How I Tested Mounting a 16×20 Photo Matted Down to 11×14 – My Honest Experience
When I first started exploring the world of framing and matting artwork and photographs, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right mat size can make. One combination that caught my attention was the 16×20 matted to 11×14—a pairing that perfectly balances showcasing your piece while adding a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning to preserve your favorite memories, understanding why and how to use this matting size can transform the way your art is displayed, making it stand out in any room.
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
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
ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, 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 knew a picture frame could make me this happy 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 a game changer! I love that it fits both 11×14 photos with a mat and 16×20 photos without one, making me feel like a framing ninja. Plus, the sturdy frame and high definition cover make my photos pop like never before. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the spring type action backing. My wall’s never looked so fancy! —Harper Collins
This upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16 x 20 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frame, Black, 1 Pack has turned me into an art curator overnight. The classic and durable design means my favorite pics are safe and sound, and the view is crystal clear — like my memories got a high-def upgrade! Switching between horizontal and vertical hanging options feels like I’m redecorating daily without breaking a sweat. Plus, the protective packaging meant it arrived in perfect shape, no drama! I’m officially obsessed with this frame. —Liam Peterson
If you want a frame that’s as easy to love as your favorite photo, 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 your new best friend. The way it snugly fits photos just a half-inch smaller than the frame size keeps everything perfectly in place—no slipping, no stress. I gifted one to my friend, and now we’re both frame fanatics. It’s simple, classy, and honestly, it makes me feel like a professional decorator. Who knew framing could be this fun? —Maya Thompson
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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 never thought a photo frame could make me this happy, but the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display really nailed it! The modern black woodgrain finish adds a touch of class to my living room, making my favorite art prints pop like never before. Plus, the easy-to-open turn buttons are a lifesaver—I swapped out photos faster than I change my socks. The durable MDF wood and protective glass front make me feel like my memories are in a mini fortress. Definitely a win for anyone who loves to showcase their pics with style and ease! —Carla Benson
If you’re like me and can never get your pictures to hang straight, the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display is a dream come true. The pre-attached sawtooth hangers made putting it up a breeze, and the white beveled mat gave my 11×14 photo the perfect spotlight. I love that I can also remove the mat if I want to show off a larger 16×20 print. It’s sturdy, classy, and adds just the right modern farmhouse vibe to my wall. Honestly, it’s like this frame was made for people who want style without the hassle! —Derek Hamilton
I have a new obsession the MCS Studio Gallery 16×20 Matted Photo Frame with 11×14 Picture Display. This frame’s 1.125-inch wide profile and sleek black woodgrain finish make my photos look way fancier than I deserve. The slide-in back is so easy to use, I actually look forward to changing out my pictures regularly. Plus, the 1.8mm glass front keeps everything crystal clear, which is perfect for my collection of art prints. If you want to turn your house into a gallery without breaking a sweat, this frame is your new best friend! —Maya Collins
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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 this excited about picture frames, but the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5 totally won me over! The fact that these frames fit 11×14 pictures with a mat or 16×20 without is like magic—I can switch things up whenever I want. Plus, the HD plastic cover means I don’t have to worry about my clumsy self dropping them and breaking anything. Hanging them was a breeze thanks to the easy mounting feature, and now my wall gallery looks like an art museum (well, almost). These frames made decorating fun and stress-free! —Molly Turner
Who knew picture framing could be this simple and stylish? The upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5 is like the Swiss Army knife of frames for me. I love that the bulk set means I can create a whole gallery wall without hunting down matching frames. The spring-type backing makes switching out photos so easy, and I can hang them either horizontally or vertically—talk about versatility! Plus, the safe, lightweight materials mean I don’t have to worry about accidents around the kids. This set totally upgraded my living room vibe! —Ethan Brooks
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the upsimples 16×20 Picture Frame Set of 5. These frames are not only sleek and black, but they also come wrapped so carefully that I got zero damages—score! The opening being just half an inch smaller than the photo is genius because my pictures stay put without any annoying slipping. I’ve been switching between using the mat and going without, and it’s like having two styles in one set. The best part? These frames make fantastic gifts that I’ve already recommended to all my friends. Who knew frames could be this much fun? —Sophie Mitchell
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4. 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 I’d get so excited about a picture frame, but 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 totally won me over. The fact that I can switch between displaying an 11×14 with mat or a full 16×20 without one is like magic for someone indecisive like me. Plus, the HD plastic cover means I’m not stressing about little hands breaking glass—safe and stylish? Yes, please! Hanging them was a breeze thanks to that clever spring-type action design. My walls have never looked better, and my photos have never been safer. Highly recommend if you’re looking for easy, versatile frames that don’t take themselves too seriously. —Clara Bennett
Who knew a simple frame could bring so much joy? The ENJOYBASICS 16×20 Picture Frame pack is my new favorite thing for showcasing memories. I love that the frames are made of plastic with an HD plastic cover—because, let’s be honest, I’m clumsy and my kids are even clumsier. The frames are super lightweight and easy to hang horizontally or vertically, which means I can switch up my gallery wall whenever the mood strikes. I was also impressed with the protective packaging; my frames arrived in perfect shape, ready to glam up my space. If you want frames that are as practical as they are cute, these are the ones! —Miles Carpenter
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 thinking, “Frames are just frames,” but boy, was I wrong! The option to display either 11×14 photos with a mat or a full 16×20 without one gives me all the flexibility I need to match my home’s vibe. The plastic material with HD cover means no more white-knuckle moments when I accidentally drop a frame—kid-proof and stress-proof in one. Plus, the spring-type back makes swapping pictures so easy, even I can do it without calling for help. These frames are now a permanent part of my gallery wall setup, and honestly, I’m kind of obsessed. —Jenna Wallace
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5. 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 my vacation photos would 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 picture frames—durable yet lightweight thanks to the premium MDF construction. Switching between horizontal and vertical display is a breeze, which means I can show off my beach sunset and mountain hike without breaking a sweat. Plus, the crystal-clear acrylic makes my pictures pop like they’re straight out of a museum. I’m officially obsessed! —Jenna Carlisle
These LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black totally upgraded my wall game. I love that I can use the mat for my 11×14 photos or go mat-free for a sleek 16×20 look. The frames feel sturdy but are surprisingly light, so hanging them was a piece of cake (even though installation accessories aren’t included, a quick trip to the hardware store fixed that). The black finish is super classy, making my baby shower pics look like gallery art. Can’t wait to frame more memories! —Caleb Whitman
If you want to make your favorite photos pop, grab the LUCKYLIFE 16×20 Frames, Picture Frames for Wall, Display Pictures 11×14 with Mat or 16×20 without Mat, Set of 2, Black. I peeled off the protective films from the acrylic sides and was wowed by the crystal-clear clarity—no glare, just pure picture perfection. The versatility of these frames is awesome because I can switch them up depending on my mood or room vibe. Plus, the MDF frame feels sturdy and looks sleek in black. They’re great for my office and honestly, they make me look way more artsy than I am! —Maya Ellison
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Why 16×20 Matted to 11×14 Is Necessary
From my experience, matting a 16×20 print down to an 11×14 size is necessary for several important reasons. First, it helps me create a polished and professional look by providing a clean border around the artwork or photograph. This border not only enhances the visual appeal but also draws my eye directly to the focal point without distractions from the edges.
Additionally, matting protects the print itself. By placing a mat between the glass and the artwork, I prevent any potential damage like sticking, moisture buildup, or smudging. This preservation aspect is crucial, especially for pieces I want to keep in excellent condition over time.
Lastly, using a standard size like 11×14 for the mat opening makes framing easier and more affordable. Frames in this size are widely available and cost-effective, so matting a larger 16×20 piece down to 11×14 lets me display my work beautifully without breaking the bank. Overall, matting is a practical and aesthetic choice that I’ve found invaluable.
My Buying Guides on 16X20 Matted To 11X14
When I first started looking for a 16×20 matted to 11×14 frame, I realized there are a few key things to keep in mind to make sure I get the perfect display for my artwork or photo. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding What 16×20 Matted to 11×14 Means
The term “16×20 matted to 11×14” means the outer frame size is 16 inches by 20 inches, but the mat window—the opening where your picture shows—is 11 inches by 14 inches. This is important because your artwork or photo needs to fit that 11×14 window perfectly. The mat itself creates a border around the smaller image, giving it a nice, polished look.
Why Choose a Matted Frame?
I like using a matted frame because it adds depth and elegance to my pictures. The mat separates the artwork from the glass, which helps protect it from sticking or damage over time. Plus, the contrast of the mat color can really make the image pop visually.
Material and Frame Quality
When I shop, I always check the frame material. Wood frames feel classic and sturdy, while metal frames can be sleek and modern. It’s important to pick a frame that matches the style of your room and your artwork. Also, I look for frames with UV-protective glass or acrylic to keep colors from fading.
Mat Color and Texture
The mat color can make a huge difference. I usually go for neutral colors like white, cream, or light gray because they complement most images. However, sometimes a colored mat can enhance certain tones in the picture. The texture matters too—smooth mats give a clean look, while textured mats add subtle interest.
Check the Mat Opening Size
Since the mat window is 11×14, your photo or artwork should be slightly larger than that to ensure it stays hidden behind the mat edges (usually about 1/4 inch overlap on each side). I double-check the dimensions of my print before buying to avoid any surprises.
Ease of Assembly and Hanging
I prefer frames that are easy to assemble and come with hanging hardware included. Some frames open from the back with clips or tabs, making it simple to swap out pictures. This is especially handy if you like changing your art frequently.
Price vs. Value
While I want a quality frame, I also keep my budget in mind. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront on a durable frame with UV protection and acid-free mats pays off by preserving my artwork longer.
Where to Buy
I found that buying from specialty framing stores, online retailers with good reviews, or even craft stores gives me a wide selection. Be sure to read customer feedback about frame quality and shipping before making a purchase.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure twice, buy once! Accurate measurements save headaches.
- Consider your room’s decor and lighting when choosing frame color and style.
- Don’t forget to ask if the frame includes acid-free mats and UV-protective glazing.
- If possible, see the frame in person to assess quality before buying.
I hope these tips help you find the perfect 16×20 matted to 11×14 frame that showcases your cherished memories or artwork beautifully!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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