A picture mount (sometimes called a photo mount or mount board) is the border you often see surrounding a photo or print inside a frame. It sits between the image and the glass, helping to highlight the artwork while protecting it from damage.

Not only do mounts enhance the visual appeal of framed images, they also serve a practical purpose - keeping photos flat, centred, and safely away from the glazing. If you’ve ever admired a professionally framed picture and wondered what gives it that polished finish, chances are a good mount had a lot to do with it.

Let’s take a closer look at picture mounts, including what they’re called in the US, how to measure them, and what to use if you’re not using one.

What is a Photo Frame Mat?

A photo frame mat (or “mat board”) is simply the US term for a picture mount. In both cases, we’re talking about a cut piece of card or board with a central aperture, placed on top of the photo or print, inside the frame. Same purpose, same product - just different words from across the pond.

What Does a Photo Frame Mount Do?

A photo frame mount's primary purpose is to provide a visual buffer between the artwork and the frame. But it does more than just look nice - it plays a crucial role in both presentation and preservation.

Here’s what it offers:

  1. Visual enhancement: The border draws the eye to the photo and makes it stand out, especially against darker or more detailed backgrounds.
  2. Balance and proportion: A mount can help add to the visual weight of smaller photos, making them look more substantial in larger frames.
  3. Protection: It prevents the photo or print from touching the glass, reducing moisture build-up, smudging, and sticking.
  4. Support: Keeps artwork flat, secure, and neatly in place inside the frame.

Mounts also offer space for captioning, signing, or personalization, great for gifts or retail products.

How to Measure for a Picture Mount

Whether you’re creating custom picture mounts or simply want to give your artwork some breathing space, the key is getting the measurements right. Well-proportioned mount borders not only make framed artwork look more professional but also ensure a snug fit inside the frame.

If you're reselling mounted prints or ordering bespoke frames, accuracy is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Measure the Artwork

Lay your artwork flat and measure the exact width and height of the area you want visible. If your image has any white space or borders you don’t want to include, trim or exclude them before measuring. Precision is important, especially for professional mounting.

2. Decide on the Border Width

This is the visible space between the edge of the artwork and the mount opening. Standard borders range from 1.5 to 3 inches (3.8 to 7.6cm). A wider bottom border can create a gallery-style look, and small prints often benefit from a broader mount style for balance.

3. Calculate the Mount Size

To find the mount’s outer dimensions (which should match your frame's internal size):

  • Mount width = picture width + (2 × border width)
  • Mount height = picture height + (2 × border width)
  • Example: If your picture is 10 × 12 inches (25 × 30cm) and you want a 2-inch (5cm) border, the mount size should be 14 × 16 inches (36 × 41cm).

4. Calculate the Aperture Size

The aperture cut is the cut-out window through which the artwork is visible. It should be slightly smaller than the artwork to hold it securely, usually 2–5mm less on each edge.

  • Example: For a 5 × 7 inch (13 × 18cm) photo, the aperture might be cut at 4.75 × 6.75 inches (12 × 17cm) to keep the image in place and hide any uneven edges.

5. Consider the Frame Size

The mount’s outer dimensions must match your frame’s internal dimensions. If you're using an existing frame, measure the back opening to confirm the fit. Allow for a slight overlap of about 1/8 inch (3mm), so the mount doesn’t shift once fitted.

Professional Tip

If you're a retailer or reseller, consider stocking standard mount sizes (such as 8x10", 10x12", or A4) that suit popular photo formats. 

At Adventa, we supply a wide range of acrylic and glass photo frames that complement mounted prints beautifully. Whether you need off-the-shelf sizes or want to create a custom display range, we can help you bring your ideas to life.

How Thick Should a Photo Frame Mount Be?

Most standard picture mounts are made from between 1.4mm and 3mm-thick board. The 1.4mm is common for affordable or basic framing jobs, while 2mm+ gives a more premium, gallery-style look. Double mounts (two stacked layers) can also be used to add a little extra depth or decorative layering.

What Can I Use Instead of a Photo Frame Mount?

While mounts are the go-to choice for professional framing, you might consider alternatives for certain projects:

  • Floating frames: Where the image appears to “float” inside the frame without touching the edges
  • Spacer tape: A discreet adhesive that creates space between the photo and glass without using a visible mount
  • Printed borders: Some prints include a white or colored margin directly on the image

For gifts, keyrings, seasonal tree ornaments, or modern display products, mounts aren’t always necessary, and working with a manufacturer like Adventa gives you the flexibility to design for both classic and modern preferences.

Looking for Picture Mounts?

Whether you're framing a cherished photo or curating a product line of mounted prints, understanding picture mounts makes all the difference. Offering both aesthetics and protection, a well-chosen mount adds polish and professionalism to any framed piece.

If you’re a retailer or supplier looking to offer high-quality frame products, Adventa can help. 

Explore our full range of wall art solutions, or get in touch at +1 551 587 7789 to discuss mount-compatible formats that will add to your retail offering.