I often get asked about framing prints – and where to find frames for the sometimes “odd” sizes of prints sold on the site. First, I’d quickly like to explain why some prints are the size they are, then give you a little advise from my experience framing prints. Please note – I’m no expert by any means – so consult your nearest framing expert before you do this on any super fancy prints (or give me a shout and I’ll do my best to help!). Pretty much all of the paper I buy is from the fine folks at French Paper, a sheet size they sell is 19″ x 25″ which is commonly used to print with bleeds and trim down to 18″ x 24″. Running a small shop, I usually cut everything by hand – hence they either stay the full sheet size – or are used to print two-up and cut in half for a final size of  12.5″ x 19″.

Now down to the fun stuff. I’ve done a bit of measuring for you – but you have a few options for framing a 19″ x 25″ print. Head to your nearest art supply, craft store or frame shop and check out what sizes they offer. You can usually find a 22″ x 28″ frame which is a good option for this size print. Center the print with 1.5″ all the way around. If you’re handy with an X-acto knife – you can cut a matte to size, but I’ve also found photo corners, or tacking it down the corners lightly with some rubber cement on top of the matte works and looks great as well.

The 12.5″ x 19″ size is a little more tricky – I’ve found a 19″ x 13″ frame that works pretty good with a piece of black matte behind the print – you barely notice the gap on left and right sides. Another option is to use a 18″ x 24″ frame. The print can be centered 2.5″ on the top/bottom, and 2.75″ on the left/right. Cut a matte or tack down the print on a solid sheet of board.

A few things I’ve learned – most chain craft stores overpriced frames but offer substantial discounts (usually once a week) – so check the circulars. You can usually find some CHEAP frames at a Goodwill, Salvation Army or Re-Store… clean up, repaint and you’re good to go. Pre-cut mattes as well as sheets of 32″ x 40″ is available at most art supply stores or frame shops. Solid core (same color all the way through) and acid free board will increase the cost. One last tip – I’ve scored boxes of scrap matte board from a local frame shop – usually the centers of a mattes they’ve cut. I’ve gotten some pretty crazy colors/materials along with standard black and white – so ask nicely – it’s always nice to have on hand.

Now that you know a few tips – go get those prints framed and on your favorite wall…