How to Figure the Right Length(s) of Moulding
To select an appropriate length and width of moulding follow these steps: - Decide on an Appropriate Width of Moulding.
The width of the moulding is the distance across the face, the part that is facing outward when the frame is hanging on the wall. As a rule of thumb consider a frame width of about 1" for frame sizes from 8"x10" to 15"x19". Consider a frame width of about 1.5" for frame sizes from 16"x20" to 23"x25". Consider a frame width of about 2" for frame sizes 24"x36" and larger.
- Select the Desired Style of Moulding. Look over the selections on our website and choose the frame style you want, make note of the width of the moulding you have chosen.
- Determine the Appropriate Lengths of Moulding Needed to Make Your Frame.
- Add together the four sides of the frame you wish to make. For example: To make a 16"x20" frame, figure 16+16+20+20= 72".
- Multiply the width of the moulding by 8, and add that to the sum. For example: To make a 16"x20" frame using a 1.5" wide moulding, multiply 1.5" x 8 = 12", then add 12" to 72". ie., 12"+ 72" = 84".
- Add a quarter inch to the total to allow for some breathing room in the frame recess so the stack of matboard, foamboard and glazing doesn't fit too tightly, and also to allow for the thickness of the blade as it cuts the moulding. For example: 84" + 1/4" = 84-1/4".
At this point you know the length of the moulding in inches, to discover the length of the moulding in feet, divide the length in inches by 12. For example: 84-1/4"÷12= 7 feet. - Select the best combination of available lengths to make your frame. For example: Since the mouldings are not sold in 7 foot lengths, you will need two lengths. Remember, it is always better to have more than you need. To cut the above moulding, two 4 foot lengths would be appropriate.
The table below gives you some insight into the moulding lengths necessary to make various size frames: | Frame Size | 2 lengths of.... | 2 lengths of.... | Total inches
(or feet) needed | Moulding necessary to make it | 8"x10"
1" wide moulding
| 10" (x2) | 12" (x2) | 44"
3.66 feet | (2) 3 ft. | 11"x14"
1" wide moulding
| 13" (x2) | 16" (x2) | 58"
4.83 feet | (2) 3 ft. | 14"x18"
1" wide moulding
| 16" (x2) | 20" (x2) | 72"
6 feet | (2) 4 ft.* | 18"x24"
1.5" wide
moulding
| 21" (x2) | 27" (x2) | 96"
8 feet | (1) 4 ft.*
(1) 5 ft. | 24"x36"
2" wide
moulding
| 28" (x2) | 40" (x2) | 136"
11.3 feet | (2) 4 ft.
(1) 5 ft. |
When the necessary footage requires an exact (or nearly exact) length, the wise framer defaults to the next longer length, allowing for a little extra room.
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