🎨 Matte Size For paint coverage

Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Matte

Matting Transforms Good Framing Into Great Framing

You have a beautiful photograph or artwork. You buy a frame. You want matting—that decorative cardboard border surrounding your piece—but suddenly you’re overwhelmed by sizes and options.

What size mat do I need? How much space should surround the photo? Should the mat be standard-sized or custom? What’s the difference between a window mat and a mat board?

Choosing the right mat size transforms your framing from adequate to genuinely beautiful. Wrong mat sizes make even gorgeous artwork look awkward. The right mat sizes elevate everything.

Here’s everything you need to know about photo and print mat sizes: standard dimensions, how to choose, benefits of matting, and practical solutions for every situation.

Understanding Mat Sizes: The Basics

What Is a Mat?

A mat is a piece of acid-free cardboard (typically) with a centered window cut out. Your artwork or photo sits behind the mat window. The mat creates a border between your artwork and frame, serving aesthetic and protective purposes.

Mat Components:

• Overall size: Full dimensions of the mat board
• Window opening: The cutout where the artwork shows through
• Mat border (or mat width): Space between window edge and mat board edge

Example: A 16×20-inch overall mat with an 8×10-inch window opening has borders of varying widths depending on how it’s cut.

Standard Mat Sizes

Most framers and art supply stores stock these standard mat sizes:

Small Mats:

• 5×7 inches (with 3×5 window)
• 8×10 inches (with 5×7 window)

Medium Mats:

• 11×14 inches (with 8×10 window)
• 16×20 inches (with 11×14 window)
• 18×24 inches (with 13×19 window)

Large Mats:

• 20×24 inches (with 16×20 window)
• 22×28 inches (with 18×24 window)
• 24×36 inches (with 20×32 window)

Double-Mat Options:

Two mats layered create an elegant double-matted look. Common combinations:

• 8×10 outer / 5×7 inner (creates colored frame effect)
• 16×20 outer / 11×14 inner
• 22×28 outer / 18×24 inner

Choosing the Right Mat Size for Your Artwork

Key Principle: The Rule of Thirds

Professional framers typically follow the rule of thirds: create borders where the smallest border (usually top/sides) is 1/3 the size of the largest border (usually bottom).

Example:

• Top and sides: 2 inches each
• Bottom: 3 inches

This creates visually pleasing proportions.

Standard Border Widths:

Minimal (Gallery Style):

• Top and sides: 1 inch
• Bottom: 1.5 inches
• Creates a modern, clean look
• Works for larger pieces

Standard (Classic):

• Top and sides: 2 inches
• Bottom: 3 inches
• Most traditional approach
• Works for most artwork

Generous (Museum Style):

• Top and sides: 3 inches
• Bottom: 4-5 inches
• Creates an elegant, spacious feel
• Best for smaller, precious pieces

Very Generous (Gallery Showcase):

• Top and sides: 4+ inches
• Bottom: 5-6+ inches
• Premium, museum-quality appearance
• Makes small pieces appear more significant

Photo Mat Sizes: Matching Common Photo Dimensions

For 4×6 Photos:

• Best overall mat size: 8×10 inches
• Window opening: 4×6 inches (centered)
• Border: 2 inches top/sides, 2 inches bottom
• Fits standard 8×10 frame

For 5×7 Photos:

• Best overall mat size: 8×10 inches or 11×14 inches
• Window opening: 5×7 inches (centered)
• 8×10 option: 1.5 inch top/sides, 2 inch bottom borders
• 11×14 option: 3-inch top/sides, 3.5-inch bottom borders

For 8×10 Photos:

• Best overall mat size: 11×14 inches or 16×20 inches
• Window opening: 8×10 inches
• 11×14 option: 1.5 inch top/sides, 2 inch bottom
• 16×20 option: 4-inch top/sides, 4-inch bottom

For 11×14 Photos:

• Best overall mat size: 16×20 inches or 20×24 inches
• Window opening: 11×14 inches
• 16×20 option: 2.5 inch top/sides, 3 inch bottom
• 20×24 option: 4.5 inch top/sides, 5 inch bottom

For Poster/Large Prints (16×20, 18×24):

• Best overall mat size: 20×24 inches or 24×36 inches
• 20×24 option: 2-inch minimal borders (modern look)
• 24×36 option: 4-inch generous borders (museum style)

Print Mat Sizes: Matching Common Print Dimensions

For Standard Art Prints (Various Sizes):

8.5×11 inch print (common standard):

• Best mat: 11×14 inches overall
• Window: 8.5×11 inches
• Borders: 1.25 inch top/sides, 1.75 inch bottom
• Fits standard 11×14 frame

11×17 inch print (tabloid size):

• Best mat: 16×20 inches overall
• Window: 11×17 inches
• Borders: 2.5-inch top/sides, 1.5-inch bottom
• Fits standard frame

12×18 inch print (common landscape):

• Best mat: 16×20 inches or 18×24 inches
• 16×20 option: 2-inch top/sides, 1-inch bottom
• 18×24 option: 3-inch top/sides, 3-inch bottom

Poster Size Prints (18×24, 22×28, 24×36):

• Match with proportionally larger mats
• 18×24 print → 22×28 mat with generous borders
• 24×36 print → 28×40+ mat

Custom Mat Sizes: When Standard Won’t Work

Custom Mat Advantages:

• Perfect fit for any artwork size
• Exact border proportions desired
• Professional appearance
• More expensive than standard

When to Consider Custom:

• Artwork is a non-standard size
• You have specific border width preferences
• Double-matting with a color combination is needed
• Odd dimensions (7×12, 10×15, etc.)

Custom Mat Cost:

• Standard-sized custom: $15-30
• Double mat custom: $30-50
• Triple mat (very elaborate): $50+
• Professional framing shops handle custom orders

Mat Board Types and Finishes

Mat Board Materials:

Acid-Free (Museum Quality):

• Won’t yellow or deteriorate
• Protects artwork long-term
• Industry standard
• Slightly more expensive

Regular Mat Board:

• Contains acid
• Acceptable for temporary displays
• Not recommended for valuable artwork
• Cheaper option

Mat Board Colors:

Neutral Options (Most Versatile):

• White (classic, clean)
• Cream (warm, traditional)
• Light gray (contemporary)
• Tan/Beige (neutral, warm)

Colored Options (Statement Makers):

• Navy blue (elegant, adds sophistication)
• Burgundy (rich, traditional)
• Forest green (sophisticated)
• Black (dramatic, modern)
• Gold/Metallic (special occasions)
• Charcoal (contemporary, sophisticated)

Mat Finishes:

Matte Finish (Most Common):

• Non-reflective
• Professional appearance
• Doesn’t compete with the artwork
• Standard choice for most framing

Linen Finish:

• Textured surface
• Adds visual interest
• More expensive
• Elegant, sophisticated appearance

Glossy/Shiny Finish (Rare):

• Reflective surface
• Rarely used (competes with artwork)
• Contemporary look
• Generally not recommended by professionals

Double-Mat Sizing Guide

Double-matting (two mats layered) creates an elegant frame-within-frame effect. The inner mat color appears as a thin border between the artwork and the outer mat.

Common Double-Mat Combinations:

Classic White + Accent Color:

• Outer mat: white
• Inner mat: navy, burgundy, or accent color
• Inner mat border showing: 1/4 to 1/2 inch
• Creates a sophisticated, gallery appearance

Example: 11×14 Double Mat for 5×7 Photo

• Outer mat: 11×14 overall, 5.5×7.5 window
• Inner mat: 5.5×7.5 overall, 4.75×6.75 window
• Shows 3/8 inch border of the inner mat color around the photo

Measurement for Double-Mat:

• Outer mat window: 1/4 inch larger than the inner mat overall size
• Inner mat window: 1/4 inch larger than artwork

Cost: Double-mat roughly doubles matting cost but creates a striking effect.

Mat Size Calculator: Determining Your Needs

Step 1: Measure Your Artwork

• Width: _____ inches
• Height: _____ inches

Step 2: Decide on Border Width

• Top and sides: _____ inches
• Bottom: _____ inches (typically 0.5-1.5 inches larger than sides)

Step 3: Calculate Overall Mat Size

Formula:

• Overall width = Artwork width + (left border + right border)
• Overall height = Artwork height + (top border + bottom border)

Example:

• 5×7 photo
• 2-inch top and side borders
• 3-inch bottom border
• Overall width = 5 + 2 + 2 = 9 inches
• Overall height = 7 + 2 + 3 = 12 inches
• Result: 9×12 mat (or standard 11×14 with adjusted borders)

Step 4: Check Frame Availability

Ensure the frame size is available for your calculated mat size. Standard frame sizes: 5×7, 8×10, 11×14, 16×20, 18×24, 20×24, 22×28, 24×36.

If your calculated size doesn’t match a standard frame, round up to the next standard size.

Where to Buy Mat-Ready Supplies

Pre-Cut Mat Options:

Art Supply Stores (Michael’s, Blick):

• Standard mat sizes in stock
• Custom mat ordering available
• Price range: $5-15 for standard, $15-30 for custom

Online Retailers:

• Standard mats available
• Cheaper than retail stores
• Order online, pick up in-store option
• Price range: $3-10 for standard

Professional Framing Shops:

• Custom cuts to exact specifications
• Expert advice
• Higher price point
• Acid-free, museum-quality materials standard

DIY Mat Cutting:

If you’re cutting your own mats:

• Mat cutter tool: $20-50
• Mat board: $2-5 per sheet
• Straightedge: $5-15
• Requires precision and practice

 FAQs: Matte Size for paint coverage

Q: What’s the ideal bottom border width?

A: Typically 0.5-1.5 inches larger than the top and side borders. A 2-inch top and 3-inch bottom are a classic proportion.

Q: Can I use different border widths (asymmetrical)?

A: Professional framers rarely do this. Symmetrical borders (equal left/right, slightly larger bottom) are standard. Asymmetrical looks intentional-modern or unintentional-mistake.

Q: Should the mat color match the frame color?

A: Not necessarily. Classic is a white or cream mat with a wood frame. Colored mats work with any frame. Consider artwork colors primarily.

Q: How much of my artwork should the mat cover?

A: Your entire artwork should be visible behind the mat window. Mat should not cover any part of the artwork.

Q: Do I need a mat, or can I frame without one?

A: Mats are optional but recommended. They:

• Protect artwork (air gap between art and glass)
• Provide aesthetic appeal
• Add a professional appearance
• Create a visual framework for the artwork

Q: Can I double-mat inexpensive artwork?

A: Yes. Double-matting elevates the appearance regardless of the artwork’s value. Creates a gallery-quality look.

Q: What about triple-matting?

A: Three layers create a museum-quality appearance. Each mat shows a thin border of color. Expensive but striking. Reserved for very valuable pieces.

Q: Standard mat size for poster?

A: 24×36 poster typically uses a 28×40 mat with 2-inch borders all around, or a 30×42 mat with generous 3-inch borders.

Q: Can I reuse mats?

A: Difficult. Removing artwork can damage the mat. Professional reframing typically means a new mat.

Q: Do larger mats require larger frames?

A: Yes. Mat size determines frame size. Calculate mat size, then purchase a frame that size.

Matting Tips for Best Results

Tip 1: Keep It Simple

One color mat or a classic white/cream mat works best. Multiple colors compete with the artwork.

Tip 2: Consider Artwork Subject

• Modern/abstract art: white or gray mat, minimal borders
• Landscape/nature: white, cream, or muted earth tones
• Portrait: soft mat colors (cream, light gray, soft blue)
• Black and white photo: white, gray, or cream mat

Tip 3: Leave Adequate Air Space

The gap between the artwork and the glass (created by the mat) protects the artwork. Minimum 1/8 inch (mat thickness provides this).

Tip 4: Use Acid-Free Mat Board

Especially for artwork you plan to keep long-term. Prevents yellowing and deterioration.

Tip 5: Professional Framing for Valuable Pieces

Original artwork, valuable prints, or sentimental pieces deserve professional matting by experienced framers.

Tip 6: Consistent Sizing Creates Gallery Effect

Multiple framed pieces with the same mat color and proportions create a cohesive gallery wall.

Common Mat Size Reference Chart

The Bottom Line: Proper Mat Sizing Matters

Choosing the right mat size—the overall dimensions, window opening, and border widths—transforms your framing from basic to beautiful.

The most important factors:

• Overall mat size matches your frame size
• The window opening matches your artwork size
• Border proportions (typically 1/3 rule: smallest = 1/3 of largest)
• Acid-free mat board protects long-term
• Color complements artwork and décor

Whether using standard pre-cut mats or ordering custom mats, taking the time to choose the correct proportions significantly elevates your framing.

Your beautiful artwork deserves matting that does it justice.

Resources

For comprehensive information about matting and framing:

Professional Picture Framers Association: Matting Guidelines Professional standards for mat selection, sizing, and best practices for framing artwork and photographs with proper matting techniques.

Library of Congress: Preservation Guidelines Museum-quality information about protecting artwork with proper acid-free matting and archival framing materials for long-term preservation.

Disclaimer

Purpose: This article is educational and informational about mat sizing principles and standard practices.

Measurements: Dimensions provided are recommendations based on standard framing practices. Individual preferences may vary. Professional framers can customize for specific needs.

Material Information: Acid-free mat board is recommended for artwork preservation. Standard board is acceptable for temporary displays or décor pieces without sentimental value.

Professional Framing: For valuable artwork, original pieces, or specific requirements, professional framing services provide expert guidance and superior results.

Frame Availability: Frames may not be available in all calculated mat sizes. Standard frame sizes (8×10, 11×14, 16×20, etc.) are most readily available.

Color and Finish: Mat colors and finishes may appear different depending on lighting and surrounding décor.If possible, view samples in your space before ordering.

DIY Matting: Cutting mats requires precision tools and practice. Professional mat cutting guarantees clean, accurate results.

This article provides general guidelines for mat sizing and selection. Professional framers can provide personalized recommendations for your specific artwork and needs.