WALL ART TOOLKIT GUIDE
What Size Mat and Frame for a 16×20 Picture?
Choose a mat and frame for a 16×20 picture. See the difference between owning a 16×20 picture and owning a 16×20 frame, with a simple mat estimator.
Quick answer: If your artwork itself is 16×20 inches, use a 16×20 frame without a mat. With a mat, the frame must be larger. If instead you already own a 16×20 frame, the artwork must be smaller than 16×20 when a mat is used.
Which 16×20 question are you asking?
I have a 16×20 picture
No mat: choose a 16×20 frame. With a mat: add the desired border to both sides to estimate the outer mat/frame dimensions.
I have a 16×20 frame
Your artwork must be smaller if you want a visible mat. The exact art size depends on the mat opening and overlap.
Mat and frame estimator
16 × 20 artwork + 2 in border → approximately 20 × 24 in outer mat/frame dimensions.
Mat opening matters
A mat opening is normally cut slightly smaller than the artwork so the print does not fall through. That means “art size,” “mat opening” and “frame size” are three different measurements. Always verify the framer or manufacturer specifications before ordering.