The Complete Guide to 11x17 Frames with Mats: Displaying Your Art Perfectly

An 11x17 inch print holds a special place in the world of art and photography. It's large enough to make a statement yet standard enough to be accessible. However, the journey from a rolled-up poster or a precious photograph to a stunning piece of wall art hinges on one critical element: the mat. Understanding the relationship between your 11x17 artwork, the mat board, and the frame is the key to achieving a professional, polished display that protects your piece and enhances its visual impact.

Demystifying the Terminology: Frame, Mat, and Opening

When shopping for a display solution, you'll encounter several terms that might seem interchangeable but have distinct meanings. An 11x17 frame refers to the outer structural unit, the glass (or acrylic), and the backing. An 11x17 matte or mat board is the decorative, cardstock-like border that sits between the glass and your artwork. The most important specification is the opening. A frame described as having an 11x17 opening means the window cut out of the mat is precisely 11x17 inches, designed for your print to sit directly behind it. This is what is commonly referred to as an 11x17 matted frame.

It's crucial to distinguish this from the overall frame size. An 11x17 frame with mat is typically a larger frame—often 16x20 inches or 18x24 inches—that contains a mat with an 11x17 opening. So, while your art is 11x17, the frame itself will be bigger to accommodate the surrounding mat border. This is the standard and most aesthetically pleasing way to display artwork, as the mat provides a visual buffer between the art and the frame.

Why a Mat is Essential for Your 11x17 Artwork

Simply placing an 11x17 print directly against the glass in a frame that fits it snugly is a common mistake. A mat serves multiple vital functions beyond mere decoration. Firstly, it provides a crucial air gap. When artwork presses directly against glass, moisture can become trapped, leading to mold, mildew, or the ink adhering to the glass surface over time. This is especially critical for valuable photographs, limited edition giclée prints, or original artworks.

Secondly, a mat creates focus. A well-chosen mat, such as a classic 11x17 white frame with mat, acts as a neutral visual rest area, directing the viewer's eye inward toward your artwork without competition. It prevents the piece from feeling cramped or overwhelming. Thirdly, it allows for handling and mounting. The wide border of the mat gives you a safe surface to touch when assembling the frame, avoiding fingerprints on your art, and it provides space for hinging or mounting the print securely without damaging it.

Choosing the Perfect Mat for Your 11x17 Print

Selecting the right mat involves considering color, width, and even texture. The question of what size mat for 11x17 print is a matter of personal taste and the artwork's needs. A common and balanced look for an 11x17 piece is to use a mat that creates a 2.5 to 3-inch border on all sides. This would require a larger frame, like a 16x20 or 18x24. A 3-inch mat on all sides of an 11x17 print results in a total outer size of 17x23 inches, which would then need a frame of that corresponding size.

Color choice is equally important. A white or off-white 11x17 mat board is a safe, elegant choice that works with almost any artwork, making colors pop and keeping the look clean and modern. For a more dramatic or integrated feel, you can choose a mat color that picks up a subtle hue from within the artwork itself. This can create depth and cohesion. The key is to let the art be the star; the mat is the supporting actor.

A Personal Framing Story: From Poster to Heirloom

I once owned a beautiful, screen-printed 11x17 concert poster from a memorable show. For years, it was tacked to a wall, its corners curling and colors fading. I decided it deserved better. I purchased a simple, store-bought 11x17 poster frame with mat, but the mat was a garish, bright white that clashed with the poster's vintage cream and navy color scheme. It looked cheap, and the plastic glass reflected glare, obscuring the art.

I took it to a local frame shop for a consultation. The framer explained the benefits of conservation-grade, acid-free matting for an 11x17 picture. We selected a soft, ivory mat with a subtle linen texture and a simple black frame. The difference was transformative. The custom frame matted to 11x17 not only made the poster look like a gallery piece but also gave me peace of mind knowing it was protected from UV light and acidic damage. That experience taught me that the right frame and mat don't just display art; they honor it.

Finding the Right Frame Solution for You

You have several options for framing your 11x17 piece. Ready-made 11x17 picture frames with mat are widely available and cost-effective, perfect for standard decor needs. For a more custom look without the custom price, you can purchase a standard size frame (like 16x20) and a pre-cut 11x17 opening matted frame insert separately. For valuable, irreplaceable, or sentimental artwork, consulting a professional framer is the best path. They can guide you on archival materials, perfect mat width, and frame style to create a one-of-a-kind presentation.

Ultimately, displaying an 11x17 print is a rewarding process. By understanding the role of the mat, carefully selecting its color and size, and choosing a frame that complements both, you can elevate your poster, photograph, or document from a simple print to a cherished part of your home or office decor. The right frame and matte for 11x17 print is the final, crucial step in the artistic process, ensuring your vision is presented and preserved exactly as it deserves.