In the Frame Shop on AmericanFrame.com, we take care of all the calculations for you. All you need to do is tell us the size of your artwork, your frame selection, which mat board(s) you want and we'll do the rest.

Below is some general information that will some in handy as you move through the process of selecting your frame.

How big is your artwork?

Trim your artwork if necessary and measure the horizontal and vertical dimensions exactly. These dimensions are used to calculate sizes and pricing for your frame, mat board, plexi-glass and mounting board.

NOTE: If you are ordering mat boards with this frame, you may want to decrease the stated artwork size below by 1/4" in each direction, to ensure a good fit.

How deep is your artwork?

For each style of frame, we provide a profile illustration with important measurements. Before ordering a frame, it is important to know the total thickness of your artwork and any plexi-glass, mat boards and backing boards you are framing. Once you have that measurement, compare it with the "rabbet depth" displayed in the illustration. If the total thickness of your materials is less than the rabbet depth, your artwork will fit inside the frame.

Sizing mat borders

While there is no mathematical equation, a good rule of thumb is to provide enough border to create a smooth transition from the artwork to the frame so as not to lose the picture among the matting. Most mats range in width from 2 1/4" for smaller projects (such as an 11" x 14" image) to 5" on projects that measure about 22" x 30." Some people like to make the bottom border a bit larger, to optically-center the artwork. Like many aesthetic aspects of framing, this, too, is your preference.

Sizing Rules

Our site will automatically follow these rules:

• Frames can be ordered in sizes from 5"x5" to 70"x70".
   
• Mat Board, Plexi-glass and Mounting Board cannot exceed the maximum sheet size of 32"x40".
   
• If your frame's width plus height exceeds 54" but fits within 32"x40" (i.e. 40"x15"), we cannot SHIP Mat Board, Plexi-glass and Mounting Board with a frame package. If you exceed the 54" limit in a mail order, only your frame and optional linen liner will be placed in your cart.

• Pick-Up Orders: If you will be picking up your order, you can order these accessories with frames greater than 54", up to the 32"x40" limitation.