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
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
Common Large Frame Sizes
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 are 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
Understanding Square Frame Sizes
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
Understanding Panoramic Frame Sizes
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.
Quick Frame Size Checklist
Before choosing a picture frame, remember:
✓ Measure the artwork, not the old frame
✓ Check both width and height
✓ Use either inches or centimetres consistently
✓ Consider where the frame will be displayed
✓ Double-check measurements before ordering
Explore Different Frame Styles
Depending on your artwork and available space, you may wish to consider:
- Square Frames
- Rectangle Frames
- Panoramic Frames
- Small Tabletop Frames
- Large Statement Frames
Each style serves a different purpose and can dramatically influence the final appearance of your display.
Key Takeaway
Understanding standard picture frame sizes can make selecting a frame much easier. Whether you’re displaying family photographs, certificates, artwork or panoramic prints, choosing the correct size helps create a display that looks balanced, organised and visually appealing.
Taking accurate measurements and understanding the most common UK frame sizes will help ensure your chosen frame fits perfectly within your space.
