Framing Your Artwork: Matting a 16x20 Print to Fit an 8.5x11 Frame
Finding the perfect frame for your artwork can be tricky, especially when dealing with size discrepancies. Many artists and photographers grapple with the challenge of fitting a larger print, like a 16x20 inch piece, into a smaller, readily available frame size such as 8.5x11 inches. This often involves using a mat board to create a visually appealing and properly sized presentation. Let's explore how to effectively mat a 16x20 print to fit an 8.5x11 inch frame.
This isn't directly possible without significant cropping or other modifications to the artwork. An 8.5x11 inch frame is significantly smaller than a 16x20 inch print. Trying to force a 16x20 print into an 8.5x11 frame without matting would result in damage to the print and the frame. Matting, however, allows for a beautiful and professional presentation.
Why Matting Is Necessary
Matting serves several crucial purposes:
- Size Adjustment: Matting provides the necessary border to reduce the print's overall size to fit within the frame.
- Protection: The mat board creates a protective barrier between the artwork and the glass or acrylic of the frame, preventing direct contact and potential damage.
- Visual Enhancement: A well-chosen mat can dramatically enhance the artwork's presentation, providing a clean and professional look. It allows the artwork to "breathe" and draws the viewer's eye directly to the piece.
Is it Possible to Mat a 16x20 to fit an 8.5x11 Frame?
While you can't fit a 16x20 print uncropped into an 8.5x11 frame, even with matting, you can fit a cropped version. This would involve significantly reducing the size of your original image. You would need to crop the 16x20 print to approximately 8.5x11 inches, or a similar aspect ratio that will properly fit within the frame’s dimensions.
What are the Different Matting Options?
Several matting options exist, offering choices in color, material, and style:
- Color: Mat boards come in a vast array of colors, enabling you to select a hue that complements your artwork. Neutral colors like white, ivory, or black are popular choices, but bolder colors can add a unique flair.
- Material: Acid-free mat boards are crucial for protecting your artwork from yellowing and deterioration over time. Choose archival-quality materials for long-term preservation.
- Style: The style of matting you choose can significantly impact the final presentation. A single mat provides a simple border. Multiple mats can create more complex and visually interesting effects.
How Much of the 16x20 Print Will Be Visible?
With significant cropping to fit an 8.5x11 frame, a large portion of the original 16x20 print will be lost. The exact amount depends on how you crop the image. The goal is to select the most impactful portion of the original print to showcase within the smaller frame.
What is the Best Way to Crop a 16x20 Print for an 8.5x11 Frame?
The best way to crop is dependent on your image's content and your artistic preferences. Consider the focal point and composition of the original print. Use photo editing software to experiment with different cropping options to determine the most visually appealing result. High-quality image editing software offers precision tools for carefully cropping your image.
In conclusion, while directly fitting a 16x20 print into an 8.5x11 frame without alteration is impossible, intelligent cropping and matting techniques can lead to a beautifully presented final product. Remember to prioritize archival-quality materials to ensure your artwork's longevity and choose a mat that complements the overall aesthetic.
