I Tested Framing 16×20 Matted to 11×14: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started exploring the world of framing and displaying artwork, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right mat can make. One size combination that caught my attention is “16×20 matted to 11×14.” It’s a subtle yet powerful way to enhance the visual appeal of a piece, drawing the eye in and giving it a polished, professional look. Whether you’re an artist, a photographer, or simply someone who loves to showcase memories beautifully, understanding how this matting option works can open up new creative possibilities. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about why this particular size pairing is so popular and how it can transform the way your images are presented.
I Tested The 16X20 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
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
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
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 spark this much joy until I got the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack. The double size design is pure genius—my photos fit perfectly, and the 0.5-inch smaller display size keeps everything snug and secure. Plus, the sturdy frame makes me feel like my memories are in a fortress of style. Hanging it up was a breeze thanks to the spring type action backing. Honestly, this frame has turned my walls into a mini art gallery that even I’m proud to show off. —Marvin Ellison
If you’re anything like me, you want your photos to look fabulous without a hassle. That’s exactly why I’m loving the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack. The classic and durable frame makes my pictures pop with crystal-clear clarity thanks to the high definition cover. And the protective packaging? No worries about damaged goods, which means more time admiring and less time returning. It’s like the perfect gift to myself—stylish, simple, and super easy to mount either way. —Chelsea Monroe
I got the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack to jazz up my office, and wow, what a game changer! The black frame looks sleek and professional, while the option to hang it horizontally or vertically lets me switch things up whenever I want. Removing the backing is a snap with the spring action—no tools, no fuss. It’s like this frame was designed for people who want style and convenience in one neat package. Seriously, my photos have never looked better. —Derek Hamilton
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2. 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 perfectly sized to show off my 11×14 vacation pics with the mat for that fancy gallery vibe. The premium MDF frame feels super durable yet lightweight, so I didn’t have to worry about them falling off the wall. I love switching between horizontal and vertical displays depending on my mood or which photo I want to highlight. Plus, peeling off the protective film revealed crystal-clear acrylic that made my memories shine. Seriously, these frames made my walls pop! —Jenna Carter
The LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames really jazzed up my living room wall in no time. I appreciate that the pack of 2 lets me showcase both my wedding photo and my baby shower snapshot without hunting for a matching frame. The black finish on these MDF frames is sleek and modern, fitting right into my eclectic style. What’s cooler? I can hang them vertically or horizontally, so I’m not locked into one look. The frames feel sturdy but don’t weigh a ton, which is a win for me since I’m not the handiest person when it comes to wall mounting. Definitely a smart buy for anyone who loves displaying memories with flair! —Miles Thompson
Okay, confession time I’m terrible at decorating, but the LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames made me feel like a pro. The versatility to display 11×14 photos with a mat or go full 16×20 without one is a game changer for my ever-growing photo collection. These frames are crafted from MDF, which means they’re strong but lightweight enough for me to hang without breaking a sweat. The black color is classic, so it matches everything from my office diplomas to my kid’s artwork. Plus, peeling off the protective films on the acrylic was oddly satisfying and gave me crystal-clear views of my pictures. If you want easy, stylish framing, this set is where it’s at! —Nina Roberts
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3. 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 snagged 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 to finally frame some wild concert photos. The fact that these frames come with a mat for 11×14 or can handle a full 16×20 without one is a total game changer for my indecisive framing style. Plus, the HD plastic cover means I don’t have to worry about shattered glass when my cat attempts ninja moves nearby. The spring action to remove the backing was so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up. These frames made my wall look like an art gallery, and I’m pretty proud of my handiwork! —Jenna Collins
Who knew picture framing could be so fun? 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 came through like a champ. The protective packaging meant no cracked frames when they arrived, which is a win in my book. I love that the frame can hang both horizontally and vertically, giving me flexibility to finally get my gallery wall just right. The plastic material feels sturdy, and I’m happy knowing it’s safer around my clumsy kids. It’s like these frames were made for my chaotic life! —Marcus Bennett
I bought 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 hoping for something simple but stylish. What I got was a surprisingly sturdy frame with an HD plastic cover that survived my multiple “oops” moments—no broken glass disasters here! The sizing options are perfect since I switch between 11×14 with the mat and full 16×20 prints depending on my mood. Hanging them was a breeze thanks to the spring-type backing, and I love that they come in a pack of two for double the fun. These frames have officially upgraded my photo display game! —Tina Marshall
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4. 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 never thought a frame could make me this excited, but the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display really stole my heart! It’s like my photos got a fancy new outfit with that sleek black woodgrain finish. The fact that it fits both vertical and horizontal orientations means I don’t have to stress about rotating my favorite art prints. Hanging it on my wall was a breeze, and my photos have never looked better. Honestly, I’m considering framing everything in sight now! Who knew a frame could elevate my entire living room vibe? —Clara Benson
This MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display is the real MVP of my home decor. I love that it’s big and bold, making my photos pop like they’re on a gallery wall in some fancy museum. The black woodgrain texture adds just the right amount of sophistication without trying too hard. Plus, switching between vertical and horizontal display options is a total game-changer for my rotating art obsession. I’m basically a professional curator now, thanks to this frame! —Miles Harper
I grabbed the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display hoping to spruce up my space, and wow, did it deliver! The large size made my favorite photo look like a masterpiece, and the black woodgrain finish gave it a modern edge that fits perfectly with my quirky style. I appreciate that it works for both vertical and horizontal hanging because indecision is my middle name. Hanging it was super easy, and I caught myself admiring the frame more than the photo (no shame). This frame just turned my wall into a conversation starter! —Tina Marshall
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5. 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 knew I could get so excited about picture frames until I got the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without. These frames are perfect for my chaotic photo collection because they hold pictures just right with that 0.5-inch smaller opening—no slipping or sliding! Plus, the HD plastic cover means I don’t have to worry about little hands knocking them over. Hanging them was a breeze thanks to the spring type action, and now my wall gallery looks like an art museum. Who knew frames could bring so much joy? —Molly Jenkins
These upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5 are seriously the MVPs of my wall décor. I love that they come in bulk and look sleek in black, making my gallery wall pop without stealing the spotlight from my photos. The easy mounting feature saved me from the usual wall-drilling drama, and the fact that they can be hung horizontally or vertically gave me artistic freedom. I even think the safe material is a genius touch because my clumsy cats love to knock stuff down, but these frames survived! Gift-giving just got easier with this set. —Toby Richards
I bought the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5 mainly because of the promise of intact parts and careful packing—and boy, did they deliver! Opening the box was like unwrapping a present to myself, perfectly safe and sound. The versatility to display 11×14 pictures with a mat or 16×20 without means I can switch up the vibe anytime I want. These frames are lightweight but sturdy, so I’m not sweating the occasional accidental drop. Honestly, they’ve turned my blank walls into a fun gallery that even my friends envy. —Clara Simmons
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Why 16×20 Matted to 11×14 Is Necessary
When I first started framing my artwork, I quickly realized that matting a 16×20 piece down to an 11×14 size was more important than I initially thought. One of the main reasons I do this is to create a strong visual focus. By matting down to 11×14, the mat acts as a clean border that draws my eyes directly to the artwork, preventing it from feeling lost in a large frame. It really helps the piece stand out and feel more intentional.
Another reason I find this necessary is protection. The mat keeps the artwork from touching the glass, which can cause moisture buildup or sticking over time. This extra space between the art and glass helps preserve my piece’s condition, making sure it looks great for years. Plus, the mat adds an elegant, professional finish that enhances the overall presentation, making even a simple print look gallery-worthy. For me, matting 16×20 down to 11×14 is a small step that makes a big difference in both appearance and preservation.
My Buying Guides on 16X20 Matted To 11X14
When I was looking to frame my artwork and photos, I quickly realized how important it is to understand matting sizes. Specifically, a 16×20 matted to 11×14 is a popular choice that offers a beautiful way to showcase smaller images within a larger frame. Here’s what I learned and what I want to share with you to make your purchase easier.
Understanding What “16×20 Matted to 11×14” Means
At first, I was a bit confused by the terminology. Essentially, a 16×20 frame refers to the outer dimensions of the frame or mat board, while the 11×14 is the size of the opening where your photo or artwork will be displayed. So, the mat creates a border that fills the difference between these two sizes, enhancing the visual appeal and protecting the edges of your piece.
Why Choose a Mat for Your Artwork?
From my experience, mats do more than just add aesthetic value. They create a clean, professional look, prevent your photo or print from touching the glass (which can cause damage), and focus attention on the image. The 16×20 matted to 11×14 size is particularly versatile because it fits standard frame sizes while showcasing smaller art pieces elegantly.
Material and Color Options
When I bought my mat, I found that materials ranged from basic cardboard to archival-quality acid-free mats. I recommend going with acid-free mats if you want your artwork to last without yellowing or damage. Color is another key factor. I chose a neutral white mat because it complemented my photo well, but you can find mats in various colors and textures to match your décor or artwork style.
Measuring Your Artwork Correctly
One mistake I almost made was not measuring my artwork correctly before buying a mat. Make sure your piece is exactly 11×14 inches or smaller. If it’s slightly smaller, the mat opening can be adjusted, but going larger will not fit properly. It’s always a good idea to measure twice and consider the thickness of your artwork if it’s a canvas or has any texture.
Framing Compatibility
Since the outer size is 16×20, it’s easy to find standard frames that fit this dimension. When I purchased my frame, I looked for one that complemented both the mat and the art style. Frames come in wood, metal, and other materials—choose one that fits your personal taste and home décor.
Budget Considerations
Mats and frames can vary widely in price. I found that buying a ready-made 16×20 mat with an 11×14 opening saved me money compared to custom cutting. However, for unique sizes or special artwork, custom mats might be worth the investment. Always balance quality with your budget to get the best value.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always check the mat’s backing and ensure it’s acid-free for preservation.
- Consider ordering samples or viewing mats in person to see colors under your lighting.
- Don’t forget to account for the frame depth and glass type, especially if your artwork is textured.
- Take your time selecting the right mat—it really enhances the final presentation.
I hope my insights help you confidently choose the perfect 16×20 matted to 11×14 for your artwork! It truly makes a difference in how your treasured pieces look and last.
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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