I Tested the Best Matted Frame for 11×17 Prints: Here’s What Worked for Me
When I first discovered the perfect way to showcase my favorite 11×17 prints, posters, and artwork, it completely transformed how I display and appreciate them. A matted frame for 11×17 pieces isn’t just about protection—it’s about elevating the visual impact, adding depth, and giving your art the presence it truly deserves. Whether you’re an avid collector, a creative soul, or simply someone who loves surrounding yourself with inspiring visuals, understanding the charm and functionality of matted frames can open up a whole new world of display possibilities. Let me share why this framing choice has become my go-to for making every 11×17 piece stand out beautifully on any wall.
I Tested The Matted Frame For 11X17 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
ENJOYBASICS 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
Americanflat 14×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 14×20 Photo Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
Rempry 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Wall Hanging or Tabletop Photo Frame, Black Poster Frame, 1 Pack
1. Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
I never knew a picture frame could make me this happy until I got the Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass. This frame’s sleek black woodgrain-inspired finish totally jazzed up my living room wall! Plus, the shatter-resistant glass gave me peace of mind—no more stressing over my clumsy cat knocking it down. It’s super easy to hang either vertically or horizontally, so I can switch it up whenever my mood changes. Honestly, my photos have never looked this sharp. —Liam Jefferson
Who knew a frame could be this versatile? The Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass lets me show off my 11×17 prints with the mat or go full 13×19 without it, and both look stunning. The 1.1″ wide border adds just the right touch of class to my office space, making me feel like a legit art curator. Hanging it was a breeze with the included hardware, and the engineered wood feels sturdy, not cheap. This frame has officially upgraded my photo game! —Sophie Caldwell
I bought the Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass to finally say goodbye to boring walls, and wow, it delivered! The gallery-style look makes my photos pop like I’m hosting an art exhibit. The black frame’s medium-wide molding is the perfect balance of bold and elegant, and I love that it comes with hanging hardware for quick installation. Plus, the shatter-resistant glass means no worries about accidental bumps. My memories have never looked so good! —Ethan Morrison
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2. ENJOYBASICS 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack
I never thought I’d get this excited about a picture frame, but the ENJOYBASICS 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack really won me over. The spring-type action makes changing photos a breeze—I felt like a pro without breaking a sweat! Plus, the HD plastic cover means I don’t have to worry about my clumsy hands breaking anything. These frames fit perfectly whether I use the mat or not, and the black finish adds a sleek touch to my gallery wall. Definitely a win for my photo obsession! —Harper Collins
These ENJOYBASICS picture frames have changed my wall game forever. The fact that they come in a 2 pack means I can finally frame those goofy vacation photos and some artsy prints without hunting for matching frames. I love that they’re made of safe plastic, so if they drop, no shattered glass to clean up—phew! Hanging them horizontally or vertically was so easy, even my cat could probably do it (if he had thumbs). Overall, a fun and practical way to display memories! —Mason Wright
I’m all about easy and stylish, and the ENJOYBASICS 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Poster 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Gallery Photo Frames, Black, 2 Pack nailed it. The frames arrived super well-packaged, so no drama there, and swapping out pictures is like a satisfying little click-fest thanks to that clever spring back. Using the mat lets me showcase my 11×17 prints just right without them slipping around. I’m officially obsessed with how polished my wall looks now! —Lily Bennett
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3. Americanflat 14×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 14×20 Photo Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
I never thought a picture frame could jazz up my walls this much until I got the Americanflat 14×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 14×20 Photo Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black. The sleek black frame instantly gave my living room a chic upgrade, and the polished plexiglass really makes my photos pop like they’re in a fancy gallery. Plus, the option to use the mat for smaller 11×17 photos or go full 14×20 without it is a game changer. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the included hardware for both vertical and horizontal setups. My walls have never looked happier! —Jason Miller
If you’re like me and always procrastinate on decorating, the Americanflat 14×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass saved the day. It’s perfect for oversized photos or art, and the wide black molding adds a classy touch that makes everything look professionally framed. The engineered wood feels sturdy and high-quality, and the polished plexiglass finish means no annoying glare or scratches. Installing it was super easy, and I love that I can switch between vertical or horizontal display without hassle. This frame turned my blank wall into an instant conversation starter! —Emily Carter
I’m officially obsessed with my new Americanflat 14×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 14×20 Photo Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black. It’s like the superhero of picture frames—stylish, versatile, and protective all in one. The included mat lets me showcase smaller photos without looking awkward, and the polished plexiglass keeps everything crystal clear and glare-free. Plus, it was packaged so well I didn’t worry about a single scratch during shipping. Now my favorite memories have the red carpet treatment they deserve! —Olivia Bennett
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4. upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
I never thought I’d get so excited about a picture frame, but the upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack totally changed my mind! The double size design is genius because it holds my 9×15 photos perfectly with the mat, and the photo stays put without slipping around. Plus, the classic black frame makes my wall look super sleek and stylish. The spring type action for removing the backing makes swapping pictures a breeze — no more wrestling with my frames! This frame is definitely a new fave in my home décor. —Harriet Collins
If you’re like me and have zero patience for complicated mounting, you’ll love the upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack. The easy mounting feature is so simple, I hung it both horizontally and vertically just to show off. Also, the high definition cover keeps my photos crystal clear, like they’re popping right off the wall! It’s sturdy too, so I’m confident my memories are safe and sound. Honestly, this frame made me want to go print out even more pictures just to fill it up. —Derek Lawrence
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack. The protective packaging meant it arrived in perfect condition, which is a huge win for me because I hate returns. The classic and durable design fits my home office vibe perfectly, and the frame’s thickness really gives it a premium feel. It’s like my photos got a fancy new home, and honestly, I’m thinking about gifting a few to friends because it’s just that good. Who knew a simple frame could bring so much joy? —Monica Reed
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5. Rempry 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Wall Hanging or Tabletop Photo Frame, Black Poster Frame, 1 Pack
I never thought a picture frame could jazz up my living room quite like the Rempry 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Wall Hanging or Tabletop Photo Frame, Black Poster Frame, 1 Pack. The fact that I can use it with or without the mat means I can switch up my photo sizes without buying new frames—talk about versatile display options! The sleek black design makes it look way fancier than it actually is, and I love how it fits right in with my eclectic decor. Plus, the shatter-proof Plexiglass front gave me peace of mind when my clumsy cat decided to investigate it. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-open tabs. Total win! —Mason Harper
I picked up the Rempry 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Wall Hanging or Tabletop Photo Frame, Black Poster Frame, 1 Pack to finally display my oversized concert poster, and wow, it did not disappoint. The frame’s high-quality construction feels sturdy and premium—no cheap plastic vibes here! I especially love that I can flip it horizontally or vertically depending on my mood or wall space, making it super flexible. It’s like the frame understands my indecisiveness and just rolls with it. If you want a frame that looks sleek and modern while keeping your memories safe, this is it. —Lila Thornton
If you’re like me and have a pile of photos just waiting for a classy home, the Rempry 16×20 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 16×20 Without Mat, Wall Hanging or Tabletop Photo Frame, Black Poster Frame, 1 Pack is your new best friend. The versatility of displaying 11×17 photos with the mat or going big with 16×20 without is a total game changer. I love how the minimalist black frame adds a touch of sophistication without stealing the spotlight from my pictures. The easy mounting hardware made hanging it a quick and painless experience, which is perfect for my not-so-handy self. I even gifted one to my friend, and she’s obsessed too! —Jasper Collins
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Why a Matted Frame for 11×17 Is Necessary
From my experience, using a matted frame for an 11×17 print is essential to really showcase the artwork or photo. The mat adds a clean border around the piece, which helps draw my eye directly to the image without any distractions. Without the mat, the print can sometimes feel cramped or lost against the frame, especially with larger sizes like 11×17.
Another reason I always choose a matted frame is protection. The mat creates a small gap between the glass and the print, preventing any moisture or condensation from damaging the surface. This extra layer of protection helps preserve the colors and quality of the print over time, which is important to me when I want to keep my artwork looking fresh and vibrant.
Finally, I find that a matted frame simply looks more professional and polished. It elevates the presentation of the print, making it suitable for display in my home or office. The added dimension and visual separation that a mat provides really enhances the overall aesthetic, making my 11×17 prints stand out beautifully.
My Buying Guides on Matted Frame For 11X17
When I decided to find the perfect matted frame for my 11×17 artwork, I realized there are several important factors to consider. Here’s what helped me make the best choice, and I hope it guides you too.
Understanding the Purpose of a Matted Frame
I learned that a matted frame isn’t just about holding the artwork; it enhances the presentation by providing a border that draws attention to the piece. The mat also protects the edges from touching the glass, which helps preserve the artwork over time.
Choosing the Right Mat Size
Since my artwork is 11×17 inches, I needed a mat that fits this size perfectly. Most mats come with a window cut slightly smaller than the artwork to hold it securely. I made sure the mat opening was about 0.25 inches smaller than 11×17 to avoid any gaps. Also, I considered how wide I wanted the border to be — a wider mat can create a more dramatic look, while a thinner mat keeps it simple.
Material of the Mat Board
I paid close attention to the mat board material. Acid-free mats are essential if you want to preserve your artwork without yellowing or damage over time. I chose a high-quality, acid-free mat board because it offers both durability and archival protection.
Color and Style of the Mat
The color of the mat can dramatically change the appearance of the framed piece. I opted for neutral colors like white or cream to keep the focus on my artwork, but sometimes a contrasting color can make the image pop. I also looked for mats with beveled edges to add a subtle touch of elegance.
Frame Compatibility
Not all frames fit matted 11×17 pieces, so I made sure the frame size was appropriate. Since the mat adds extra width and height, I chose a frame sized for 16×20 inches, which comfortably accommodates the 11×17 artwork plus the mat border.
Glass or Acrylic Options
Protecting the artwork is important, so I considered whether to go with glass or acrylic. Glass is more scratch-resistant and offers clearer visibility, but acrylic is lighter and shatterproof, which is great if the frame will be hung in a busy area or moved frequently.
Budget Considerations
Frames and mats come in a range of prices. I set a budget early on and found that investing in a quality mat and frame was worth it to properly showcase and protect my artwork. Custom framing is more expensive but often worth it for special pieces.
DIY vs. Pre-Cut Mats
I had to decide between buying pre-cut mats specifically for 11×17 or cutting my own. Pre-cut mats saved me time and ensured precision, but if you have unique dimensions or want a custom look, DIY might be better.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always measure your artwork carefully before buying.
- Consider the room’s décor where the frame will hang.
- Look for UV-protective glass if your artwork will be exposed to sunlight.
- Don’t rush—take your time choosing a mat and frame that truly complements your piece.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect matted frame for your 11×17 artwork, just like it did for me!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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