How to Frame 8×10, 11×14, 16×20, and 18×24 Prints
Compare print size, mat opening, and outer frame dimensions before choosing a frame.
If you’re deciding how to frame common art print sizes, match the frame’s listed opening to the print for a full-bleed look, or choose a larger frame with a mat cut for the print size. Known Elsewhere prints are sold unframed, so confirm the print size, mat opening, frame rabbet, and outer frame dimensions before ordering a frame.
At a glance
- Known Elsewhere portrait print sizes are 8×10, 11×14, 16×20, and 18×24 inches; landscape versions mirror those dimensions.
- A no-mat frame should match the print’s listed size.
- A matted frame is larger than the print; the mat opening should fit the print size.
- Outer frame dimensions are larger than the listed frame size because moulding adds width.
- Frames shown in room images are styling references; the physical print is sold unframed.
Frame sizing table for KE print sizes
Use the print size as the starting point, then decide whether you want the art to meet the frame edge or sit inside a mat border. The frame’s listed size usually refers to the artwork area or mat window system, not the total outside edge.
| KE print size | No-mat frame to check | Common matted approach | Outer-dimension caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8×10 portrait or 10×8 landscape | 8×10 frame | 11×14 frame with an 8×10 mat opening | Outside edge is larger than 11×14 once moulding is added. |
| 11×14 portrait or 14×11 landscape | 11×14 frame | 16×20 frame with an 11×14 mat opening | Outside edge is larger than 16×20 once moulding is added. |
| 16×20 portrait or 20×16 landscape | 16×20 frame | A larger frame with a 16×20 mat opening | Check the full outside measurement before placing above furniture. |
| 18×24 portrait or 24×18 landscape | 18×24 frame | A larger frame with an 18×24 mat opening | Measure the finished frame, not only the print area. |
Choose mat or no mat before you buy the frame
A mat changes both the look and the finished size. No mat feels cleaner and closer to poster presentation; a mat creates breathing room and can make a smaller print feel more formal on the wall.
- Choose no mat when you want the print to fill the visible frame area.
- Choose a mat when you want more border, more visual pause, or a larger wall presence.
- Check that the mat opening is made for the print size, not just close to it.
- Avoid relying only on product photos; read the listed opening and outside dimensions.
Calculate the outside edge, not just the print opening
For wall planning, the finished outside edge is what matters. A frame listed for an 11×14 print can occupy more wall space once the moulding is included on all sides.
- Start with the listed frame size or mat-window frame size.
- Add the moulding width on the left and right to estimate finished width.
- Add the moulding width on the top and bottom to estimate finished height.
- Compare that finished size with the wall, furniture width, and nearby objects.
Pre-order checklist for framing a print
Before ordering a frame, confirm the print orientation, the intended visible border, and whether the frame listing describes the art opening, mat opening, or finished outside edge.
- Confirm portrait or landscape orientation before selecting the frame.
- Confirm the print size in inches against the frame opening or mat opening.
- Look for language such as opening, mat opening, rabbet, and outside dimension.
- If using a mat, make sure the window is cut for the print size.
- Remember that Known Elsewhere prints are made to order on archival matte paper and sold unframed.
Choose this if / Avoid this if
Choose this if
- Use a same-size frame if you want a clean edge-to-edge presentation.
- Use a larger matted frame if the print needs more visual space on the wall.
- Use the finished outside dimension when planning above furniture or in a tight hallway.
Avoid this if
- Do not choose by room mockup alone; verify the actual dimensions.
- Do not assume a larger frame includes a mat cut for your print size.
- Do not plan from the print size only when the moulding will add noticeable width.
Frequently asked questions
What frame size do I need for an 8×10 print?
For a no-mat look, check an 8×10 frame. For a matted look, an 11×14 frame with an 8×10 mat opening is a common approach, but always verify the opening and outside measurements.
Can I put an 11×14 print in a 16×20 frame?
Yes, if the frame includes or accepts a mat with an 11×14 opening. Without the correct mat opening, the print may not sit securely or look centered.
What matters more: frame size or outside dimensions?
For fit, the opening or mat window must match the print. For wall placement, the outside dimensions matter more because moulding makes the finished frame larger than the listed print opening.
Are Known Elsewhere prints already framed?
No. Known Elsewhere art prints are physical paper prints sold unframed. Frames shown in room imagery are for styling context only.
Method & sources
How we know
This guide uses Known Elsewhere’s supported print dimensions and product-state disclosures, then applies standard framing language: same-size frames for no-mat presentation, larger frames for matted presentation, and finished outside dimensions for wall planning.
What this is based on
- Known Elsewhere operational product facts for paper, sizes, unframed state, made-to-order fulfillment, and shipping area.
- Published Known Elsewhere size guide for supported portrait and landscape dimensions.
- Known Elsewhere framing disclosure that prints are sold unframed and room-image frames are not part of the print purchase.
- Manufacturer format context for the configured poster product.
Limits
- Frame listings vary by maker; verify each frame’s opening, mat opening, rabbet, and outside dimensions before purchase.
- This guide does not test third-party frames or guarantee compatibility with a specific frame brand.
- Mat availability and exact window cuts vary, especially for larger print sizes.