When you buy a poster, you may wonder what the best way to hang it on the wall is. Of course, you can just place it there and that’s it. However, it would be much more stylish and convenient if you frame it. As you may face some problems while choosing a suitable frame, we would like to help you to avoid them. So, let’s see how to choose poster frames.
Before choosing a certain poster frame, it’s necessary to decide if you need a mat board (a colored material, used for leaving some space between a poster and a frame and for creating a border between a frame and a poster). If yes, think over its size and color.
old picture frame, wooden + silver, inside leather, with clipping path!
Once you are ready with this, measure the poster width, length and thickness, taking into account the size of the mat. If you decide to frame the poster without mat, you just need the poster measurements. When you know what size the ready poster must be, you are ready to enter the market of frames.
Contents
- 1 Standard poster frame sizes
- 2 Custom poster frames
- 3 Materials for frames
- 4 Glass and acrylic frames
- 5 Framing photos without glass
- 6 Types of frames
- 7 Where can you buy frames?
- 7.1 Prices for frames
Standard poster frame sizes
Poster frames have some standard sizes, for example like 18x24 poster frame, 24x36 poster frame or 27x40 poster frame.
There are several standard sizes of poster frames. They are:
- 11x17 in
- 12x18 in
- 16x20 in
- 18x24 in
- 20x24 in
- 24x30 in
- 24x36 in
- 30x40 in
Custom poster frames
However, many companies and online shops make custom frames and you are free to choose the dimensions that you need. In such a way, if your poster is of non-standard size, for example 24x90, you can order a frame, which will fit it perfectly. Moreover, if you order a custom frame, you are free to choose its design and materials.
Materials for frames
There are three types of materials, which are usually used for poster frames. They are: wood, metal and plastic. Metal and wood frames are considered to be more qualitative while the plastic ones are cheaper. The people usually use metal or plastic frames for posters as the wooden ones look better with paintings and more classic things. However, nowadays, some wooden frames look very stylish and can easily be used for modern posters.
Each frame can be either with picture framing glass or without it. It’s possible to frame such a piece of art as poster without glass. However, if you want to preserve it for many years without a single scratch, it’s better to use a frame with glass.
Each frame can be either with picture framing glass or without it. It’s possible to frame such a piece of art as poster without glass. However, if you want to preserve it for many years without a single scratch, it’s better to use a frame with glass.
Glass and acrylic frames
The main benefit of having a glass frame is that it protects the image very well and is resistant to scratching. Using glass for frames allows you to save the poster in its initial state for a long period of time. Moreover, there are also such kinds of glass, which protect the image from the UV light. They cost more, but do their job very well. However, that's very easy to break the glass and that's its main disadvantage.
Glass frames can be dangerous for children and it’s not recommended to use them for your kids’ room. Nowadays, some framing companies use acrylic or plexiglass, which is more resistant to breaking. It’s easy to ship it. Acrylic also weights less than glass and makes the process of mounting a picture easier. It’s often used for very large works of art as glass is too heavy for them. However, such a material needs special attention. It’s less resistant to scratching than glass and can bend.
Framing photos without glass
Some people don't like frames with glass because they often reflect the bright light and prefer to buy glass-free frames. In such a way, one can see the image better and doesn't afraid of breaking the glass. However, of course, frames without glass have their demerits. They don't protect the poster from dust and sunlight, which can spoil them, and other outer factors.
Types of frames
Besides the materials, you should also think about the style and color of the frame. In order to determine what you need, it’s necessary to think over the place, where you are going to hang a poster. The most general types of frames are contemporary, ornate, rustic, simple and traditional.
Contemporary frames are usually minimalistic in design and almost have no decoration. They are usually used for modern pieces of art and that’s why they can be easily used as modern movie poster frames.
Ornate frames look very luxurious. They are perfect for some classic paintings and retro posters.
Room interior - ornate frame on the wall
Vintage frames are usually made of wood only. If you have a western movie poster or the vintage one, it will look nice in such a frame.
Vintage blank wooden frame bottles and rose in a pot on a white wall
The major plus of simple frames is that they fit every picture and every style. They are almost invisible and it lets the people concentrate on the image itself.
Poster New York city with a hand-drawn sketch of the Statue of Liberty
Traditional frames, as well as the simple ones, are used for many pictures, including posters, photos and paintings.
Traditional frame
However, the style of the poster isn’t the only thing, which you need to take into account while choosing a frame design. You should also think over the style of the room, where the poster will be placed. If, for example, your flat is in modern style, rustic or ornate frames will look strange in the interior.
Where can you buy frames?
Now, when you know what frame you need, it’s time to discover where and at what price you can buy it.
Among the most popular sites for poster frames are:
Walmart online department store sells frames of different companies at reasonable prices ($14-15). If you need a traditional frame, you can buy it here. However, the biggest size of the frame, available on the site, is 24x36. The company also doesn’t make custom frames and all the frames are of standard sizes.
Frame USA is an online shop, which offers rather cheap poster frames, made of plastic or polystyrene. For example, a 18x24 frame costs about $10 and a 27x41 one costs $24. Moreover, they are able to do a frame of any size for you and that’s very convenient if you have a non-standard picture. The minus of this shop is that the assortment isn’t very big.
American Frame site has a wonderful collection of frames of all possible styles and designs. You can spend long hours on this site, trying to understand what to choose. The company offers all possible sizes of frames and can also make frames of non-standard sizes. However, their frames are rather expensive.
Prices for frames
Here are the approximate prices:
Type | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
Wooden frame | 18 x 24 | $20 |
Wooden frame | 27 x 41 | $34 |
Metal frame | 18 x 24 | $60 |
Metal frame | 27 x 41 | $122 |
Picture Frames also has a good collection of poster frames of many colors and designs. The prices are reasonable here: starting from $23 for 18x24 frame and $28 for 27x41 one. Moreover, they do custom frames in any sizes you need.
On the net, you will certainly face some ikea frames, which have interesting designs and different colors. Unfortunately, they are usually photo frames and aren’t available in big sizes.
So, what is the best place to buy a frame? It depends on what you want. If you need a simple and traditional frame, you can find it almost at any live and online shop, which deals with frames. But if you want something special, it’s better to turn to the shops, which are able to meet all your requirements. Be ready that frames with unusual designs cost more. That’s why you need to decide if you need a frame just to protect your poster or you want it to be an integral part of your interior design.
We hope that our pieces of advice will be really useful for you and you will be able to frame your poster without any problems.
FAQs
How do you size a poster frame? ›
As a rule of thumb, your finished frame will be one to two inches wider and longer than your poster itself if it has no mat, and 6-8 inches larger if you choose to mat it. That being said, there are multitudes of frames and frame styles to fit your posters in different sizes.
How do I make my own poster frame? ›Cut a piece of acid free archival paper such as glass scene or museum barrier to the same size as
Will a 24x36 poster fit in a 24x36 frame? ›A: A 24x36 poster will need a 24x36 frame. All of our frames are listed and described according to industry standard, which is by the size print that they will hold (inside dimensions).
Does the frame have to be the same size of the poster? ›Often times the standard rule is to select a frame that is an inch wider and taller than the print, or poster. The frame shouldn't be any bigger than the standard as it will make the picture or print look odd.
How do you put a poster in a poster frame? ›- Remove the shrink wrap.
- Lift the metal tabs.
- Remove the backing board.
- Remove the protective film from both sides of the styrene.
- Insert your poster.
- Replace the backing board and secure with the metal tabs.
- Hang on your wall.
DIY Poster Frame | DIY vintage frame - YouTube
How do I make my own large frame? ›How to Make HUGE DIY Custom Picture Frames--SO EASY! - YouTube
How do I make a picture frame? ›How to Make a Picture Frame 3 Ways | DIY Woodworking - YouTube
How do I choose the right size art frame? ›Ideally, it should be approximately 1/2" smaller than the paper. So, for an 8.5x11 paper size, you'll want the mat to be 8x10. 5. However, in the example above, you could even go a little smaller if you so choose.
What size frame do I need for a 16x20 poster? ›What Size Frame for a 16x20 Print? You would need a 20" x 24" size frame.
What size frame do I need for an A3 print? ›
I.e. an A3 print (29.7 x 42cm) comes with a matching mount (outer size 40.6 x 50.8cm) which perfectly fits in a matching frame. Add the thickness of the frame profile to it (from 25mm to 85mm) on all sides. The largest frame we supply is 76.4 x 93.6cm.
What is a good size for a poster? ›What are the standard poster sizes? The most common poster sizes you'll see are 11×17, 18×24, 24×36 and 27×40. If the sizes above don't quite fit your needs, sizes 12×18, 16×20 and 17×22 are also available for print through PrintingCenterUSA.
What is the best frame for a poster? ›Metal and wood are the two most popular frame types. Metal is a popular choice for poster frames thanks to a wide selection of colors, finishes, and high durability. Some metal options include aluminum, bronze, silver, and gold. Aluminum is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant option.
What size is an A3 poster? ›Quick Tip: Hold Cheap Poster Frames Stay Together - YouTube
Is it easy to frame a poster? ›It's easy to frame your own poster. Choose a frame that is the exact size of your poster—or choose a larger size frame and mat it to fit.
How do you frame a poster without wrinkles? ›Roll four pieces of masking tape and place them in each corner on the backside of the poster. Press the cardboard over the poster and smooth into place. Place the paperweights over the top of the cardboard to continue to smooth out any wrinkles. Now when you frame the poster, the poster won't slide and wrinkle.
What happens if poster is smaller than frame? ›For prints that are only slightly smaller than the standard frame, cut the poster board to fit the frame. Center the print on the board and use double-sided photo tape to attach it. The matching color will make the edges imperceptible and the poster board will look like part of the print's white border.
What are standard framing sizes? ›Traditionally, the most common frame sizes have been 4x6, 5x7 and 8x10. These look great in any room in your house or office! Recently, however, 5x5 picture frames have become really popular.
How do you frame a paper print? ›Take two thin pieces of tape and place them on the back of the artwork (so that the sticky side doesn't touch your mat). Then place two more thin pieces sticky-side down across the vertical edges to attach the print to the back. Doing this keeps your print steady as you lay the mat directly on top.
How do you make a wooden poster frame? ›
Making A Wood Poster Frame - YouTube
How do you make a fake frame? ›Genius "Fake Frame" Trick You Need Before Hanging! - YouTube
How do you make a DIY map frame? ›EASY PEASY | Framing any Artpiece like an Old Classroom Map - YouTube
How do you put a picture frame together? ›Oversized Wood Picture Frame: How to Properly Assemble - YouTube
How can I make cheap frames look expensive? ›DECOR HACKS | How to Make Cheap Frames Look Expensive - YouTube
What materials do you need to make a picture frame? ›- Frame. The frame is the most obvious item you'll need. ...
- Backing Board. Backing board, or mounting board, is important to help keep your photo stable. ...
- Mat Board. The mat board is the border material that surrounds the photo inside the frame. ...
- Glazing. ...
- Hanging Kit. ...
- Optional Items.
How To Frame Your Art - YouTube
How do you measure and cut a picture frame? ›Once you know the height and width of your picture frame, add the two measurements together and multiply that number by two. For example, if you are framing a print that is 11x14, you will add 11 and 14 to get 25. Then multiply that number by two to get 50. This is the total length of your print.
What comes first length or width or height? ›What comes first? The Graphics' industry standard is width by height (width x height). Meaning that when you write your measurements, you write them from your point of view, beginning with the width. That's important.
How do you measure frame size? ›Measuring A Picture Frame:
It is a common mistake to think the dimensions are the width and height of its outside edges. However, you want to measure the inside edge. For example, if you have a 4x6 image, you should order a 4x6 frame regardless of how much bigger than that the frame may be from outside-to-outside edge.
What size frame do I need for A4 print? ›
Find your dream frame for any standard A4 picture size. These frames and mounts are made to fit pieces that are 297mm x 210mm (29.7 x 21cm). Their small size makes them perfect for hanging or standing artwork, prized documents and precious photographs.
Is 16 x12 A3? ›A3 Size Prints (16" x 12")
Does A3 fit 30x40 frame? ›For A3 size (29.7 x 42cm) the closest sizes is often a 30 x 40 cm frame. This is problematic because the paper is 3mm narrower and 20mm taller than the frame. While the frame will overlap the 3mm deficit easily, you will be required to cut down the size of the print in order to fit it in.
Will A4 fit in 8x10 frame? ›The easy answer is no but in a touch of inspiration I measured the printed area and found that 8 x 10 was slightly bigger so I cut it down and it suits my purpose. 3 of 3 found this helpful.
How do I make an A0 poster in Powerpoint? ›In the 'Slides sized for:' drop down menu, select 'Custom' • Type 84.1 in the width box and 118.9 in the height box for an A0 Portrait poster. If your poster requirement is for a portrait style poster (tall and thin), then click the portrait orientation button to swap the values around for a portrait layout.
What size paper is poster size? ›Most posters are printed on 24×36 inch paper, and since the aspect ratio is 2:3, movie posters use this size as well.
What's the difference between a poster frame and a picture frame? ›Poster frames are simple frames that are used to protect posters and also add a finished look to this type of wall art. The standard poster frame resembles a simple picture frame and often makes use of the same type of materials for the framing.
What size frame do I need for a 12x16 print? ›Image size: 12x16"
This means that you need to have a frame equal to or larger than 13x17". If you wish to have a frame with a mat, make sure the OPENING is 12x16" and the actual frame is 13x17" or larger (for example, 16x20" frame matted to a 12x16" opening).
A poster frame is a preview image of your video, which can help your audience anticipate the content of the video you'll be showing them during your PowerPoint presentation. Here's how to add a video from your PC to your presentation and then select a poster frame for it.
Is A2 bigger than A4? ›This gives us an A2 size of 420mm x 594mm. You will notice that this is exactly the same size as 2 A3 sheets or 4 A4 sheets.
What size is A2 vs A4? ›
| Paper | mm | inches |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 594 x 841 mm | 23.4 x 33.1 inches |
| A2 | 420 x 594 mm | 16.5 x 23.4 inches |
| A3 | 297 x 420 mm | 11.7 x 16.5 inches |
| A4 | 210 x 297 mm | 8.3 x 11.7 inches |
What Size Frame for a 16x20 Print? You would need a 20" x 24" size frame.
What size is a 30 by 30 cm frame? ›| Centimetres (cm) | Millimetres (mm) | Inches |
|---|---|---|
| 30 x 30 cm | 300 x 300 mm | 11.81" x 11.81" |
| 30 x 40 cm | 300 x 400 mm | 11.81" x 15.75" |
| 35 x 100 cm | 350 x 1000 mm | 13.78" x 39.37" |
| 40 x 40 cm | 400 x 400 mm | 15.75" x 15.75" |
- Think of the space. When trying to find the perfect frame, first consider the space you have to work with. ...
- Photo type. Consider the type of photo you are planning to hang in the space. ...
- Consider the matting. ...
- Bring the photo with you. ...
- Measure, measure, measure.
Frame Size: This is the actual size of the window of the frame (glass). So, an 11x14 frame will be appropriate for an 11x14 print, with no mat. With a mat, it might be perfect for an 8x10 or 8.5x11 print.
What happens if poster is smaller than frame? ›For prints that are only slightly smaller than the standard frame, cut the poster board to fit the frame. Center the print on the board and use double-sided photo tape to attach it. The matching color will make the edges imperceptible and the poster board will look like part of the print's white border.
What size frame do I need for an A3 print? ›I.e. an A3 print (29.7 x 42cm) comes with a matching mount (outer size 40.6 x 50.8cm) which perfectly fits in a matching frame. Add the thickness of the frame profile to it (from 25mm to 85mm) on all sides. The largest frame we supply is 76.4 x 93.6cm.
What size frame do I need for A4 print? ›Find your dream frame for any standard A4 picture size. These frames and mounts are made to fit pieces that are 297mm x 210mm (29.7 x 21cm). Their small size makes them perfect for hanging or standing artwork, prized documents and precious photographs.
Does A3 fit 30x40 frame? ›For A3 size (29.7 x 42cm) the closest sizes is often a 30 x 40 cm frame. This is problematic because the paper is 3mm narrower and 20mm taller than the frame. While the frame will overlap the 3mm deficit easily, you will be required to cut down the size of the print in order to fit it in.
Will A4 fit in 8x10 frame? ›The easy answer is no but in a touch of inspiration I measured the printed area and found that 8 x 10 was slightly bigger so I cut it down and it suits my purpose. 3 of 3 found this helpful.
What size frame do I need for an A2 poster? ›
Before purchasing any frames please read and double check dimensions. The dimension for A2 size is 42x59.
What goes first width or length? ›What comes first? The Graphics' industry standard is width by height (width x height). Meaning that when you write your measurements, you write them from your point of view, beginning with the width.
How do frame measurements work? ›All frames are measured using the inside dimensions, height and width. So if you have a 30x40cm image, you need to order a 30x40cm frame.
How do I choose a frame? ›Tips for choosing a frame
Tip 1: Don't overemphasize matching specific colors in your photo to the frame color. Instead, consider the overall tone of the image when selecting a frame. Tip 2: Select a lighter frame for casual or simple art—and choose a darker frame for more elegant or formal pieces.
What are the standard poster sizes? The most common poster sizes you'll see are 11×17, 18×24, 24×36 and 27×40. If the sizes above don't quite fit your needs, sizes 12×18, 16×20 and 17×22 are also available for print through PrintingCenterUSA.
What are standard framing sizes? ›Traditionally, the most common frame sizes have been 4x6, 5x7 and 8x10. These look great in any room in your house or office! Recently, however, 5x5 picture frames have become really popular.
What size is A3 in inches? ›