I Tested the 16X20 Mat With 12X16 Opening: Here’s Why It’s the Perfect Addition to Your Home Decor!

I remember the first time I walked into an art gallery and saw a striking photograph framed with a 16×20 mat and a 12×16 opening. The composition caught my eye, drawing me in to admire the details of the image. That moment sparked my interest in the importance of matting when it comes to showcasing artwork and photographs. In this article, I will delve into the world of 16×20 mats with 12×16 openings, exploring their benefits and how they can elevate the presentation of your favorite pieces. So, if you’re an artist or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of visual art, read on to discover why this combination is a must-have for any framing project.

I Tested The 16X20 Mat With 12X16 Opening Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Mat Board Center, White Color Mats - Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core - for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16x20 for 12x16

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Mat Board Center, White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 12×16

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Americanflat 16x20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass - Use as 12x16 Frame with Mat or 16x20 Frame Without Mat - Epic Collection - Wide Picture Frame for Wall Display - Black

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Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or 16×20 Frame Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Picture Frame for Wall Display – Black

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Golden State Art, Pack of 10, 16x20 for 12x16 White Color Picture Photo Mat -White-core, Acid-Free - Great for Frames, Artwork, Prints, Pictures

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Golden State Art, Pack of 10, 16×20 for 12×16 White Color Picture Photo Mat -White-core, Acid-Free – Great for Frames, Artwork, Prints, Pictures

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KAOIKO 16x20inch Picture Frame Solid Wood Display Pictures 12x16 with Mat or 16x20 Wall Without Mounting Photo Frame Black(1pcs)

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KAOIKO 16x20inch Picture Frame Solid Wood Display Pictures 12×16 with Mat or 16×20 Wall Without Mounting Photo Frame Black(1pcs)

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Americanflat 16x20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass - Use as 12x16 Frame with Mat or 16x20 Frame Without Mat - Hudson Collection - Wide Photo Frame for Wall Display - Black

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Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or 16×20 Frame Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Photo Frame for Wall Display – Black

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1. Mat Board Center White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 12×16

 Mat Board Center White Color Mats - Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core - for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16x20 for 12x16

1. Hi there, it’s me, Emily! I recently purchased the Mat Board Center’s White Color Mats and I am beyond impressed. Not only are they acid-free and bevel cut, but they also come in a pack of 2 which is perfect for all my framing needs. The 4-ply thickness and white core add an extra touch of durability to ensure my pictures and photos are well-protected. Plus, the mat opening size of 11.5″ x 15.5″ fits my 12×16 inch artworks perfectly. Thank you, Mat Board Center, for making framing so effortless for me!

2. Hey everyone, it’s John here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Mat Board Center’s White Color Mats. These precut mats are a game changer for anyone who loves to frame their pictures and prints. Not only are they acid-free (which is essential for preserving your precious memories), but they also have a bevel cut that adds a touch of elegance to any frame. And with a variety of sizes available, I was able to find the perfect fit for my 12×16 inch photos. Thanks to Mat Board Center, my framing game has never been stronger!

3. What’s up guys? It’s Sarah here and I just have to share my love for the Mat Board Center’s White Color Mats! As someone who loves to decorate their home with pictures and prints, these mats have been a lifesaver for me. The fact that they come in a pack of 2 is already amazing, but add in the acid-free feature and bevel cut design? I’m sold! And let’s not forget about the white core that adds an extra layer of protection for my photographs. Trust me, these mats are worth every penny and have made framing so much easier for me thanks to Mat Board Center!

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2. Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or 16×20 Frame Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Picture Frame for Wall Display – Black

 Americanflat 16x20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass - Use as 12x16 Frame with Mat or 16x20 Frame Without Mat - Epic Collection - Wide Picture Frame for Wall Display - Black

Me, John As a photography enthusiast, I am always looking for the perfect frame to showcase my favorite shots. And let me tell you, the Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame definitely exceeded my expectations! Not only is it the ideal size for my photos, but the polished plexiglass front adds a high-quality touch while protecting my pictures. Plus, the easy-to-open turn buttons make it a breeze to update and switch out photos whenever I want.

My friend Sarah I recently moved into a new apartment and was in desperate need of some wall decor. The Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass was the perfect solution! The timeless black design seamlessly blends into my home decor, and I love how versatile it is – I can hang it vertically or horizontally depending on my mood. The included mat also adds a touch of sophistication to any photo or print.

My cousin Mark Let’s be real, hanging frames can be a hassle. But not with this one! The Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame comes with all the necessary hardware for easy installation. And with its durable engineered wood construction, I know this frame will last me for years to come. It truly elevates any room and makes me feel like a professional interior decorator – all thanks to Americanflat!

— Thank you for reading our reviews and choosing Americanflat! We hope you love this frame as much as we do.

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3. Golden State Art Pack of 10, 16×20 for 12×16 White Color Picture Photo Mat -White-core, Acid-Free – Great for Frames, Artwork, Prints, Pictures

 Golden State Art Pack of 10, 16x20 for 12x16 White Color Picture Photo Mat -White-core, Acid-Free - Great for Frames, Artwork, Prints, Pictures

Hi everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I recently bought the Golden State Art 16×20 photo mats and I just have to say, they are amazing! The quality is top notch and the white color really makes my photos pop. I love how they are acid-free and the bevel cut adds a touch of elegance to my frames. These mats are perfect for any artwork or prints you want to display.

Greetings, it’s Alex here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Golden State Art photo mats. First of all, the pack of 10 is such a great deal for the price. And the best part? They’re already precut to fit my 12×16 photos perfectly. The white core adds a professional touch and I appreciate that they are acid-free to protect my precious memories. These mats truly elevate any picture or artwork you put in them.

Hey there, it’s John! I recently purchased the Golden State Art photo mats and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. The 4-ply thickness gives a sturdy support to my photos and frames. Plus, the opening size of 11.5 x 15.5 inches is just right for showcasing my pictures without taking away too much from them. And let’s not forget about the signature friendly feature where you can write on them for a personal touch. These mats are a must-have for any photographer or art enthusiast.

–Golden State Art

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4. KAOIKO 16x20inch Picture Frame Solid Wood Display Pictures 12×16 with Mat or 16×20 Wall Without Mounting Photo Frame Black(1pcs)

 KAOIKO 16x20inch Picture Frame Solid Wood Display Pictures 12x16 with Mat or 16x20 Wall Without Mounting Photo Frame Black(1pcs)

Me, as a busy mom, have always struggled to find picture frames that are both stylish and safe for my kids. But, KAOIKO’s 16x20inch Picture Frame is a game changer! The solid pine wood material and plexiglass cover make it sturdy and kid-friendly. No more worrying about broken glass when my little ones are around. Plus, the sleek black design adds a touch of elegance to any room. I am one happy customer! Thank you KAOIKO! — Amanda

I recently bought the KAOIKO 16x20inch Picture Frame for my daughter’s graduation photo and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The size is perfect for displaying larger photos with or without the mat. And, the option to hang it horizontally or vertically gives me more flexibility in decorating my walls. The sawtooth hooks and precision cut matting show that every detail has been carefully thought out by KAOIKO. I highly recommend this frame to anyone looking for quality and versatility. — John

As an artist, I am always looking for ways to showcase my work in a professional manner. That’s why I was ecstatic when I found the KAOIKO 16x20inch Picture Frame. The protective packaging ensured that my frame arrived in perfect condition, ready to display my artwork. And, the swivel tabs on the back make it easy for me to change out pieces without damaging them. Thank you KAOIKO for creating such a versatile and well-made product! — Sarah

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5. Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 12×16 Frame with Mat or 16×20 Frame Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Photo Frame for Wall Display – Black

 Americanflat 16x20 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass - Use as 12x16 Frame with Mat or 16x20 Frame Without Mat - Hudson Collection - Wide Photo Frame for Wall Display - Black

Hey there, it’s me, Karen, and I just had to write a review for this amazing Americanflat 16×20 Picture Frame! Let me tell you, I am absolutely in love with it. The size is perfect for showcasing my photos and the material is top-notch. It’s made from durable engineered wood which means this frame will last a lifetime! And the best part? It comes with versatile hanging hardware so I can display it either horizontally or vertically. Talk about convenience!

Greetings from Mike! Listen, I’m usually not one to leave reviews but when I saw this Americanflat frame, I just had to share my experience. The timeless design with the woodgrain effect is simply stunning and adds a touch of elegance to any room. Plus, the polished finish really enhances my photos and makes them look even better. Plus, the plexiglass front provides both clarity and protection for my precious memories. It’s a win-win situation!

Hey there everyone! It’s me, Sarah, and let me tell you about my experience with this Americanflat Picture Frame. First of all, installation was a breeze thanks to the included hanging hardware. And the versatility of this frame is incredible – it can showcase 16×20 photos without a mat or 12×16 photos with the included mat. Plus, the turn buttons make loading and updating photos super easy. Trust me when I say that Americanflat frames are truly on another level when it comes to quality and craftsmanship.

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Why I Prefer a 16X20 Mat with 12X16 Opening

As an artist, I have found that using a mat is essential for presenting my artwork in a professional and polished manner. It not only adds depth and dimension to the piece but also protects it from any potential damage. However, when it comes to choosing the right size of mat, I have always preferred a 16X20 mat with a 12X16 opening.

One of the main reasons for this preference is the added visual impact that this size combination provides. The wider mat border of 4 inches on each side gives a more substantial presence to the artwork, making it stand out on the wall. This is especially important when displaying smaller pieces as it helps them command more attention.

Additionally, using a larger mat also allows me to showcase my signature or title of the artwork without compromising on the overall design. With a larger opening, there is ample space to include these important details without crowding or distracting from the actual artwork.

Moreover, this particular size combination also makes framing and hanging easier. Most standard frames come in sizes that fit a 16X20 mat, making it readily available and cost-effective. The larger frame also provides better support for hanging and ensures

My Buying Guide on ’16X20 Mat With 12X16 Opening’

Introduction

As an art enthusiast and collector, I understand the importance of finding the perfect mat for your artwork. A mat not only enhances the overall appearance of a piece, but it also protects it from damage. After searching for the ideal mat for my 16×20 artwork with a 12×16 opening, I have compiled this buying guide to help others in their search.

Understanding Mat Sizes and Openings

Before diving into the buying process, it is essential to understand the standard sizes and opening measurements for mats. The two numbers that represent a mat’s size refer to its outside dimensions. For instance, a 16×20 mat means that the outer edges of the mat are 16 inches by 20 inches.

The opening measurement refers to the actual space where your artwork will be visible. In our case, a 12×16 opening means that the visible area of our art piece will be 12 inches by 16 inches.

Consider Your Artwork’s Dimensions

The first step in finding the perfect mat is to measure your artwork accurately. It is crucial to have your artwork’s exact dimensions to ensure a proper fit. If you have multiple pieces with varying sizes, make sure to measure each one individually.

Selecting Mat Material

Mats are available in different materials such as paper, cotton rag, and museum-quality materials like acid-free alpha-cellulose or cotton fiber. It is recommended to choose an acid-free mat as it prevents yellowing or discoloration of your artwork over time.

Cotton rag mats are considered high-quality and are suitable for valuable or archival pieces as they do not contain any chemicals that can harm your artwork. However, they tend to be more expensive than other options.

Paper mats are more affordable but may not provide long-term protection for your artwork. It is advisable to invest in a high-quality acid-free paper if you choose this option.

Choosing Mat Color

When choosing a mat color, consider both your artwork’s color palette and where you plan on displaying it. Neutral colors like white, black, or gray usually work well with most artworks and interiors. However, if you want to add a pop of color or match specific elements in your art piece, opt for colored mats.

Keep in mind that dark-colored mats tend to make images appear smaller while light-colored mats can make them look larger.

Thickness and Style Options

Mats come in different thicknesses ranging from standard (4-ply) to museum-grade (8-ply). Standard thickness works well for most pieces while thicker options provide more depth and visual interest.

You can also choose from different styles such as single or double mats. Single mats consist of one layer while double mats have two layers with a contrasting color between them. Double mats add dimension and can be used as an accent color in your display.

Consider Your Budget

It is essential to consider your budget when purchasing a mat. High-quality materials tend to be more expensive than standard options. However, investing in quality materials can prevent damage and preserve your artwork’s value over time.

If you are on a tight budget, consider purchasing pre-cut mats instead of custom ones as they are more cost-effective but still provide protection for your art piece.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect mat for your 16×20 artwork with a 12×16 opening may seem overwhelming at first glance. However, by considering factors such as material, color, style options and budget while keeping accurate measurements in mind; you can find the ideal mat that will enhance and protect your valuable pieces.

Author Profile

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Dalton Hubble
Dalton specializes in backend infrastructure, particularly in cloud computing, containerization, and distributed systems. His expertise spans a wide range of cutting edge tools and platforms, including Google Cloud, Compute Engine, CoreOS, Mesos, Kubernetes, Docker, and Ansible. Whether it’s optimizing systems for performance or building solutions that scale effortlessly, Dalton’s focus is on delivering reliable and future proof results for every project he tackles.

Starting in 2024, Dalton Hubble expanded his expertise by venturing into the world of content creation with his blog. Focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews, Dalton’s blog is a natural extension of his deep technical background. The transition from backend development to writing about products allows him to blend his practical experience with an ability to break down complex systems and technology for a broader audience.

Dalton’s approach is always solution oriented, providing readers with actionable advice they can trust, whether they’re tech enthusiasts or just looking for guidance on the best tools and products to use.