Picture Frame Sizes in Inches and Centimeters

Direct answer

Convert the width and height separately by multiplying each inch measurement by 2.54.

For example, a 5 x 7-inch frame converts to:

What does a picture frame size describe?

A frame size usually refers to the image, print, artwork, or opening that the frame is intended to hold. It may not describe the total outside dimensions of the finished frame.

A frame labeled 8 x 10 inches may have an opening intended for an 8 x 10-inch print, while the outer frame can be several inches larger because of its border, molding, mat, or mount.

Product descriptions should be checked carefully for:

• photo or artwork size;
• visible opening size;
• mat opening size;
• frame's outside dimensions;
• orientation and mounting method.

Common photo sizes in centimeters

Example: convert a 4 x 6-inch photo

Convert both dimensions using the exact factor:

A product may be labeled approximately 10 x 15 centimeters even though the exact conversion is 10.16 x 15.24 centimeters. Check actual dimensions when fit is important.

Example: convert an 8 x 10-inch frame

This size is not identical to every product labeled 20 x 25 centimeters. The difference may be small, but it can affect whether a print fits behind a fixed opening.

Frame size versus outside dimensions

The listed image size and the frame's outside dimensions should not be treated as the same measurement.

Suppose a frame holds an 8 x 10-inch photo and has a two-inch border on every side. The border adds four inches to the width and four inches to the height.

Actual frame construction can change these dimensions, so use the manufacturer's outside measurements for wall planning.

Understanding mat and mount measurements

A mat is the border placed between the artwork and the frame. A mat opening is often slightly smaller than the print so it overlaps the edges and keeps the image in place.

For example, an 8 x 10-inch print might use a mat opening that is slightly smaller than 8 x 10 inches. The outside mat may fit an 11 x 14-inch frame.

Convert each listed measurement separately and identify whether it refers to:

• the print;
• the visible opening;
• the outside mat;
• the frame opening;
• the total frame size.

Inch sizes and metric frame sizes are not always identical

Metric frame products may use convenient rounded sizes such as 10 x 15 centimeters, 20 x 25 centimeters, or 30 x 40 centimeters. These may be close to common inch formats without being exact conversions.

A 4 x 6-inch photo is exactly 10.16 x 15.24 centimeters. A frame labeled 10 x 15 centimeters may therefore be slightly smaller.

Small differences can be handled through trimming, matting, or choosing a frame with a slightly larger opening, but the appropriate option depends on the image and frame design.

Portrait and landscape orientation

A 5 x 7-inch frame and a 7 x 5-inch frame have the same dimensions but different orientations.

• Portrait orientation places the shorter dimension across the width and the longer dimension vertically.
• Landscape orientation places the longer dimension across the width and the shorter dimension vertically.

Converting the measurements does not change the orientation. A 5 x 7-inch portrait frame becomes a 12.7 x 17.78-centimeter portrait frame.

How to measure an existing frame

1. Remove the backing carefully if the frame design permits it.
2. Measure the internal opening where the artwork sits.
3. Measure the visible opening from the front.
4. Measure the outside width and height separately.
5. Record whether each value is in inches or centimeters.

Use the Inches to Centimeters Converter to convert each measurement individually.

Common mistakes

Converting only one side

Rectangular sizes contain two measurements. Convert both width and height.

Assuming the label gives outside dimensions

The label may refer to the print or opening rather than the total frame.

Assuming a rounded metric size is exact

A 10 x 15-centimeter frame is close to 4 x 6 inches but is not an exact equivalent.

Changing the dimension order accidentally

Keep width and height in the same order when converting.

Related inches to centimeters guides

Frequently asked questions