Custom frames online make it easy to achieve a professional finish for artwork, photographs and prints, but accurate measurements are essential. Measuring your artwork correctly ensures your custom frame fits perfectly, protects your piece and looks exactly as intended when it arrives.
This step by step guide explains how to measure artwork properly before ordering custom frames online, whether you are framing a photo, print, canvas or artwork with a mat board.
If you are ready to order, you can view our full range of options on our
Custom Frames page.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter for Custom Frames Online
When ordering custom frames online, even small measurement errors can affect the final result. Incorrect measurements can lead to artwork not fitting the frame, uneven borders or visible gaps.
Taking accurate measurements helps:
- Ensure a precise fit
- Create a clean, professional finish
- Avoid delays or remakes
- Protect your artwork properly
Correct sizing is one of the most important steps when ordering custom frames.
What You Need Before Measuring Your Artwork
Before you begin measuring, make sure you have:
- A ruler or tape measure with millimetre markings
- Your artwork laid flat on a clean surface
- Good lighting to clearly see edges
Always measure in millimetres. This provides the accuracy required when ordering custom frames online.
How to Measure Artwork Without a Mat Board
If your artwork will be framed without a mat board, use these steps:
- Measure the width from the left edge to the right edge
- Measure the height from the top edge to the bottom edge
- Double check both measurements
Use the exact artwork size when placing your custom frame order. Frames are made to suit the dimensions you provide.
How to Measure Artwork With a Mat Board
When using a mat board, two measurements are important. If you are unsure whether a mat board is right for your artwork, our
guide Everything you need to know about Matboards explains the benefits and when it works best.
Artwork Size
This is the full size of the artwork itself.
- Measure the width and height of the artwork only
- Do not include any backing or existing frame
Mat Opening Size
The mat opening is the visible window inside the mat.
- The opening is usually slightly smaller than the artwork
- This allows the mat to hold the artwork securely
If you are unsure, choosing standard mat options when ordering custom frames online ensures the proportions are correct.
Measuring Prints With White Borders
Many prints include white borders around the image. You can choose to:
- Frame the entire paper size including the border
- Use a mat board to cover the border and show only the image
Decide which look you prefer before measuring, as this affects the size of your custom frame.
How to Measure Canvas Artwork for Custom Frames Online
Canvas artwork requires additional consideration.
To measure a canvas:
- Measure the width and height across the front of the canvas
- Measure the depth of the canvas edge
Canvas depth is important because deeper canvases require frames designed to accommodate the thickness.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing measurements for custom frames online, avoid:
- Measuring the backing instead of the artwork
- Guessing dimensions
- Rounding measurements up or down
- Measuring in centimetres instead of millimetres
Careful measuring ensures your custom frame fits perfectly the first time.
Ordering Custom Frames Online With Confidence
At
Just Picture Framing Online, ordering custom frames online is simple when you have accurate measurements. Our custom framing process allows you to select frame style, size and finish to suit your artwork, while ensuring a precise fit.
If you need help before ordering, our team is always available to assist.
Explore our full range of
custom frames online and create a frame that complements your artwork beautifully.
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