: Choose a frame 4-6 inches larger than your content (2-3 inches of mat showing on each side)
- For a dramatic presentation: Choose a frame 8-10 inches larger than your content (4-5 inches of mat showing on each side)
- For a minimal look: Choose a frame 2-4 inches larger than your content (1-2 inches of mat showing on each side)
For frameless options that eliminate these considerations entirely, glass prints offer a sleek alternative with sets like the Pacific Northwest Black and White Set or Leaf and Stem Set.
Ready-Made Art Collections for Instant Gallery Walls
For those who want a coordinated look without the curation process, consider pre-selected gallery sets:
- Pacific Northwest Black and White Set – Moody landscape photography
- Leaf and Stem Set – Botanical illustrations
- Teal Tides Triptych – Ocean-inspired abstract art
- Forged Crossing Set – Contemporary geometric designs
- Animals in Glasses Set – Whimsical animal portraits
- Cuddly Animals Set – Charming wildlife illustrations
These collections take the guesswork out of creating a cohesive gallery wall with properly sized pieces that work harmoniously together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine what size frame I need for an odd-sized print?
For odd-sized prints, measure your image and either:
- Find the next largest standard frame size and use a custom-cut mat
- Order a custom frame that matches your exact dimensions
- Trim your print to fit a standard frame (if the image allows)
What’s the difference between frame size and print size?
Frame size refers to the inner dimensions of the frame that holds your print. Print size is the actual dimensions of your photo or artwork. When purchasing frames, the listed size should match your print size for a perfect fit.
How do I choose between different frame sizes for my wall?
Consider the wall space available and the visual impact you want to create. Larger frames (11×14, 16×20) make bold statements, while smaller frames work well in groups. For gallery walls, mix different sizes for visual interest. The frame should typically be proportional to the wall space-about 2/3 the width of furniture below it.
What size frame do I need if I want to use a mat?
If using a mat, choose a frame larger than your print. For a standard mat border (about 2 inches), add 4 inches to both dimensions of your print. For example, a 5×7 print with a 2-inch mat border would need a 9×11 frame.
Conclusion
Choosing the right frame sizes for your photos and artwork significantly impacts how they display in your home or office. Whether you opt for traditional frames in standard dimensions or explore modern alternatives like Fracture’s glass print gallery walls, understanding the relationship between image size, frame dimensions, and display location ensures your memories and art are showcased beautifully.
For a hassle-free approach to creating stunning wall displays without worrying about frame dimensions, consider Fracture’s gallery wall collections. These ready-to-hang glass print sets eliminate guesswork and deliver vibrant, contemporary displays that enhance any space.
