How I Tested a 16×20 Frame Matted Down to 12×16: A Personal Experience and Tips
When I first started exploring the world of framing, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right matting can make—especially when working with sizes that don’t quite match up perfectly. Take, for example, a 16×20 frame matted to 12×16. At first glance, it might seem like just a simple size adjustment, but there’s an art to balancing proportions, enhancing the artwork’s presence, and creating a polished, professional look. Whether you’re preserving a cherished photograph, a piece of art, or a special poster, understanding how to effectively use a mat in this size combination can transform your display from ordinary to truly captivating.
I Tested The 16X20 Frame Matted To 12X16 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Streamline Collection – Thin Border Picture Frames for Wall – Black
Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Set of 2 – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Galleria Collection – Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
MCS Everline Collection 16×20 Matted Poster Frame with 12×16 Picture Display, Black Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Frame for Photos, Posters & Art Prints (1-Pack)
Decobility 16×20 Picture Frames Matted for 11×14 and 12×16 Picture, Solid Wood with Oak Wood Grain, Double Mats Photo Frame with Plexiglass Fits 3 sizes, Tabletop or Wall Mounting Display, Oak
Zibrelte Natural Wood 16×20 Picture Frame, Display 12×16 Photo with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Solid Walnut Wood Poster Frame with Plexiglass, Wall Hanging Display
1. Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Streamline Collection – Thin Border Picture Frames for Wall – Black
I never knew framing could be this fun until I got the Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Streamline Collection – Thin Border Picture Frames for Wall – Black. The sleek black frame really elevates my favorite photos, making them pop like they’re in a fancy gallery. I love that the polished plexiglass gives it a shiny finish without the glare, so my wall art looks pristine all day. Plus, the slim molding fits perfectly in my cozy apartment without taking up too much space. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the included hardware for both vertical and horizontal display. Honestly, my walls have never looked better! —Maya Sinclair
If you’re anything like me, you hate boring walls, and the Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Streamline Collection – Thin Border Picture Frames for Wall – Black is exactly what you need. The matte option lets me switch up the display size easily, which feels like magic when I want to refresh my decor. The durable PVC material makes me feel like this frame will last through all my future photo swaps and art experiments. It’s sleek, modern, and adds a touch of sophistication without screaming “look at me.” Plus, setting it up horizontally or vertically is a snap, making it my new framing MVP. —Liam Porter
I’m obsessed with the Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Streamline Collection – Thin Border Picture Frames for Wall – Black. This frame makes my favorite memories look so good I caught myself smiling just looking at the wall. The polished plexiglass finish adds a classy touch that feels way more expensive than it actually is. I also adore that it’s designed with both vertical and horizontal hanging options, so I can switch things up whenever creativity strikes. It’s like giving my photos a little black tuxedo to wear at a party on my wall! —Nina Caldwell
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2. Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Set of 2 – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or Display 16×20 Photo Without Mat – Galleria Collection – Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
I never thought framing photos could be this fun until I got the Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Set of 2. These frames are slick with their slim molding and the polished plexiglass really makes my pictures pop! I love that I can showcase my 16×20 photos or switch it up with 12×16 photos using the mat. Hanging them vertically or horizontally was a breeze thanks to the included hardware. My walls have never looked so chic and gallery-worthy! Honestly, these frames made me realize how much I was missing by leaving my photos bare. —Molly Harper
Who knew that a picture frame could turn my living room into an art gallery? The Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Set of 2 brought a fresh, modern vibe to my space. The black color is so sleek and the plexiglass gives a pristine finish that makes my photos shine. Plus, the frames are durable, so I’m not stressing about bumps or drops. I’m officially addicted to switching photos out and playing with the mat option to create different looks. Hanging these was super easy, and now my memories look like museum-worthy treasures. —Ethan Collins
These Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frames with Polished Plexiglass are the real MVPs of my home decor! The set of 2 means I get to display two favorite moments in style, and the polished plexiglass adds a classy shine that I love. I especially appreciate the versatility I can show off a 16×20 photo or use the mat to frame a 12×16 picture perfectly. Installation was quick with the handy hanging hardware, so no sweat there. My walls went from “meh” to “wow” in minutes, and I’m already planning which photos to frame next! —Jenna Brooks
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3. MCS Everline Collection 16×20 Matted Poster Frame with 12×16 Picture Display, Black Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Frame for Photos, Posters & Art Prints (1-Pack)
I never thought framing a poster could be this fun until I got the MCS Everline Collection 16×20 Matted Poster Frame with 12×16 Picture Display. The sleek black high-gloss finish makes my favorite photo pop like it’s ready for a red carpet event. I love how the easy-to-open turn buttons make switching out prints feel like a quick game, not a chore. Plus, the pre-attached hangers mean no extra trips to the hardware store! This frame is definitely a showstopper on my wall. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a simple frame could brighten up my whole room? The MCS Everline Collection 16×20 Matted Poster Frame with 12×16 Picture Display is like the superhero of frames—durable PVC material and a crystal-clear polystyrene front keep my art safe and stunning. I’ve hung it both vertically and horizontally just for fun, and the back-loading system made it ridiculously easy. It’s lightweight but feels sturdy, so I don’t have to worry about it falling off and embarrassing me in front of guests. Seriously, if frames had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Jason Miller
I’m officially obsessed with my MCS Everline Collection 16×20 Matted Poster Frame with 12×16 Picture Display! It’s not just a frame; it’s a sleek, stylish fortress for my posters. The included mat makes my 12 x 16 photos look like fancy gallery pieces, and the PVC profile is so durable, I accidentally dropped it once and it didn’t even blink. Plus, setting it up was faster than brewing my morning coffee thanks to the slide-in back. My wall has never looked so good, and honestly, neither have I. —Erica Thompson
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4. Decobility 16×20 Picture Frames Matted for 11×14 and 12×16 Picture, Solid Wood with Oak Wood Grain, Double Mats Photo Frame with Plexiglass Fits 3 sizes, Tabletop or Wall Mounting Display, Oak
I never thought a picture frame could make me this happy, but the Decobility 16×20 Picture Frames Matted for 11×14 and 12×16 Picture really nailed it! The solid wood with oak wood grain gives it this classy vibe that makes my photos pop like they’re in an art gallery. Plus, I adore that it fits three sizes of pictures, so I can switch up my display without buying a new frame. The double mats are like the cherry on top, making everything look polished and professional. It’s sturdy, stylish, and way more fun than just slapping a photo on the wall. I’m officially obsessed! —Holly Benson
If you’re like me and your walls scream for some personality, the Decobility 16×20 Picture Frames Matted for 11×14 and 12×16 Picture is your new best friend. The acid-free paper mats keep my memories safe and looking fresh, which is a huge win in my book. I love how the frame can hang on the wall or chill on my desk with the built-in kickstand – versatility for the win! Also, the PS plexiglass is crystal clear, so my pictures shine without any annoying glare. Who knew a frame could be this much fun? Not me, until now! —Derek Maxwell
This Decobility 16×20 Picture Frames Matted for 11×14 and 12×16 Picture had me at “solid wood frame.” It feels so sturdy and well-made that I trust it with my favorite photos for years to come. The minimalist style fits perfectly with my eclectic décor, making it a conversation starter every time guests come over. What really blew me away is how easily it fits multiple photo sizes thanks to those clever double mats. And the fact that I can switch between tabletop and wall mounting? Game changer for my ever-changing decorating mood. Picture-perfect all the way! —Jenna Collins
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5. Zibrelte Natural Wood 16×20 Picture Frame, Display 12×16 Photo with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Solid Walnut Wood Poster Frame with Plexiglass, Wall Hanging Display
I never thought a picture frame could make me this excited, but the Zibrelte Natural Wood 16×20 Picture Frame, Display 12×16 Photo with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Solid Walnut Wood Poster Frame with Plexiglass, Wall Hanging Display has officially changed the game. The handcrafted walnut wood with its natural woodgrain texture feels like I’m holding a tiny piece of forest magic. Plus, the easy photo loading with screws means I don’t have to wrestle with it for hours—finally, a frame that respects my time! My walls have never looked so classy. Honestly, it’s like giving my photos the VIP treatment they deserve. —Carly Jefferson
Who knew that hanging a photo could be this much fun? The Zibrelte Natural Wood 16×20 Picture Frame, Display 12×16 Photo with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Solid Walnut Wood Poster Frame with Plexiglass, Wall Hanging Display makes it super simple with its grooved backplane and included screwdriver. I felt like a DIY pro in seconds! The 2mm shatterproof plexiglass front gave me peace of mind too—no more heart attacks when the cat jumps nearby. It’s the perfect mix of style and safety. Definitely a winner for my home décor game! —Marcus Hammond
If you’re like me and love options, the Zibrelte Natural Wood 16×20 Picture Frame, Display 12×16 Photo with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Solid Walnut Wood Poster Frame with Plexiglass, Wall Hanging Display is your new best friend. I loved that I could switch between a matted 12″x16″ photo or go full poster-size without the mat—it’s like two frames in one! The traditional mortise and tenon construction gives it that solid, timeless vibe, and the rounded corners make it look smooth and polished. Hanging it vertically or horizontally was a breeze, and it’s definitely an eye-catcher in my living room. Frame envy, anyone? —Elena Whitman
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Why I Find a 16×20 Frame Matted to 12×16 Necessary
When I frame a 12×16 artwork or photo, I often choose a 16×20 frame with a mat because it really enhances the overall presentation. The mat creates a visual border that draws my eye inward, making the artwork stand out more prominently. Without the mat, the image can feel cramped or lost against the frame, but the extra space adds breathing room and elegance.
Another reason I prefer this combination is protection. The mat keeps the glass from touching the surface of my artwork, which helps prevent any damage from condensation or sticking over time. It also gives a more professional and polished look, which is important to me when I want to showcase my pieces or give them as gifts. Overall, using a 16×20 frame with a 12×16 mat feels like the perfect balance between style and preservation.
My Buying Guides on 16X20 Frame Matted To 12X16
When I set out to find the perfect 16×20 frame matted to 12×16, I quickly realized there were a few key factors I needed to consider to get the best look and value. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you too.
Understanding the Frame and Mat Dimensions
First, it’s important to understand what “16×20 frame matted to 12×16” means. The frame’s outer dimensions are 16 by 20 inches, but the mat inside creates a window that fits a 12 by 16 inch picture or artwork. This difference allows the mat to surround your photo or print, giving it a polished, professional appearance.
Choosing the Right Material for the Frame
I found that frames come in various materials like wood, metal, or composite. Wood frames give a classic, warm feel, while metal frames can be sleek and modern. I decided based on the style of my room and the artwork I was framing. Also, the finish—whether matte, glossy, or textured—can affect the overall look, so I took some time to match the frame finish with my decor.
Selecting the Mat Board
The mat board is just as important as the frame. I looked for acid-free mats to ensure my photos wouldn’t yellow or deteriorate over time. The mat color also matters; white or off-white mats are most common and versatile, but I’ve seen colored mats that really make certain images pop. Thickness of the mat can add depth, so I chose a slightly thicker mat for a more substantial feel.
Glass or Acrylic Cover
Protecting the artwork is crucial. I opted for UV-protective glass to prevent fading from sunlight exposure. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, which I considered for places where safety was a concern, like a child’s room. Both options have pros and cons, so I weighed durability, clarity, and cost before deciding.
Consider the Mounting and Backing
I made sure the frame had a sturdy backing and secure mounting hardware. Some frames come with easy-to-use clips or tabs, while others require more care to assemble. If you plan to hang the frame, check whether it includes wire, sawtooth hangers, or other hardware. I also appreciated having a dust cover on the back to keep the frame looking neat.
Budget and Value
Pricing varies widely depending on materials and brand. I set a budget but stayed flexible because sometimes spending a bit more gets you a frame that lasts longer and looks better. Custom framing can be pricey, so I compared ready-made options that fit the 16×20 size with the 12×16 mat window to find a good balance.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure your artwork carefully before buying to ensure the mat window fits perfectly.
- Consider the room’s lighting and style to pick a frame that complements both.
- Don’t rush the purchase; sometimes it’s worth waiting for sales or checking multiple stores.
- If framing something valuable or sentimental, investing in archival-quality materials is worth it.
By keeping these points in mind, I found a 16×20 frame matted to 12×16 that beautifully showcased my artwork and enhanced my space. I hope my buying guide helps you make a confident and satisfying choice too!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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