How to Measure a Photo Frame Like a Pro and Avoid Mistakes

Learn how to measure a photo frame like a pro and avoid common mistakes. Follow our simple UK guide to get the perfect fit for your prints, certificates, paintings, photos, or artwork every time.

Choosing the right photo frame doesn't need to be complex. Whether it's a valuable memory, an impressive piece of art, or a stylish new print, the key to a perfect display lies in accurate measurements. But how do you get it just right? This easy-to-follow guide will show you exactly how to measure a photo frame properly so your pictures always sit perfectly in place.

Tools Need for Measure a Photo Frame

Before diving into the details, it is essential to have the right tools to ensure accurate figures.

Here's a checklist:

Ruler or Tape Measure

To choose for one with millimeter markings for higher accuracy, as even minor errors can throw off your measurements.

Flat Surface

Use a plan board and even table to lay down your frame or artwork. This helps avoid any distortion when taking measurements.

Pencil and Paper

You need a paper and pencil for writing measurements.

Square or T-Square (optional )

If you're a perfectionist or working on professional framing, using a square tool ensures the corners of your frames are perfectly angled.

Digital Caliper (optional )

For those requiring extreme precision, especially with intricate frames or when accuracy is non-negotiable, a digital caliper enables measurement down to the tiniest details.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring a Frame

If you're measuring for a new frame or confirming the dimensions of an old one, each element of the frame needs attention. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Measure Frame Dimensions

Place the frame face-up on a flat surface. Use a tape or ruler measure to take the width and height from edge to edge. Measure both sides top to bottom and side to side frames are not always perfectly shaped. If you are not sure about the angles, a T-square can help make sure the corners are straight.

2. Measure Artwork or Photo to Be Framed

Lay your artwork or photo flat on a clean surface. Measure the full width and height. If the edges are rough or uneven, use the longest parts to get an accurate size. It’s worth measuring twice to avoid mistakes when choosing your frame.

3. Measure Matting Dimensions

If you’re adding a mount (also called a mat), decide how wide you want the border to be. Most are between 2.5 cm and 5 cm. Take this off your artwork size to see how much will be visible. The mount opening should slightly cover the edges of the artwork about 1–2 mm to keep it in place.

4. Depth and Backing

Look at how deep the frame is from the front edge to the back. This is important if you’re framing something thicker, like a canvas or layered mount. If you’re reusing a frame, check the backing board too. You might need to trim or replace it depending on the fit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with careful framing, measurements can go astray. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes and how you can direct clear of them: 

Overlooking Frame Rebate Space: The rebate is the lip that holds the artwork in place within the frame. Forgetting to factor in the rebate size (usually a few mm) can lead to tight fits or visible gaps.

Ignoring Mat Overlaps: Many DIY frames overlook the fact that the mat opening should slightly overlap the artwork. Without this, artwork may shift or leave uneven borders visible.

Uneven Measurements: Always measure multiple times to ensure consistency and accuracy. A few millimeters difference can alter the final appearance of your frame.

Not Considering Frame Depth: Particularly for projects involving mixed layers (such as canvases or matting), ignoring the depth of the frame can limit your options or cause damage.

How to Choose the Right Size for Artwork

Choosing the correct frame size can make all the difference in how your art is perceived. Begin by measuring the artwork. A popular method is to select a frame a little larger than the pieve so there’s space for a mount.

Consider where the artwork will be displayed. The frame should be appropriate for the size of the wall and the room. For open walls, that may mean larger frames or else a grouping of smaller ones that can lend a gallery effect to an otherwise expansive surface. Small frames are often better for tight spaces.

Then style and material matters as well. Those affect how well the frame contrasts with the artwork. We also provide a made-to-measure option for framing, so you can have a frame that fits your artwork and space perfectly and no need to compromise on size or style.

Advanced Tips and Considerations for Picture Frames

If you are serious about precision framing or tackling more challenging projects, In that case, these advanced tips may be helpful. When your frame includes a perspex insert, consider its thickness in your overall depth measurement. Thicker or tempered perspex is often used for professional-grade frames.

When you are ready to improve your home decor with perfectly framed art, gather your tools and follow our guide to experience the satisfaction of a perfectly modified frame. Share your framing success stories in the comment section, or reach out for more tips. Let's make your artwork shine with the perfect frame.

Standard Frame Size Chart

A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5 Picture Frame Size Guide with Measurements in Inches, Centimetres, and Millimetres.
Use this table to easily compare standard frame sizes in metric and imperial units for accurate photo or artwork framing.