How To Calculate Mat Sizes

In this video, we walk you through how to calculate mat sizes. This simple math will help you determine frame sizes and proper print/mat pairings.
MUSEA is a museum quality print lab in Nashville, TN for professional photographers.
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[@josephina4792]

Thanks for a clear explanation. Video is very helpful.

[@jonathanbaxter4366]

Didn't think I would find this very informative. The way you explained it made it very informative. Thanks

[@JohnOsCreations]

Excellent video. Was looking for this information for hours. Thanks.

[@TrevorSimington82]

I’m confused it doesn’t seem like we are addressing or factoring in the 1/4 inch boundary on each side that image needs to sit on

[@colinmlivingspace]

Excellent tutorial! Just what I've been looking for. I love the way you explain everything so clear and concise. Thank you so so much for this.

[@Nat.ImagesLarge.F.Photographer]

Excellent tutorial, many thanks!

[@soulrebel2006]

Excellent explanation. Thanks a million !!

[@MUSEA]

Glad it was helpful! :)

[@glumberty1]

This was very helpful.

[@mariapazaristeaguirre4491]

Hello, what kind of ruler do you use?

[@EAAL1988]

What would be the best mat size and frame for an 11x14 print? Awesome video ❤️

[@MUSEA]

For a standard size to easily find a pre-made frame, do a 16x20 mat.

[@ransomvalley]

This very helpful, thank you. Do you have a video that details choosing a frame width/depth? Meaning, if I have a 8x12 image with a 2" mat on all four sides, is there a 'golden rule' as to what frame width and depth would look best?

[@MUSEA]

Hi! There isn’t many rules/guidelines for frame width and depth. When working with larger prints that comes into play more from a structural strength standpoint. For smaller prints, it’s purely aesthetic and personal preference. You have free range to select pretty much any frame.

[@ransomvalley]

@@MUSEA Awesome, thanks so much for all the great content! In your personal opinion, with an 8x12 picture do you think a 2" mat all the way around would be a good size? I see some people talking about ''the golden ratio', which I think would be a mat of around 1.33 or something for a 8x12 picture?

[@MUSEA]

@@ransomvalley We do a 2” mat all the time around 8x12’s and we think it looks great! Like all creative decisions it’s really whatever makes you happy.

[@ransomvalley]

@@MUSEA I knew I was over thinking it! Really appreciate your time. Have a nice evening.

[@georgemacdonald5282]

You would work everything out when you had the frame that you chose for the print, photo etc and just remember to cut your opening smaller than the photo so the photo doesn't fall through the opening.

[@lizfret4178]

What size mat do I need for a 24 x18 picture?

[@gloriadelarosa6422]

should I draw my art on 8 x 11 paper or 8 x 10 to put on 11 x 14 mat

[@MUSEA]

Hi Gloria! Either one works. Though an 8x11 paper in an 11x14 mat gives you even mat borders on all 4 sides which is more custom looking.

[@jaredwaters4633]

What’s the rule of thumb for selecting the frame with in relation to Matt width. I’ve read that the Matt should be 1.5-2 times the width of the frame.

[@MUSEA]

Hey Jared! Can you provide a specific example? Mat width is very subjective in our opinion. We’ve seen small prints with large mat borders and large prints with small mat borders.

[@L.Spencer]

I have to remember to leave room around the edges when I'm taking photos, in case it's framed with a mat that will cover the photo a little bit.

[@MrMoxycotton]

Now I have a question, can I not just free hand measure the mat “ window opprning and use the actual size of the print “ art” as my frame size ?

[@MUSEA]

I’m a little confused by your question. Can you be more specific?

[@leapingjoseph8462]

Why do printing companies always give height before width? FOr example they will call a 12x8 photo an 8x12 photo. They do the same for frames.

[@ReynaSlugBugKENO]

My image is 10” x 16” print

[@georgemacdonald5282]

Sorry but i found the whole discription confusing and the video went on and on,

[@robertr6675]

Confused me more! You also mumble.

[@donmeyers3090]

Yeah, but now at least you know that 12 + 2 + 2 = 16, so there's that.