How to Select the Length of Picture Frame Molding

To select an appropriate length and width of molding follow these steps:

Decide on an Appropriate Width of Molding.
The width of the molding 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 Molding. Look over the selections in our molding catalog (access using the Unfinished Moldings and Finished Moldings links above) and choose the frame style you want, note the width of the molding you choose.
Determine the Appropriate Lengths of Molding Needed to Make Your Frame.
1. 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".
2. Multiply the width of the molding by 8, and add that to the sum. For example: To make a 16"x20" frame using a 1.5" wide molding, multiply 1.5" x 8 = 12", then add 12" to 72". ie., 12"+ 72" = 84".
3. Add an inch and a half 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 when it cuts the molding. For example: 84" + 1½" = 85½".
  At this point you know the length of the molding in inches, to discover the length of the molding in feet, divide the length in inches by 12. For example: 85½"÷12= 7-1/8 feet.
4. Select the best combination of available lengths to make your frame. For example: Since the moldings are not sold in 7-1/8 foot lengths, you will need two lengths. Remember, it is always better to have more than you need. To cut the above molding, two 4 foot lengths would be appropriate.

The table below gives you some insight into the molding lengths necessary to make various size frames:

Frame Size	2 lengths of....	2 lengths of....	Total inches (or feet) needed	Molding necessary to make it
8"x10" 1" wide molding	10" (x2)	12" (x2)	44" 3.66 feet	(2) 3 ft.
11"x14" 1" wide molding	13" (x2)	16" (x2)	58" 4.83 feet	(2) 3 ft.
14"x18" 1" wide molding	16" (x2)	20" (x2)	72" 6 feet	(2) 4 ft.*
18"x24" 1.5" wide molding	21" (x2)	27" (x2)	96" 8 feet	(1) 4 ft.* (1) 5 ft.
24"x36" 2" wide molding	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.

Make Sure You've Got the Equipment You Need to Cut and Join the Molding. View our complete line of frame making equipment.
Cut and Join Your Picture Frame Moldings.

About SSL Certificates