9 Best Frames For Art Prints in 2026
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For most artists and decorators, the MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame is the best overall choice because its shatter-resistant plexiglass protects valuable prints and its easy turn-button back makes swapping artwork quick. We also recommend the Americanflat 24×36 Poster Frame for oversized pieces and the upsimples 11×14 Picture Frame for budget-friendly framing.
Choosing the right frame for an art print means balancing protection, display quality, and fit. A frame that distorts colors, scratches easily, or can’t hold the print securely undermines the artwork itself.
This guide is based on a careful review of manufacturer specifications, expert framing advice, and patterns in owner feedback. We focus on the features that matter most for displaying prints: materials, sizing, and ease of use.
Top 9 Frames For Art Prints in the Market
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The Best Frames For Art Prints, Reviewed
MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame
What We Like
- Shatter-resistant plexiglass protects art
- Easy turn-button back for quick loading
- Hangs horizontal or vertical
- Durable MDF wood construction
Trade-offs
- Only holds art up to 0.75 inches thick
- Too small for larger 24×36 posters
A 1.1-inch wide profile and shatter-resistant plexiglass front make this frame a practical choice for protecting art prints without the weight or fragility of glass. The MDF wood construction feels sturdy enough for a gallery wall, and the turn-button back lets you swap prints in seconds. For anyone framing a standard 16×20 poster or artwork, this delivers a clean traditional look that keeps your piece safe and centered.
The plexiglass front won’t break during shipping or handling, which is a practical advantage for wall displays. Compared to the Craig Frames 16×20 Picture Frame, which includes a mat for smaller photos and a heavier build, this MCS frame is lighter and simpler. It’s better suited for large prints you want to display quickly. If you need a mat or a thicker backing, that other option might fit better, but for a straightforward poster frame at this size, this one nails the essentials.
Americanflat 24×36 Poster Frame
What We Like
- Wide molding for oversized prints
- Polished plexiglass front protects art
- Hangs vertical or horizontal
- Sawtooth hangers and turn-tab backing
Trade-offs
- 4.6 pounds needs sturdy wall anchors
- Plexiglass scratches more easily than glass
A 24×36 inch frame is the go-to size for posters, movie prints, and large art reproductions, and this Americanflat model delivers a wide engineered-wood molding that gives those oversize pieces a substantial, gallery-like presence. The polished plexiglass front keeps the artwork visible without the weight and fragility of real glass, while the included sawtooth hangers and turn-tab backing make mounting quick whether you hang it vertically or horizontally. For anyone who wants to display a statement print without building a custom frame, this is a practical, ready-to-hang solution that treats the art with respect.
Plexiglass, though lighter and safer for shipping, can develop fine scratches over time if you handle it often or clean it with the wrong cloth. But the wide molding and engineered-wood build give it a more substantial look that suits a dedicated gallery wall or a single oversized focal point.
Craig Frames 16×20 Picture Frame
What We Like
- White mat for 11×14 art included
- Rustic barnwood-laminate finish
- Acrylic facing is lightweight and safe
- Hangs portrait or landscape
Trade-offs
- 9.0 pounds requires sturdy wall anchor
- Acrylic scratches more easily than glass
A 2-inch-wide barnwood-laminate moulding gives this frame a sturdy, farmhouse look that stands out on the wall, while the included white mat lets you display an 11×14 print with a classic border. Remove the mat and the frame holds a full 16×20 image, so you can swap artwork sizes without buying a second frame. This flexibility makes it a smart pick for anyone who wants one frame to serve both standard and matted art prints, especially if you lean toward rustic or country decor.
At 9.0 pounds, this frame weighs about eight pounds more than the MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame. You will want to use a wall anchor rated for that weight and pick a spot with solid drywall or a stud. The clear acrylic facing is included instead of glass, which keeps the overall package lighter during handling. The MCS Studio frame is a lighter option for simple gallery walls, while the Craig Frames offers a mat for an 11×14 photo and a barnwood-look finish for a more substantial feel.
ArtToFrames 8×10 Satin Black Picture Frame
What We Like
- Custom deep red mat included
- Acid-free mat protects art
- Sawtooth hanger for wall mounting
- Fits standard 8×10 photos
Trade-offs
- Regular glass can reflect glare
- MDF frame is heavier than wood
- Only one mat color option included
The deep red 4-ply acid-free mat is the standout feature here, it adds a bold, gallery-like contrast that makes an 8×10 art print feel intentional and framed with care. The acid-free material means your print won’t yellow or degrade over time. For artists or collectors who want their piece to pop against a saturated color, this frame delivers a look that feels curated.
The regular glass can catch reflections in bright rooms, and the MDF construction adds noticeable weight (2.8 pounds) for a relatively small frame. Compared to the lighter MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame in black woodgrain, this one feels more substantial on the wall but less forgiving if you need to move it often. The single mat color also locks you into a specific aesthetic, if red isn’t your palette, you’re stuck. Best for someone who values a custom mat over lightweight flexibility.
Product photos

Craig Frames Custom Picture Frame
What We Like
- Built to any size in quarter-inch increments
- Photo size equals frame size, no matting needed
- Six modern finishes for decor matching
- USA made to order
Trade-offs
- Larger sizes use plexiglass instead of glass
- No pre-cut mat option for non-standard photo ratios
You pick any size from 4×4 up to 30×40 in quarter-inch increments, so an oddly proportioned print drops straight into the frame without trimming or custom matting. The 1-inch profile comes in six finishes, which makes matching a gallery wall or a single statement piece straightforward. For anyone who works with non-standard print sizes, this removes the hunt for a frame that almost fits.
The frame uses durable engineered wood, and smaller sizes ship with glass while larger ones use lightweight plexiglass that can scratch more easily. Compared to the fixed-size MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame, this custom option costs more in both time and money, but it gives you an exact fit for your artwork. If your print collection includes odd dimensions, this frame matches them without extra work.
upsimples 11×14 Picture Frame
What We Like
- Double size design with included mat
- Spring action backing for easy mounting
- Protective packaging prevents damage
- Classic black finish suits any decor
Trade-offs
- Display size 0.5 inch smaller than photo
- Single frame only, not a multi-pack
- Only one color option (black)
The double-size design lets you display an 11×14 print without a mat or an 8×10 print with a mat, so one frame covers two common photo sizes. That flexibility is handy when you’re building a gallery wall or just framing a favorite print without buying separate frames. The spring-type backing makes removing the back quick, and the protective packaging helps ensure it arrives undamaged.
The display opening is half an inch smaller than your photo size, which keeps the print stable but crops a sliver off the edges. That’s something to consider if your art has important detail near the border. It’s a straightforward frame for prints that fit its intended sizes.
LaVie Home 11×17 Picture Frame
What We Like
- HD plexiglass prevents injury from breakage
- Lightweight design for easy hanging
- Classic black suits most decor styles
- Protective film and corner protectors included
Trade-offs
- Only one size (11×17) limits print options
- No mat included for smaller artwork
The switch from traditional glass to high-definition plexiglass is the defining feature here. It eliminates the risk of sharp shards if the frame gets knocked off the wall or bumped during handling, making it a smart pick for homes with kids, pets, or high-traffic hallways. At 11×17 inches, this black frame is sized for standard posters and medium art prints, and its lightweight build means you can hang it with basic hardware without worrying about wall damage. The classic black profile stays out of the way visually, letting your print take center stage, which suits anyone who wants a simple, safe display option.
The LaVie Home 11×17 picture frame uses high-definition plexiglass instead of traditional glass, which means you won’t have to worry about injuries from accidental breakage. The classic black design blends easily with any decor, so the frame works as a subtle accent rather than a standout piece. Reviewers note the lightweight build makes hanging it vertical or horizontal on the wall a simple task.
Product photos

upsimples 11×14 Picture Frame Set of 5
What We Like
- Accepts 8×10 photos with mat or 11×14 without mat
- HD plastic cover is safe if dropped
- Set of 5 frames for gallery wall
Trade-offs
- Frame opening crops 0.5 in of photo edges
- Plastic cover scratches more easily than glass
Five frames in one box means you can fill a whole gallery wall without buying each frame separately. Each frame accepts an 8×10 photo with the included mat or an 11×14 print without it, giving you two display options from a single set. The HD plastic cover is shatter-resistant, so if a frame falls off the wall, you won’t worry about sharp glass near kids or pets.
Product photos

Americanflat 24×36 Slim Poster Frame
What We Like
- Slim 0.7-inch profile for large 24×36 prints
- Polished plexiglass front for clear display
- Hangs both vertical and horizontal
- Sawtooth hangers included for easy mounting
Trade-offs
- PVC frame feels less premium than engineered wood
- At 6.1 lb, needs sturdy wall anchors for large size
A 0.7-inch slim profile on a 24×36 frame means this Americanflat keeps the focus squarely on your art print, not the border. The polished plexiglass front offers a clean, glare-reduced view while keeping the overall weight manageable at just over six pounds. For anyone hanging a large poster or print in a gallery wall or tight hallway, the included sawtooth hangers and turn-tab backing make installation straightforward, whether you go vertical or horizontal. This is a practical, modern solution for large-scale artwork where you want a minimal frame that doesn’t steal the show.
The trade-off comes in the material: PVC molding is lighter than engineered wood, but the Americanflat 24×36 Poster Frame (engineered wood) weighs 4.6 pounds, while this PVC version weighs 6.1 pounds, so it’s actually heavier. The plexiglass front is polished for a clean look, but it’s not glass. If you prefer a frame with a different material feel, the engineered wood version is an alternative, but it has a different weight and profile.
Product photos

How We Evaluated Frames For Art Prints
Our evaluation draws from manufacturer specifications, professional framing standards, and common feedback from art print owners. We looked at what makes a frame protect and present artwork well, not just how it looks on a wall.
The four criteria that mattered most were glazing material (plexiglass vs. Glass), frame construction (MDF, wood, or PVC), backing and hanging hardware, and matting options. Plexiglass is lighter and safer but scratches more easily, while glass offers clarity at the cost of weight and breakage risk. Frame material affects durability and the overall feel of the piece.
An evaluation like this identifies the patterns that matter most to buyers. We prioritized frames with clear specifications and consistent owner feedback about fit and finish.
What To Look For In Frames For Art Prints
Choosing a frame for your art print starts with knowing your print’s exact dimensions and thickness. The right frame protects the paper, complements the image, and hangs securely.
Measure your print’s dimensions and thickness first. Then choose a frame with appropriate glazing, a sturdy backing, and hardware that matches your wall type.
Glazing: Plexiglass vs. Glass
The glazing is the transparent cover that protects your print. Plexiglass (acrylic) is shatter-resistant and lightweight, making it ideal for larger prints or homes with children and pets. However, it scratches more easily and can develop static that attracts dust. Glass offers superior optical clarity and scratch resistance but is heavier and can break if dropped. For valuable or archival prints, look for UV-protective glazing that reduces fading.
Frame Material and Construction
The frame’s material affects its weight, durability, and visual weight on the wall. Engineered wood (MDF) offers a solid, premium feel at a moderate price point. Solid wood is more expensive but can be refinished. PVC or plastic frames are lightweight and affordable but feel less substantial. Pay attention to the frame’s depth (or rabbet depth), it must be deep enough to hold your print, mat, and backing board without bowing.
Matting and Backing
A mat creates visual breathing room between the print and the frame, and an acid-free mat prevents yellowing and damage over time. Some frames include a mat that allows you to switch between two print sizes (e.g., an 11×14 frame with a mat that fits an 8×10 print). The backing should be stiff enough to keep the print flat and secure. Look for easy-access backs (turn buttons or spring clips) that let you swap artwork without removing hardware.
- Measure your print’s exact dimensions, including thickness.
- Decide between plexiglass (safe, light) and glass (clear, scratch-resistant).
- Check the frame’s rabbet depth against your print stack.
- Look for acid-free matting if you plan to use a mat.
- Choose hanging hardware rated for your wall’s weight load.
A frame that protects your art first and decorates your wall second.
Frames For Art Prints Compared
The table below compares all nine frames side by side, highlighting their glazing, material, and best use cases so you can find the right fit for your print.
| Product | Size | Material | Hanging |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame | 16×20 inches | MDF wood, plexiglass | Sawtooth hangers included |
| Americanflat 24×36 Poster Frame | 24×36 inches | Engineered wood (MDF) | Vertical or horizontal |
| Craig Frames 16×20 Picture Frame | 16×20 inches | MDF with barnwood-laminate | portrait or landscape |
| ArtToFrames 8×10 Satin Black Picture Frame | 14×16 inches | MDF | sawtooth hanger |
| Craig Frames Custom Picture Frame | 4×4 up to 30×40 | engineered wood | portrait or landscape |
| upsimples 11×14 Picture Frame | 11×14 | Sturdy frame | hang H or V |
| LaVie Home 11×17 Picture Frame | 17 x 11 x 1 inches | HD plexiglass | Vertical or horizontal |
| upsimples 11×14 Picture Frame Set of 5 | 11×14 in | HD plastic cover | horizontal or vertical |
| Americanflat 24×36 Slim Poster Frame | 36 x 24 x 0.7 in | PVC with polished plexiglass | Vertical or horizontal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size frame do I need for an art print?
Choose a frame that matches your print’s exact outer dimensions. If you want a mat, select a frame one size larger than your print (for example, an 11×14 frame for an 8×10 print).
Is plexiglass or glass better for framing art prints?
Plexiglass is safer, lighter, and shatter-resistant, making it ideal for large prints and busy homes. Glass offers better scratch resistance and optical clarity but is heavier and can break.
How do I frame an art print without a mat?
Use a frame where the print size matches the frame opening exactly. Some frames, like the Craig Frames Custom Picture Frame, are built to your print’s dimensions so no mat is needed.
Can I use a poster frame for a valuable art print?
Poster frames often use plexiglass and lighter materials, which may not provide the archival protection needed for valuable prints. For valuable pieces, choose a frame with UV-protective glass and acid-free matting.
What does acid-free matting mean for art prints?
Acid-free matting is made from materials that do not release acids over time, preventing yellowing, staining, and deterioration of your art print. It is essential for preserving the print’s quality.
The Bottom Line
For most artists and decorators building a gallery wall, the MCS Studio Gallery Poster Frame is the best overall choice. Its shatter-resistant plexiglass and easy turn-button back make it practical for swapping prints, and the durable MDF construction provides a solid, professional look.
If you are framing a large 24×36 poster, the Americanflat 24×36 Poster Frame offers the wide molding and polished plexiglass needed for oversized pieces. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the upsimples 11×14 Picture Frame, which includes a double-size mat for two print sizes at an affordable price.
The single most important factor when buying a frame for art prints is choosing the correct size and glazing for your specific print. Measure carefully, decide between plexiglass and glass, and your artwork will look its best for years.





