Ordering a Picture Frame: Measuring and Selecting for Existing Artwork
· 5 min read
Framing an existing artwork requires precise measurements and the right material choices. Learn how to measure correctly and choose suitable frames and passe-partouts.
Measure the artwork exactly
Do not use the dimensions of an old frame. Measure the exact width and height of the artwork itself, from edge to edge. If the artwork is on a stretcher frame or is thick, measure its depth as well.
Select the artwork type
The ordering tool asks for the type of artwork (e.g., photo, poster, canvas). This filters the available frames to ensure compatibility, especially regarding the rebate depth needed to hold the piece securely.
Passe-partout considerations
If you add a passe-partout, it will cover a few millimeters of the artwork's edge to hold it in place, and its outer dimensions will dictate the final frame size. Check the calculated outer dimensions carefully.
Frame materials and glass
Choose between wood and aluminum frames based on the artwork's style. For paper artworks, select glass (clear, matte, or Artglass) to protect the piece. Canvas artworks generally do not require glass.
Practical check before confirming
When framing an existing artwork, the most common mistake is entering the dimensions of an old frame or an approximate measurement. The tool needs the width and height of the artwork itself, and for a more rigid piece or a canvas on a stretcher frame, the thickness as well. Write down the measurements right as you take them and measure opposite sides if necessary. Then select the artwork type, as suitable frames and additional options for paper artworks depend on this. Do a frame tone test with the artwork, not just according to the wall color. If you add a passe-partout, definitely check the outer dimensions of the whole at the end.
For example, for a graphic print, measure the entire sheet, not just the print area. For a painting on harder cardboard, check multiple edges and enter the larger result so the actual artwork is taken into account.
Quick Checklist
- Did you choose the correct artwork type?
- Did you measure the artwork from edge to edge, not by the old frame?
- For an artwork requiring thickness, did you also enter depth?
- Does the tool show compatibility in the chosen frame size?
- With a passe-partout, did you check the outer dimensions?
If the measurement is borderline, measure again on a clean, flat surface. An exact entry is better than an estimated rounding, because the fit of the frame depends on the actual dimensions of the artwork.
Example of making a decision: for an existing graphic print, measure the entire paper sheet, choose graphic print in the tool, and enter the obtained width and height. Then look at the available frames. If you add a passe-partout, don't change the dimension of the artwork itself – borders are added to the outer dimensions separately.
Write down the measurements along with the artwork type. This avoids mixing up the old frame's measurement or the picture's visible area later.
Before confirming, compare the preview with the original photo once more.
Enter your measurements in the frame ordering tool to see options.
Read more
The frame materials guide compares wood and aluminum. The passe-partout guide helps with borders.