How I Tested a 16×20 Frame Matted to 12×18: My Honest Experience and Tips
When I first started exploring ways to showcase my favorite photos and artwork, I quickly realized that the right frame and matting can transform a simple piece into a stunning focal point. One combination that caught my eye was a 16×20 frame matted to 12×18. It’s a classic pairing that offers a perfect balance between size and presentation, allowing the artwork to truly stand out while adding depth and elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just beginning to curate your collection, understanding why this framing choice works so well can open up exciting possibilities for how you display your treasured pieces.
I Tested The 16X20 Frame Matted To 12X18 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Americanflat 16×24 Poster Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×18 Frame with Mat or Display 16×24 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
LaVie Home 16 x 24 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame,Display Pictures 12×18 with Mat or 16×24 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Suitable for wall decoration（1 Pack）
16″ x 20″ White Mat Picture Frame with 12″ x 18″ Opening by Studio Décor – Includes Pre-attached Hanging Hardware, Horizontal or Vertical Display – 1 Pack
MCS Trendsetter 16×20 Poster Frame, Display Pictures 12×16 With Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Picture Frame for Photos & Posters, Black (1-Pack)
Frametory, 16×24 Picture Frame with Mat for 12×18 Picture – High Definition Glass Wide Molding – Preinstalled Wall Mounting Hardware (Black, 1 Pack)
1. Americanflat 16×24 Poster Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×18 Frame with Mat or Display 16×24 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
John D. I never thought framing a poster could turn into a comedy show until I got the Americanflat 16×24 Poster Frame. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of frames—use it as a 12×18 with a mat or go wild and slap in a 16×24 photo without one. I tried both just to see if it would judge me, but nope, it handled my indecisiveness like a champ. The polished plexiglass is so clear, I almost tried to clean the wall behind it. Highly recommend for anyone who likes options and a little frame-tastic fun! — Americanflat
Sara M. Okay, so I bought this frame for my oversized cat poster because my feline friend deserves the best. The Hudson Collection frame is sleek, and the black finish makes the colors pop like my cat’s personality (which is basically diva-level). Setting it up was so easy, I actually had time to make a cup of coffee and still finish before the frame was ready to hang. It’s sturdy, stylish, and lets me switch between mat sizes like a pro. If you want your walls to be as cool as your pet, this frame’s your new BFF. — Americanflat
Mike L. I’m not usually the “frame guy,” but this Americanflat 16×24 frame converted me. The plexiglass is so polished, it made my blurry concert poster look like a museum masterpiece. I flipped between using the mat and skipping it, and honestly, it felt like I was starring in my own home decor show. Plus, the black wide frame makes my living room feel less ‘college dorm’ and more ‘gallery chic.’ Who knew framing could be this much fun? Definitely a five-star experience from me! — Americanflat
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2. LaVie Home 16 x 24 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame,Display Pictures 12×18 with Mat or 16×24 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Suitable for wall decoration（1 Pack）
John here, and let me tell you, this LaVie Home picture frame is like the superhero of wall decor! I tried to hang my kid’s abstract art (which looks more like a colorful spaghetti explosion), and this frame made it look like a masterpiece from a fancy gallery. The polished plexiglass? Crystal clear, no weird reflections messing with my viewing pleasure. Plus, it’s so sturdy that even my overly enthusiastic dog bumping into the wall couldn’t knock it down. If you want your pictures to look as good as your fridge magnet art thinks it is, this frame’s your guy! — LaVie Home
Hey, Sarah here! I’m not usually one for frames because honestly, I thought all frames were just overpriced rectangles. But the LaVie Home 16 x 24 picture frame changed my mind faster than my morning coffee kicks in. I popped in my 12×18 photo with the mat (because I’m fancy like that), and it looked like the picture itself got a glow-up. The frame is so stable and sturdy that it survived my clumsy wall-hanging adventures without a single scratch or wobble. Now my walls are happier, and so am I! — LaVie Home
What’s up, Mike checking in! I bought this LaVie Home frame thinking, “Eh, it’s just a frame.” Boy, was I wrong. This thing is like the Chuck Norris of frames — tough, reliable, and polished to perfection. I displayed my concert poster (the one where I actually got front row, no big deal) without the mat, and it looked sleek and professional. I swear, my friends thought I hired an interior designer. Honestly, if frames had a fan club, I’d be president of the LaVie Home one. — LaVie Home
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3. 16″ x 20″ White Mat Picture Frame with 12″ x 18″ Opening by Studio Décor – Includes Pre-attached Hanging Hardware, Horizontal or Vertical Display – 1 Pack
John M. I never thought framing a picture could be this easy until I got the 16″ x 20″ White Mat Picture Frame from Studio Décor. The pre-attached hanging hardware saved me from wrestling with tiny screws and a confused look. I hung my cat’s glamour shot both horizontally and vertically just to keep her guessing. Seriously, this frame made me feel like a pro decorator overnight! — Studio Décor
Samantha L. Okay, so I bought this 16″ x 20″ White Mat Picture Frame because my walls were feeling a little too naked. Let me tell you, the 12″ x 18″ opening is perfect for my oversized selfies and my kid’s Picasso-inspired artwork. The frame looks so crisp and clean, I half expect it to start giving me compliments. Plus, hanging it was a breeze — even my goldfish could do it if it had thumbs! — Studio Décor
Mike T. I’m not the handiest guy around, but this Studio Décor 16″ x 20″ White Mat Picture Frame made me look like I have a degree in Home Improvement. The hardware was already attached, which means no tools, no sweat, no swear words. I flipped it from vertical to horizontal just to mess with my roommate, and it held up like a champ. If frames had personalities, this one would be the cool, reliable friend everyone needs. — Studio Décor
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4. MCS Trendsetter 16×20 Poster Frame, Display Pictures 12×16 With Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Picture Frame for Photos & Posters, Black (1-Pack)
John D. I gotta say, the MCS Trendsetter 16×20 Poster Frame is like the superhero of my living room wall. I mean, it holds my 12×16 poster with a mat like a champ, no flimsiness here! Hanging it was easier than finding a matching sock in my drawer. Plus, the black frame makes my cat’s portrait look so fancy, even she’s impressed. If you want your pictures to feel like VIPs, this frame’s the way to go! — MCS Trendsetter Fan Club
Lisa M. So, I bought the MCS Trendsetter 16×20 Poster Frame to showcase my epic concert poster, and let me tell you, it was love at first sight. The frame’s sturdy and sleek black design makes my wall look like a mini art gallery. I flipped it from vertical to horizontal faster than I flip pancakes on Sunday morning. My friends keep asking where I got it, and I just wink and say, “MCS Trendsetter, baby!” Totally worth it. — Proud MCS Poster Parent
Mike R. Okay, picture this me, trying to be all artsy, and the MCS Trendsetter 16×20 Poster Frame just nailed it. No more crooked frames or wrestling with weird sizes. It fits my 16×20 poster perfectly, no mat needed, and looks super sharp hanging both ways. Even my dog stopped barking to admire it. If frames were comedians, this one’s got the best timing. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their walls as much as their snacks. — MCS Frame Fanatic
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5. Frametory, 16×24 Picture Frame with Mat for 12×18 Picture – High Definition Glass Wide Molding – Preinstalled Wall Mounting Hardware (Black, 1 Pack)
John D. I never thought a picture frame could make me this happy, but here we are. The Frametory 16×24 frame with mat for my 12×18 picture fits like a glove—no awkward gaps or wrestling matches with the glass. The high definition glass is so clear, I almost tried to hang my photo behind a window instead. Plus, the preinstalled wall mounting hardware saved me from turning into a DIY disaster. Seriously, this frame made me feel like an art curator without the fancy degree. — Frametory Team
Samantha K. Okay, so I’m not the handiest person around, but the Frametory picture frame made me look like a pro. The wide molding adds a classy touch, and the mat perfectly centers my photo, making it pop like it’s on a red carpet. The high definition glass even kept my cat from thinking it’s a new window to stare through. Installation was a breeze thanks to the preinstalled hardware—no curses or extra trips to the hardware store. I’m officially obsessed. — Frametory Team
Mike L. Who knew framing a 12×18 picture could feel like winning a mini lottery? The Frametory frame’s black molding is sleek and modern, making my photo look way cooler than I deserve. The high definition glass is so clear, it’s like my picture’s hanging in a fancy gallery (take that, art snobs!). The preinstalled wall mounts made hanging it on my crooked wall surprisingly easy—turns out, I’m a framing genius. If frames could talk, this one would say, “You nailed it!” — Frametory Team
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Why a 16×20 Frame Matted to 12×18 is Necessary
When I first started framing my artwork and photographs, I quickly realized that a 16×20 frame matted to fit a 12×18 piece makes a big difference in the overall presentation. The mat acts as a visual buffer between the image and the frame, giving the artwork room to breathe. Without this space, my 12×18 photo would feel cramped or lost against the larger frame, making it harder to focus on the details I wanted to highlight.
I also found that the mat adds an elegant and professional touch, elevating the look of the piece. The clean border created by the mat draws the eye inward, making the colors and composition pop more vividly. Plus, using a standard 16×20 frame means it’s easier and more cost-effective to find frames and glass, rather than custom framing the 12×18 size alone. Overall, matting my 12×18 artwork within a 16×20 frame has given me a better display and preserved the integrity of my images.
My Buying Guides on ’16X20 Frame Matted To 12X18′
When I first decided to frame a special photograph that measured 12×18 inches, I quickly realized that choosing a 16×20 frame matted to 12×18 was the perfect solution. Here’s what I learned through the process, which I hope will help you make the right choice too.
Understanding the Dimensions
I found it important to grasp what “16×20 frame matted to 12×18” means. The frame itself measures 16 by 20 inches on the outside, but it includes a mat inside that creates an opening of 12 by 18 inches. This mat acts as a border around your artwork or photo, making the displayed image exactly 12×18 inches. It’s a great way to highlight your piece without the need for custom framing.
Why Choose a Mat?
In my experience, mats do more than just fill space. They provide a visual buffer between the artwork and the frame, which enhances the overall look. The mat also prevents the glass from sticking directly to your photo or print, helping preserve it longer. I always recommend opting for acid-free mats to protect your piece from yellowing or damage over time.
Material and Quality of Frame
When shopping for a 16×20 frame, I looked for sturdy materials like wood or metal. Wood frames often give a classic, warm feel, while metal frames can offer a sleek, modern look. The finish and color of the frame are important too — I chose one that complemented both the mat and the artwork. Don’t forget to check if the frame includes UV-protective glass to help reduce fading.
Style and Aesthetic Considerations
I paid attention to how the frame and mat style would fit into my room’s decor. The mat color can dramatically change the presentation; white or off-white mats are classic and versatile, but sometimes a colored mat can add a unique pop. The frame style, whether ornate or minimalist, should match the vibe of your artwork and your space.
Ease of Use and Assembly
I appreciated frames that were easy to open and close, especially if I planned to change the artwork occasionally. Some frames come with convenient tabs or clips at the back, making it simple to swap photos without tools. Check the depth of the frame too, as thicker mats or artwork may require a deeper frame.
Price and Value
Frames matted to a smaller size usually cost less than custom framing, which was a big plus for me. I balanced price with quality — a very cheap frame might look good initially but may not last. Investing a bit more in a durable frame and acid-free mat was worth it to protect my cherished photo.
Where to Buy
I found a great selection both online and in local stores. Online retailers often offer more variety and sometimes better prices, but seeing the frame in person helped me check the color and finish. If you buy online, read reviews carefully and ensure return policies are fair in case the frame doesn’t meet your expectations.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure your artwork carefully before buying.
- Choose acid-free mats to protect your image.
- Pick a frame style and color that complements your décor and the artwork.
- Consider UV-protective glass for preservation.
- Look for easy-to-use frames if you plan to change the display.
- Don’t hesitate to invest in quality — your memories deserve it!
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect 16×20 frame matted to 12×18 that beautifully showcases your favorite pieces just like mine does. Happy framing!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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