About Our Standard Picture Frame Mat Openings
Our picture frames are indexed by artwork size. Artwork size is the actual size of the photograph, inkjet, or other print being framed. The opening in our standard sized mats (that appear in the size drop-down selector) is cut slightly smaller than the artwork, which allows the mat to hold the artwork down.
Artwork 4" x 6" to 18" x 24"
We cut the exact mat opening 1/4" smaller for artwork 4" x 6" to 18" x 24".
Example: The exact mat opening size for an 8" x 10" image is 7 3/4" x 9 3/4".
The mat overlaps the artwork 1/8" on all four sides.
Artwork larger than 18" x 24"
We cut the exact mat opening 1/2" smaller for artwork larger than 18" x 24".
Example: The exact mat opening size for a 20" x 24" image is 19 1/2" x 23 1/2".
The mat overlaps the artwork 1/4" on all four sides.
About Our Custom Mat Openings
If you require a custom mat opening size to fit non-standard sized artwork, or to leave room for a signature border, we can accommodate you. Select the first choice, "CUSTOM", from the Size pull-down menu and enter the exact dimensions needed for your mat opening. Be aware that we cut a custom mat opening EXACTLY the dimensions that you give us. As a rule of thumb, mat opening sizes are never the same dimension as the artwork. They are normally smaller, unless you are leaving room for a signature beneath the image.