16 × 20 frame with a mat
Compare 8 × 10, 11 × 14 and 12 × 16 artwork inside a nominal 16 × 20 board.
| Full artwork | Mat opening | Side border | Top / bottom |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 × 10 | 7.75 × 9.75 | 4.125 | 5.125 |
| 11 × 14 | 10.75 × 13.75 | 2.625 | 3.125 |
| 12 × 16 | 11.75 × 15.75 | 2.125 | 2.125 |
Which print gives equal borders?
With the same overlap on every edge, a 12 × 16 print inside a 16 × 20 board has equal 2.125 inch borders. An 11 × 14 print leaves taller top and bottom borders. Choose by composition and the area you want visible.
The outside is larger than 16 × 20.
The nominal 16 × 20 size usually names the board or insert. The frame moulding changes the outside rectangle. Get the manufacturer’s exterior measurements before adding it to a gallery-wall plan.
A supplied mat may have a different opening from these examples. Check its stated picture size and exact window dimensions. Recalculate with your actual measurements.
A visual size estimate. Verify the actual artwork, frame, mat, glazing, hardware, wall and manufacturer specifications before buying or arranging a display. Dimensions alone do not guarantee fit.