The Perfect Fit: Your Guide to the 23 x 28 Picture Frame

Finding the right frame for a cherished piece of art, a valuable poster, or a special photograph is more than a finishing touch—it's an act of preservation and presentation. Among the many standard sizes, the 23 x 28 frame occupies a unique and often sought-after niche. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this specific frame size, from its common applications to practical selection and styling advice, helping you make an informed and confident choice.

Understanding the 23 x 28 Frame Dimension

The dimensions 23 inches by 28 inches refer to the frame's overall outside measurement. It's crucial to distinguish this from the viewable area, or "mat opening," which will be smaller. This size is not as common as standard poster sizes like 24x36, which makes it a specialized choice often used for specific types of artwork and prints. When shopping, you will typically see it listed as a 23 x 28 picture frame or 23x28 frame. It's a landscape-oriented rectangle, with the 28-inch side being the width when hung in the traditional horizontal format.

Common Uses and Artwork for This Size

This frame size is frequently employed for higher-value or custom pieces. Based on industry standards and common practices, you will most often encounter a 23 x 28 frame used for:

Limited Edition Serigraphs and Lithographs: Many artists and printmakers use this size for signed and numbered editions. The dimensions offer a generous border for a mat, creating a classic, gallery-style presentation that enhances the artwork's value.
Vintage Movie Posters: Certain international or re-release movie posters were printed to fit this dimension. Collectors often seek out frames specifically sized to 23 x 28 to preserve these posters without trimming.
Custom-Matted Photographs: A professional photographer might choose this frame size to present a large, matted print. For instance, a 16x20 photograph can be beautifully centered within a double mat to fit perfectly inside a 23 x 28 frame.
Architectural and Engineering Prints: Some smaller-scale technical drawings or blueprints are produced at a size that fits well within this frame after matting.

A Note on Mats and Fit

It is exceedingly rare to place a 23x28 inch piece of paper directly against the glass in a frame of the same outer dimension. This practice, called "full-bleed" framing, offers no protection from the glass and looks unfinished. Almost always, a 23 x 28 frame will be used with a mat board. The mat serves both an aesthetic purpose, creating a visual buffer between the art and the frame, and a practical one, preventing the artwork from adhering to the glass. Therefore, the actual artwork you are framing will be smaller—common mat openings for this frame size might be 16x20, 18x24, or 11x14, depending on the desired border width.

Selecting the Right 23 x 28 Picture Frame

With an understanding of what this frame typically holds, you can make a smarter selection. Consider these evidence-based factors:

Material and Construction: For a piece of any value, avoid flimsy, plastic-backed frames. Look for solid wood, metal, or high-quality composite frames with a secure backing system (preferably with points or screws, not flimsy tabs). This ensures the frame will protect its contents and remain stable over time.
Glazing Options: Glass is standard, but for larger sizes like this, it can be heavy and pose a safety risk if broken. Acrylic (plexiglass) is a lighter, shatter-resistant alternative, ideal for homes with children or for shipping. For artwork sensitive to light, insist on UV-filtering glazing, whether glass or acrylic, to significantly slow fading.
Mat Board Quality: If your frame includes a mat, ensure it is made from acid-free, lignin-free mat board. Inferior mats contain acids that will migrate into your artwork, causing yellowing and brittleness over decades. Conservation-grade mats are essential for long-term preservation.
Hanging Hardware: Check that the frame comes with robust, weight-appropriate hardware. A 23 x 28 frame with glass and mat can be substantial. D-rings with braided wire or sturdy sawtooth hangers are preferable to thin, single-strand wire.

Styling and Placement in Your Space

A frame of this size makes a statement. It is large enough to be a focal point on a wall but not so massive that it overwhelms a standard room. For balanced placement, consider hanging it so the center of the frame is at approximately 57 to 60 inches from the floor, which is the average eye level. In a gallery wall arrangement, a 23 x 28 frame can serve as a substantial anchor piece, surrounded by smaller complementary frames. Its landscape orientation makes it ideal for hanging above a sofa, a console table, or a mantel, where its width can complement the furniture below.

Personal Insight: The Hunt for the Right Frame

I once acquired a beautiful serigraph from a local artist. The print itself was an unusual 19x25 inches, and finding a ready-made frame was a challenge. After measuring and consulting with a framer, I learned that a standard 23 x 28 frame with a custom-cut, acid-free mat would be the perfect, most cost-effective solution. The two-inch mat border provided a elegant transition that made the colors in the art pop, and the ready-made frame was significantly less expensive than a fully custom box. This experience drove home the point that understanding standard frame sizes like 23x28 opens up more accessible and affordable preservation options, even for slightly non-standard artwork.

Final Recommendations for Your Project

When preparing to frame a piece intended for a 23 x 28 picture frame, always measure your artwork first and decide on your mat border preferences. If you are purchasing a frame for a standard poster or print, verify its exact dimensions—many items advertised as "fits a 23x28 frame" account for the necessary mat overlap. For original art, valuable collectibles, or items with strong sentimental value, consulting with a professional framer is always a wise investment. They can ensure proper materials and techniques are used. For less critical projects, many reputable online and retail stores offer quality ready-made frames in this size, especially in classic finishes like black, white, silver, and natural wood.

Ultimately, the right 23 x 28 frame does more than just hold your picture; it protects your memory, honors the artwork, and completes your space with intention. By focusing on quality materials, proper fit, and thoughtful placement, you can ensure your framed piece remains a source of enjoyment for years to come.