Learn all about the standard picture frame sizes in the UK
The first step in selecting a picture frame is to know the standard frame sizes. If you are framing photos, art, certificates, posters or panoramic prints, it’s helpful to know the most common frames sizes to make the job easier.
This guide details some of the most common picture frame sizes in the UK and which to use for your Display.
Why Frame Sizes Matter
Picture frames are designed to accommodate certain photo and artwork sizes. When choosing a frame size you can create a balanced composition and ensure your pictures and prints are safe.
The proper frame size can aid:
- Add to the look of your display
- Take out prints and artworks.Remove prints and artworks.
- Organise wall displays
- Prevent unnecessary cropping
The Following Table Shows Various Common Small Frame Sizes
Small frames are great for desks, shelves, bedside tables and smaller wall displays.
Common small frame sizes are:
- 4×4 inch
- 4×6 inch
- 5×5 inch
- 5×7 inch
- 6×8 inch
- 6×9 inch
These sizes are the standard sizes for:
- Family photographs
- Holiday pictures
- Personal gifts
- Children’s photographs
Common Medium Frame Sizes
Medium sized frames are one of the most common types of frames used in houses and offices.
The most common medium frame sizes are:
- 8×8 inch
- 8×10 inch
- 8.5×11 inch
- 9×11 inch
- 10×10 inch
- 12×8 inch
- 12×12 inch
- 14×10 inch
- 16×12 inch
These sizes are suitable for:
- Portrait photography
- Certificates
- Art prints
- Family displays
Standard Standard Sizes of Largeness
Large frames have a lot more impact and can be used as focal points.
Common large frame sizes are:
- 18×14 inch
- 20×16 inch
- 20×18 inch
- 24×18 inch
- 24×20 inch
- 24×24 inch
- 30×20 inch
- 32×24 inch
- 36×24 inch
Large frames: Best for:
- Statement artwork
- Feature walls
- Large family portraits
- Professional photography
Popular Metric Frame Sizes
Numerous artwork prints are sold in metric.
The following are common metric dimensions:
- 10×10 cm
- 15×15 cm
- 20×20 cm
- 24×30 cm
- 25×25 cm
- 30×30 cm
- 30×40 cm
- 40×40 cm
- 40×50 cm
- 50×60 cm
- 60×60 cm
- 70×50 cm
- 80×60 cm
- 90×60 cm
Metric sized frames are commonly used for:
- Art prints
- Posters
- Contemporary artwork
- European print formats
This Is an Understanding of the Size of Squares
Recent interior design is seeing an increase in the popularity of square frames.
Commonly used square dimensions are:
- 4×4 inch
- 5×5 inch
- 8×8 inch
- 10×10 inch
- 12×12 inch
- 16×16 inch
- 20×20 inch
- 24×24 inch
Square frames are typically used for:
- Social media photography
- Gallery walls
- Contemporary artwork
- Decorative displays
Knowing What Panoramic Frame Sizes Are
The Panoramic frames are developed for wide format images.
There are standard sizes of panoramas:
- 10×4 inch
- 12×5 inch
- 16×9 inch
- 20×10 inch
- 24×12 inch
- 30×10 inch
- 36×12 inch
Panoramic frames are ideal for:
- Landscape photography
- Travel photography
- City skyline prints
- Sports photography
How to Choose the Right Frame Size
If you are looking to buy a frame:
- Use a ruler to measure the work of art
- Use a ruler to measure width and height
- Always use the same unit of measurement
- Think about where the frame is going to be put
- Consider distance to viewing screens
Always use the correct size for the frame based on the size of the art work or photograph.
Typical Common Frame Sizing Errors
There are some basic frame sizing errors that many people fall into when purchasing frames.
Common mistakes include:
- When measuring an old frame, not the artwork
- Guessing dimensions
- Add or subtract inches and centimetres
- The frame might be too large or too small in size
- Remembering to measure either width or height, but not both
Taking accurate measurements can help avoid these issues.
Looking for the Right Frame?
Once you know your required frame size, you can explore:
- Rectangle Frames
- Square Frames
- Panoramic Frames
- Black Frames
- White Frames
- Oak Frames
- Walnut Frames
- Silver Frames
Visit our homepage to browse our complete collection of picture frames available in a wide range of sizes and finishes.
Conclusion
Knowing the standard picture frame sizes will help you select the right picture frame for your artwork, photos, certificates, and prints. From square frames to rectangles and panoramic frames, picking the appropriate size can create a display that is well-balanced, professional, and attractive.
Understanding the common frame sizes in the UK and making careful measurements can ensure you select the right frames for your work and seamlessly fit them into your desired environment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a frame colour that clashes with the room
- Buying a frame before measuring
- Ignoring viewing distance
- Using oversized frames in small spaces
