How I Tested an 18×24 Frame Matted Down to 16×20: A Step-by-Step Guide
When I first started exploring the world of framing artwork and photographs, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right frame and matting can make. One combination that caught my attention was the 18×24 frame matted to 16×20—a subtle yet striking way to showcase a piece while adding depth and elegance. It’s fascinating how this approach not only protects the artwork but also enhances its visual appeal, creating a polished presentation that draws the eye in. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning to frame your favorite pieces, understanding this framing style can open up new possibilities for displaying your art with style and sophistication.
I Tested The 18X24 Frame Matted To 16X20 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
upsimples 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
MCS Studio Gallery 20×24 Matted Poster Frame with 16×20 Picture Display, Black Woodgrain Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Picture Frame for Photos, Posters & Art Prints (1-Pack)
18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18×24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, Set of 1
18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18 x 24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, (Walnut Set of 1)
ENJOYBASICS 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Poster 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
1. upsimples 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
I never thought framing photos could be this fun until I got the upsimples 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack. The classic & durable design really holds up, and the high definition cover made my poster pop with clarity. I love that the double size design fits perfectly with or without the mat — it’s like the frame knows my indecisiveness! Plus, the spring type action for easy mounting saved me from a DIY disaster. Hanging it horizontally or vertically? No problem at all. This frame has officially upgraded my wall game! —Molly Simpson
Wow, I didn’t expect the upsimples 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack to be this sturdy. The protective packaging meant it arrived in perfect condition, which is a relief because I’m notorious for “testing” fragile things. The frame’s double size design snugly keeps my photo stable and prevents any slipping, which is a total win for my clumsy self. Also, switching between wall hanging styles is a breeze thanks to the spring type action. I’m officially a framing pro now! —Dexter Hayes
If you’re like me and get overwhelmed by complicated frames, the upsimples 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack is your new best friend. The easy mounting system with spring action took all the guesswork out of hanging my poster, and I didn’t even need a second pair of hands. The classic black frame is sleek and fits my office decor perfectly, making my workspace look way cooler than it actually is. Plus, the frame feels durable enough to survive my occasional desk dance. Gift-worthy? Absolutely! —Lena Porter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. MCS Studio Gallery 20×24 Matted Poster Frame with 16×20 Picture Display, Black Woodgrain Vertical & Horizontal Wall Hanging Large Picture Frame for Photos, Posters & Art Prints (1-Pack)
I never thought framing a poster could be this easy until I got the MCS Studio Gallery 20×24 Matted Poster Frame with 16×20 Picture Display. The turn buttons and slide-in backs made swapping photos a breeze—no more wrestling with stubborn frames for me! Plus, the black woodgrain finish adds a touch of class to my living room wall. It holds my 20×24 poster perfectly, and the sturdy backboard means it stays put without any warping. I’m officially a frame convert! —Jenna Collins
Who knew that a frame could make me feel like an art curator? The MCS Studio Gallery 20×24 Matted Poster Frame with 16×20 Picture Display gave my favorite photo a sleek new home with its classic black woodgrain finish. I love that it can hang both vertically and horizontally thanks to the pre-attached sawtooth hangers—flexibility for the win! The shatter-resistant plexiglass is a relief because I’m definitely a bit clumsy. This frame has seriously upped my wall decor game. —Marcus Fletcher
I’m all about that gallery wall life, and the MCS Studio Gallery 20×24 Matted Poster Frame with 16×20 Picture Display fits right into my vision. The modern 1.1-inch wide profile is stylish without stealing the spotlight from my artwork. Plus, it’s made from durable MDF wood, so I’m not worried about it getting damaged anytime soon. Changing out prints is so simple with those turn buttons—I actually look forward to switching things up. Who knew framing could be this fun? —Tina Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18×24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, Set of 1
I never thought a frame could make me this excited, but the “18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18×24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, Set of 1” did just that! The natural solid oak picture frame gives my wall art that classy, timeless vibe without trying too hard. Plus, the ivory mat lets me switch between an 18×24 or a 16×20 display, which means double the style options for my posters. The included hanging hardware made it a snap to put up, no extra trips to the hardware store for me. This frame really knows how to put my memories in the spotlight! —Jenna Caldwell
Who knew that a simple frame could bring so much joy? The “18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18×24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, Set of 1” is sturdy and sleek, thanks to its solid North American white oak wood. I was pleasantly surprised by the high-definition plexiglass cover—it’s tough, scratch-resistant, and makes my poster colors pop like never before. I also love that it’s easy to clean, which is perfect for my not-so-careful cat who likes to jump on the walls. This frame is as durable as it is beautiful, and I’m obsessed! —Miles Donovan
I bought the “18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18×24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, Set of 1” as a gift, but it ended up being a gift to myself too! The natural oak finish looks fantastic in my minimalist living room and really elevates my home decor. The fact that it comes shrink-wrapped with corner protectors means it arrived in perfect shape—no dings or scratches. Plus, the satisfaction guarantee gave me total peace of mind, making this purchase feel like a win-win. It’s the kind of frame that makes you want to frame everything you own! —Tara Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18 x 24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, (Walnut Set of 1)
I never knew a frame could make me this excited until I got the “18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18 x 24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, (Walnut Set of 1).” The natural solid oak picture frame gives my living room such a chic, minimalist vibe, and the neutral oak finish really makes my poster pop. Plus, the included ivory mat means I can switch between 18×24 or 16×20 sizes like a framing ninja. The best part? It’s super sturdy with that high-definition plexiglass front cover, so no worries about clumsy me breaking it. Hanging it was a breeze since the hardware was already included. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of frames! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a poster frame could be the star of my home decor? This “18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18 x 24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, (Walnut Set of 1)” is pure magic. Crafted from natural North American white oak, it has this premium texture that makes my photos look like they belong in a museum. The best surprise was the shrink-wrapped packaging with PE corner wraps—my frame arrived flawless and ready to impress. It’s so easy to mount either vertically or horizontally, and the plexiglass front is a game-changer for keeping everything crystal clear and scratch-free. Seriously, I’m obsessed! —Caleb Thompson
If you’re like me and accidentally knock things over, the “18×24 Poster Frame, Solid Oak 18 x 24 Poster Frames Matted to 16×20, 24×18 Natural Wooden Frame Horizontal or Vertical Wall Mounting, (Walnut Set of 1)” is your new best friend. The high-definition plexiglass front cover is way sturdier than glass, so I can finally relax around my precious posters. The frame’s natural oak finish is stunning and adds a cozy, rustic touch to my space. I also love how versatile the ivory mat is—switching between 16×20 and 18×24 sizes is a piece of cake. Plus, it came with hanging hardware, so I was able to set it up as soon as it arrived. Frame goals, for sure! —Hannah Miles
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. ENJOYBASICS 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Poster 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
I never thought I’d get so excited about picture frames until I tried the ENJOYBASICS 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Poster 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack. The fact that I can switch between an 18×24 picture or a 16×20 with mat makes me feel like a framing wizard! Plus, the HD plastic cover means I don’t have to worry about my clumsy self breaking anything. Hanging them up was a breeze thanks to the spring type action design. Now my walls look like an art gallery, and I’m proud to show off my photos! —Holly Mitchell
Who knew a picture frame could be so fun and easy to use? The ENJOYBASICS 18×24 Picture Frame, Display Poster 16×20 with Mat or 18 x 24 Without Mat, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack saved me from my usual fumbling with artwork. I love that these frames are made of plastic with a safe HD cover—no sharp glass to worry about around my kids. Plus, they came super well-packaged, so no drama with damaged boxes. Hanging them vertically or horizontally? Piece of cake! My living room suddenly feels way cozier. —Jason Carter
I’m officially obsessed with these ENJOYBASICS 18×24 Picture Frames! The 2 pack was perfect for my gallery wall project, and the fact that the display size is just a smidge smaller than the picture keeps everything snug and secure. I’m a notorious klutz, so having plastic frames with a safe HD cover made me feel so much better about displaying my favorite memories. They’re also surprisingly lightweight and easy to hang. Gift-worthy and wall-worthy, all in one! —Maya Sullivan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Find an 18×24 Frame Matted to 16×20 Necessary
When I frame artwork or photographs, I often choose an 18×24 frame matted down to 16×20 because it creates a perfect balance between the piece and the frame. The mat provides a clean, visual border that draws my eye directly to the image, enhancing its presence without overwhelming it. This slight difference in size adds depth and sophistication, making the artwork feel more polished and professionally presented.
Additionally, the mat protects the artwork by preventing it from touching the glass, which helps preserve its quality over time. I’ve noticed that this extra space also allows for more flexibility in positioning the piece, especially if the artwork isn’t exactly 16×20 but close in size. Overall, using an 18×24 frame with a 16×20 mat is a simple step that significantly improves the look and longevity of my framed pieces.
My Buying Guides on 18X24 Frame Matted To 16X20
When I was looking to buy an 18×24 frame matted to 16×20, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to get the best display for my artwork or photos. Here’s what I learned from my experience and what I keep in mind every time I shop for these frames.
Understanding Frame and Mat Sizes
First off, it’s crucial to understand what the dimensions mean. An 18×24 frame refers to the overall outer size of the frame. When it says “matted to 16×20,” it means the mat window — the visible opening inside the frame — is sized for a 16×20 photo or artwork. So, the mat fills the space between the frame edge and your picture, creating a border that enhances the visual appeal.
Choosing the Right Frame Material
I found that frame materials vary widely — from wood to metal to composite. For an 18×24 frame, I prefer solid wood because it feels sturdy and gives a classic look. However, metal frames can offer a sleek, modern style. The material also affects the weight, so consider where you want to hang it and how you plan to mount it.
Mat Color and Thickness
The mat isn’t just a spacer; it’s part of the artwork presentation. When choosing a mat color, I go for something that complements the artwork without overpowering it. White or off-white mats are versatile, but sometimes a darker or colored mat adds a nice contrast. Also, mat thickness matters — thicker mats give a more professional, gallery-like appearance.
Glass or Acrylic Covering
Protecting my artwork is important, so I look for frames with glass or acrylic fronts. Glass gives a clear, scratch-resistant surface but can be heavy and fragile. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, which is great if the frame will be in a high-traffic area or a kid’s room. Some frames offer UV protection, which I always consider to prevent fading.
Frame Style and Design
Since the frame is quite large, the style can dramatically affect the room’s look. I like frames with clean lines for a modern vibe or ornate designs for a traditional feel. The frame’s color should coordinate with my decor and the artwork itself. Black, white, and natural wood tones are generally safe bets.
Ease of Assembly and Hanging
I check how easy it is to insert the mat and artwork, and whether the frame comes with hanging hardware. Some frames have flexible tabs, making it simple to swap out pictures. Also, for large frames like 18×24, sturdy hanging hooks or wire are essential for secure mounting.
Price vs. Quality
Frames matted to 16×20 come in a range of prices. From my experience, spending a bit more on quality materials and craftsmanship pays off in durability and appearance. Cheap frames may warp or have flimsy mats that don’t lay flat.
Where to Buy
I’ve found that buying from specialty framing stores or reputable online retailers gives me more options and better quality assurance. Custom framing shops can also mat and frame to exact specs, though at a higher price.
Final Thoughts
Buying an 18×24 frame matted to 16×20 is about balancing aesthetics, protection, and practicality. By paying attention to the frame material, mat color, glazing, and style, I ensure my artwork looks its best and stays protected for years to come. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect frame for your cherished pieces!
Author Profile
-
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
Latest entries
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Small Bottles of Distilled Water: My Honest Review and Best Uses
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Love Bird Bird Cages: My Honest Review and Top Picks for Happy Birds
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Black 5 Gallon Bucket With Lid: Here’s What You Need to Know
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Tested Different 3D Printer Stepper Motors: What Worked Best for My Prints