How to measure artwork for a frame

What you'll need

Tape measure or ruler, ideally metal, at least 50 cm long
Pencil for noting dimensions on paper
Notepaper to record width, height and depth
Calculator (optional) for computing the frame perimeter

Always measure in millimetres. Our order wizard works in mm, and exact entries prevent production errors.

Measuring width and height

The most important dimensions, the width and height of the artwork, determine the frame size. Follow these steps:

Place the artwork on a flat surface

Make sure the artwork lies flat and isn't warped. The surface (table, floor) should be clean to avoid damaging the artwork.

Measure the width

Place the ruler at the left edge of the artwork and measure horizontally to the right edge. Measure the visible area you want framed.

Measure the height

Measure vertically the same way, from the top edge to the bottom.

Measuring width and height on a flat surface

Measure in several places. If the edges are uneven or damaged, trim them flat.

For canvases stretched on a stretcher frame, measure all four corners and the centre. Cheap canvases often have significant irregularities the rabbet may not cover. In that case, remove the canvas and re-stretch it on a flat, square stretcher.

Check squareness by measuring the diagonals. If both diagonals are equal, the artwork is square.

Always submit the largest measured value!

Depth and thickness

The thickness of the artwork dictates how deep the rabbet needs to be. If the artwork is taller (thicker) than the rabbet, it will protrude beyond the back of the frame.

Measuring when replacing an old frame

Don't use the old frame's dimensions!! Always remove the artwork from the frame and measure it directly.

Edges of artwork that has been framed for a long time may be darker because they weren't exposed to light. For paper artwork, we recommend trimming so the darker edge is covered by the new frame's rabbet.

Common measurement mistakes

Measuring in centimetres instead of millimetres. Even a small 5 mm inaccuracy can prevent the artwork from fitting.

Measuring including the mat. Enter the artwork's dimensions alone in the wizard. The mat is added separately.

Forgetting depth. Especially for canvas on a stretcher. Without measuring the depth, the frame may not be deep enough.

Got the dimensions? Let's frame!

Enter your measurements in the order wizard and pick a frame made to size.

Start the order wizard

How to measure your artwork