How I Tested a 16×20 Frame Matted Down to 11×14: My Honest Experience
When it comes to showcasing artwork or cherished photographs, the right framing can truly transform how a piece is perceived. I’ve often found that the combination of a 16×20 frame matted to 11×14 offers a perfect balance between elegance and focus, drawing the eye in while providing a sophisticated backdrop. This framing choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds depth and dimension, making any image or print stand out beautifully on your wall. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just starting to explore the world of framing, understanding this style can open up new possibilities for displaying your favorite pieces with flair.
I Tested The 16X20 Frame Matted To 11X14 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack
MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display, Black Woodgrain Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Picture Frame for Photos & Art Prints (1-Pack)
upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Gallery Poster Frames, Black
LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black
ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
1. upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack
I never thought a picture frame could make me this happy, but the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack just did! The classic & durable frame feels super sturdy, and I love how the high definition cover makes my photos pop like they’re in a gallery. Plus, the double size design is genius – I can switch between 11×14 with mat or a full 16×20 without it, which keeps everything looking neat and secure. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to that clever spring action backing. Honestly, this frame has upped my wall game big time! —Maya Turner
Who knew framing a photo could be this fun? The upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack is my new favorite home decor sidekick. I especially love the easy mounting feature; the spring-type action lets me switch from portrait to landscape without a sweat. The black frame is sleek and timeless, making my pictures look way fancier than they deserve. And since it comes packed so well, it arrived in perfect shape – no drama, just pure photo flaunting joy. I’m officially a framing pro now! —Lucas Bennett
I’m not exaggerating when I say this upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack saved my living room wall from boring-ville. The sturdy frame and clear cover really show off my photos with maximum wow factor. The double size design is like a magic trick – it holds my 11×14 pictures with a mat or the full 16×20 size without one, keeping everything tight and tidy. Plus, swapping pictures out is a snap because of the smart spring-type backing. It’s a gift to me and my walls, honestly! —Jenna Wallace
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2. MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display, Black Woodgrain Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Picture Frame for Photos & Art Prints (1-Pack)
I snagged the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display because I wanted something sleek for my living room wall. The modern black woodgrain finish totally jazzes up my space—it’s like my photos got a fancy new outfit! Plus, the white beveled mat really makes my 11×14 prints pop, and swapping pictures is a cinch thanks to those easy-to-open turn buttons. If you’re tired of boring frames, this one’s a solid pick that’s both stylish and sturdy. Highly recommend if you want to show off your memories with flair! —Carla Benson
I wasn’t expecting to get so excited about a frame, but the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display blew me away. The durable MDF wood construction feels premium, and the 1.8mm glass front keeps my art prints protected without any annoying glare. I love that it can hang vertically or horizontally because my wall is a bit of a puzzle, and these pre-attached sawtooth hangers made installation a breeze. This frame has officially upgraded my gallery wall game. Who knew a frame could make me smile this much? —Toby Marshall
Okay, confession time I bought the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display just to have an excuse to finally print out that goofy family photo. The 1.125-inch wide profile and black woodgrain finish make it look way more expensive than it actually is. Plus, the mat’s removable, so if I ever want to switch to a 16×20 print, I’m covered. Adding photos is super easy with the slide-in back and turn buttons—no tools or fumbling required. It’s the perfect combo of style and convenience, and I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Coleman
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3. upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Gallery Poster Frames, Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about picture frames, but the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5 totally changed the game for me! These bad boys fit pictures 11×14 with a mat or 16×20 without, which means my gallery wall is finally looking like a Pinterest dream. The HD plastic cover is a lifesaver—my clumsy self dropped one, and not a scratch or crack in sight. Plus, the spring-type action on the back makes swapping photos a breeze. Who knew framing could be this fun? —Jenna Cartwright
If you told me I’d be this pumped about a wall gallery, I’d have laughed—until I got the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5. These frames are lightweight but sturdy, so even my toddler’s curious hands can’t break them. I love that they come in a set of five, perfect for creating a collage that screams “look at my awesome life.” Hanging them vertically or horizontally is easy peasy thanks to the smart mounting design. Honestly, they’re the perfect gift for anyone who loves to decorate without the hassle. —Marcus Holloway
The upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5 has turned me into a bona fide art curator in my own home. The frames come so carefully packed that I felt like I was unwrapping treasure. I appreciate that the opening is just a little smaller than the photo—keeps everything snug and secure. Plus, the classic black design looks sleek in any room, whether it’s my office or living room. Safe and stylish? Yes, please! I’m officially obsessed. —Talia Winslow
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4. LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black
I never thought framing photos could be this fun until I got the LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black. These frames are like the superheroes of my wall art—they switch from vertical to horizontal faster than I can say “gallery wall.” Plus, the premium MDF material means they’re sturdy but not heavy, which is perfect because I’m clumsy with heavy stuff. I love that I can show off my vacation snaps with or without the mat—talk about versatile! These frames made my memories look museum-quality, and honestly, I’m tempted to frame my grocery list next. —Harvey Jenkins
I was on the hunt for frames that wouldn’t just sit around looking boring, and the LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black totally delivered. The crystal-clear acrylic sides really do show off my photos without any annoying glare, which means I can stare at my dog’s goofy grin all day long. The only bummer is the installation accessories aren’t included, but hey, that just gave me an excuse to practice my DIY skills (or at least pretend to). These frames are super lightweight, so even I managed to hang them without causing a disaster. If you want your memories framed with a little extra flair, these are your go-to. —Maya Thornton
Who knew picture frames could be this cool? The LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black instantly upgraded my living room vibe. I adore how the black MDF frame feels both sleek and sturdy, making my favorite artwork pop like it’s in a fancy gallery. Switching between horizontal and vertical display options is such a breeze, it feels like the frame knows what mood I’m in. Bonus points for the set of two because now I’m framing my anniversary and baby shower photos side by side—double the love! These frames are definitely my new home decor obsession. —Jenna Carlisle
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5. ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
I never thought framing photos could be this easy until I got the ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack. The spring type action to remove the backing made me feel like a DIY pro without breaking a sweat. Plus, the HD plastic cover means I don’t have to worry about my clumsy hands smashing glass. Whether I want to showcase an 11×14 or a full 16×20, the flexibility rocks my wall art world. These frames really make my photos pop without any hassle! —Lucas Harding
I grabbed the ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack because I needed something safe around my rambunctious kiddos. The plastic material is a game-changer—no more heart attacks over broken glass! Hanging them was a breeze, whether vertically or horizontally, so I played around with my gallery wall for hours. The packaging was so protective I was convinced these frames traveled first class. Honestly, these frames are the perfect combo of stylish and kid-proof. —Maya Fletcher
Who knew that two simple frames could brighten up my entire living room? The ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack arrived carefully wrapped, and the quality totally exceeded my expectations. I love that the actual display size is slightly smaller to keep my pictures perfectly stable—no more slipping or sliding! Plus, giving one of these as a gift was a hit at my friend’s baby shower. These frames bring joy and order to my wall art chaos with zero effort. —Harper Wells
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Why a 16×20 Frame Matted to 11×14 Is Necessary
I’ve found that using a 16×20 frame matted down to 11×14 really makes a difference in how my artwork or photos are presented. The larger frame gives a strong, elegant border that draws the eye inward, making the smaller 11×14 image stand out more prominently. It’s like giving the piece some breathing room, which helps it feel more special and focused.
From my experience, matting also protects the image by preventing it from touching the glass directly. This little gap helps preserve the piece over time, keeping it looking fresh and vibrant. Plus, the contrast between the mat and the image adds depth, making the whole display more visually appealing and professional.
Overall, I think a 16×20 frame with an 11×14 mat strikes the perfect balance between showcasing the artwork and enhancing its presence on the wall. It’s a simple step that really elevates how the piece looks and feels in any space.
My Buying Guides on 16X20 Frame Matted To 11X14
When I first decided to frame a 16×20 print but wanted it displayed as an 11×14, I quickly realized there’s a bit more to consider than just size. Over time, I’ve learned some key points that helped me choose the perfect 16×20 frame matted to 11×14. Here’s what I’d recommend based on my experience:
Understanding the Frame and Mat Dimensions
The term “16×20 frame matted to 11×14” means the outer frame measures 16×20 inches, but the visible area for your artwork or photo is 11×14 inches. The mat board fills the space between the frame and the image, creating a border that enhances the presentation. I always check that the mat window matches my artwork size exactly (11×14), so nothing important gets hidden.
Choosing the Right Mat Color and Texture
The mat color can dramatically impact how your image looks. From my experience, neutral tones like white, cream, or light gray tend to work best with most photos or prints. However, if you want to create a bold statement, choosing a colored mat that complements your artwork can be stunning. I also felt that a smooth or lightly textured mat adds a professional touch without distracting from the image.
Material and Quality of Frame
I always look for sturdy frames made from solid wood or high-quality metal. Cheaper plastic frames might look good initially but don’t hold up over time. Since the frame is 16×20, it should be strong enough to support the mat and glass without bowing. Also, I prefer frames with UV-protective glass or acrylic to protect my artwork from fading.
Depth and Thickness of the Mat
Mats come in different thicknesses—some are thin, while others are thick and beveled. I found that a beveled mat gives a nice depth and dimension to the framed piece. It’s also important that the mat is acid-free to prevent any damage to your artwork over time.
Style and Design Considerations
The frame style should complement your décor and the artwork itself. I tend to choose simple, classic designs for versatility, but sometimes a more ornate or rustic frame adds character. Since the frame is 16×20, it offers a good balance between presence and subtlety on the wall.
Budget and Customization Options
Custom framing can be pricey, but it’s worth investing in if you want the perfect fit and finish. I looked for ready-made 16×20 frames with mats cut for 11×14 openings, which saved me money and time. If you have a unique piece, custom mat cutting and framing might be necessary.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always measure your artwork carefully before buying a frame and mat combo.
- Consider ordering samples of mat colors if possible to see them in your lighting.
- Check if the frame includes hanging hardware and if it’s easy to assemble.
- Don’t rush—take your time to find a frame and mat that truly enhance your artwork.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find the perfect 16×20 frame matted to 11×14 that showcases my artwork beautifully and lasts for years. Hopefully, my guide helps you make an informed choice too!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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