Direct fit
Match the frame label to the artwork size when you do not want a mat, for example a 10 × 15 cm frame for a 10 × 15 cm print.
The metric frame reference
Picture frame sizes in centimeters
Compare standard metric frame labels, check approximate inch conversions, and choose a frame that fits your photos, prints, and A-series paper.
Standard sizes
Standard picture frame sizes in cm
Metric frames are sold with rounded centimetre labels. The inch column shows a one-decimal conversion for comparison.
| Metric frame (cm) | Approximate inches | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 10 × 15 cm | 3.9 × 5.9 in | Standard snapshots |
| 13 × 18 cm | 5.1 × 7.1 in | Small portraits |
| 15 × 20 cm | 5.9 × 7.9 in | Desk and shelf frames |
| 20 × 25 cm | 7.9 × 9.8 in | Classic portraits |
| 21 × 30 cm | 8.3 × 11.8 in | Documents and A4 prints |
| 24 × 30 cm | 9.4 × 11.8 in | Medium wall frames |
| 30 × 40 cm | 11.8 × 15.7 in | Gallery-wall prints |
| 40 × 50 cm | 15.7 × 19.7 in | Large portraits |
| 50 × 70 cm | 19.7 × 27.6 in | Posters and art prints |
| 60 × 80 cm | 23.6 × 31.5 in | Large posters |
| 70 × 100 cm | 27.6 × 39.4 in | Large display posters |
Paper formats
ISO A-series paper sizes for frames
A-series paper keeps the same proportions at every size, so a frame that fits A4 will also suit other A-series artwork with the same aspect ratio.
| Paper size | Exact size (cm) | Exact size (in) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A5 | 14.8 × 21.0 cm | 5.83 × 8.27 in | Cards and small prints |
| A4 | 21.0 × 29.7 cm | 8.27 × 11.69 in | Certificates and documents |
| A3 | 29.7 × 42.0 cm | 11.7 × 16.5 in | Illustrations and charts |
| A2 | 42.0 × 59.4 cm | 16.5 × 23.4 in | Wall posters |
| A1 | 59.4 × 84.1 cm | 23.4 × 33.1 in | Large art prints |
| A0 | 84.1 × 118.9 cm | 33.1 × 46.8 in | Exhibition displays |
Exact versus nominal
How centimetre labels relate to inches
Multiply inches by 2.54 to get the exact centimetre size. Retail metric labels are rounded, so they rarely match inch sizes exactly.
1 inch = 2.54 centimeters4 × 6 in = 10.16 × 15.24 cm
Choose well
How to choose a frame size in centimeters
A frame label describes what fits inside, not the outside edge. Decide which layer you are matching before ordering.
Matted
Choose the next larger frame and a mat opening slightly smaller than the artwork, keeping 3–6 mm overlap on each edge.
Aspect ratio
Check proportions before matching: a 4 × 6 photo and a 13 × 18 cm frame have different shapes and need a mat or cropping.
Metric frame answers
Picture frame sizes in centimeters FAQ
What are the most common picture frame sizes in centimeters?
Common metric labels include 10 × 15, 13 × 18, 20 × 25, 30 × 40, and 50 × 70 cm. Frames for A4 paper are commonly labelled 21 × 30 cm.
Is a 10 × 15 cm frame the same as a 4 × 6 in frame?
Not exactly. A 4 × 6 in frame is 10.16 × 15.24 cm; 10 × 15 cm is a rounded retail label. Check the usable opening before ordering.
What is the exact centimeter size of an 8 × 10 in frame?
8 × 10 inches converts exactly to 20.32 × 25.4 cm. Retail metric frames are often labelled 20 × 25 cm.
What frame size fits A4 paper?
A4 paper is exactly 21 × 29.7 cm. Look for a frame labelled 21 × 30 cm or A4 and confirm the opening dimensions.
How do I convert inches to centimeters for frames?
Multiply each inch dimension by 2.54 to get centimeters. To convert back, divide centimeters by 2.54.