How to Measure Your Artwork for a Custom Frame

Custom frames are cut to the measurements you provide. If those numbers are off, the frame won't fit, and since every frame is made to order, getting it right the first time matters. The process is straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that catch people. Here's how to avoid them.

Two Numbers That Matter

When you order a frame, you're entering the size of your artwork, not the size of the frame itself. The frame's outer dimensions will be larger because the moulding adds width on all sides. So if your print is 16×20, you enter 16×20. The designer calculates the rest based on the moulding you choose and whether you add matting.

Measuring Flat Artwork (Prints, Photos, Posters)

Lay the piece flat on a hard surface. Use a rigid ruler or metal tape measure: fabric tape stretches and gives inaccurate readings. Measure the width (left edge to right edge) and the height (top edge to bottom edge) in inches, to the nearest 1/8 inch. Write it down as width × height. So an 8-inch-wide, 10-inch-tall photo is 8×10. Measure twice. A quarter-inch error doesn't sound like much, but it's the difference between a frame that fits and one that doesn't.

If You're Adding Matting

You don't need to calculate mat openings yourself. Enter your artwork's actual dimensions in the designer and it handles the overlap automatically. The mat window will be cut slightly smaller than your artwork (about 1/4 inch on each side) so the mat overlaps the edges and holds the piece in place. Just measure your artwork and choose your mat border width. The designer does the math.

The Three Mistakes People Make

Measuring the old frame instead of the artwork. If you're replacing an existing frame, pull the artwork out and measure the piece itself. Different frames have different moulding widths, so the old frame's dimensions won't match what you need.

Rounding down. 8.25 inches is not 8 inches. Our frames are cut to 1/8-inch precision, so use the exact number. The designer accepts decimals and fractions.

Forgetting depth on 3D items. For shadowbox displays (jerseys, memorabilia, coins, collectibles), you also need the depth of the item being framed. Measure how far the object sticks out from flat, then choose a frame with enough interior depth to hold it without pressing against the glazing.

Measuring Odd-Shaped or Oversized Pieces

For non-rectangular pieces (oval, circular, irregular), measure the widest horizontal point and the tallest vertical point. The frame will be rectangular but the mat opening can be cut to a custom shape. For warped or curled artwork, press it flat gently and measure as if it were lying perfectly flat. Note the warping when you order. Mounting can flatten most pieces during assembly. For anything larger than 24×36, use a long tape measure and have someone hold the opposite end. Measure from corner to corner and double-check.

Before You Order

Confirm your width and height are measured to the nearest 1/8 inch. Make sure you measured the artwork, not a previous frame. If framing a 3D item, note the thickness. Enter dimensions as width × height in the designer. The preview will show you exactly how the finished frame will look before you commit.

If you're not sure about your measurements, email us at hello@shadowboxframes.com or call 1 (888) 874-7156. We'd rather help you get it right before you order than fix it after.