You’ve found the perfect piece of art, that spectacular A3 print you can’t wait to display. But now comes the part that can feel surprisingly tricky: choosing the frame. Suddenly, questions arise. What are the exact dimensions in centimetres versus inches? Will a mount make it look more professional? And how do you select a material that protects your print without overpowering the image?
Finding the perfect a3 picture frame should be a joy, not a source of stress. A frame is the essential bridge between your artwork and your décor, a piece of craftsmanship designed to elevate and preserve what’s inside. It’s the final touch that transforms a simple print into a beautiful, personal statement for your home.
Consider this your complete guide. We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know, from demystifying dimensions and materials to offering styling tips that will make your artwork truly shine. Let’s embark on this journey together and find the premium frame your art deserves.
What are the A3 Frame Dimensions? Getting the Basics Right
Embarking on your framing journey begins with a clear understanding of size. A3 is a wonderfully versatile and popular choice, striking the perfect balance for showcasing fine art prints, bold posters, and cherished photographs without overwhelming your space. Its universal appeal stems from the globally recognised ISO 216 international paper size standard, which guarantees that an A3 print will always have consistent dimensions. This standardisation removes the guesswork, ensuring that when you select an A3 piece, you know exactly what you’re working with. Getting these foundational measurements right is the first step toward finding the perfect a3 picture frame to complement your art.
To see these concepts in action and get some practical tips, this helpful video offers a great visual guide to framing.
A3 Size in Millimetres, Centimetres, and Inches
At First 4 Frames, we believe precision is the soul of craftsmanship. To ensure a perfect fit, it’s essential to know the exact dimensions of an A3 sheet. This is the size of your artwork itself, not the final frame. Being familiar with these measurements in millimetres, centimetres, and inches will give you the confidence to select the right frame every time.
Here is a quick-reference conversion guide for the A3 paper size:
- In Millimetres (mm): 297 x 420 mm
- In Centimetres (cm): 29.7 x 42 cm
- In Inches (in): Approximately 11.7 x 16.5 inches
Frame Size vs. Aperture Size: Understanding Mounts
This is a crucial distinction that elevates a simple framed picture into a professionally presented piece of art. When you see a product described as an “A3 frame,” it’s vital to clarify what this means. It can refer to a frame with internal dimensions of exactly 29.7 x 42 cm, designed for your artwork to fit snugly from edge to edge. This style offers a clean, modern, and direct presentation.
However, for a classic, gallery-style look, the term often refers to a larger frame that incorporates a mount (also known as a passe-partout or window mount). This is a high-quality card border that sits between the artwork and the frame. The ‘aperture’, or opening, of this mount is cut precisely to display your A3 print. Using a mount is not just about aesthetics; it also protects your art by creating a small air gap between the print and the glazing. For instance, a common choice is a 40 x 50 cm frame with a mount whose aperture is cut for A3. This added border draws the eye inward, enhances the artwork’s presence, and acts as the perfect bridge between the art and its surroundings.
Choosing the Best Material for Your A3 Picture Frame
The material of your frame does more than just hold the glass; it’s the bridge between your artwork and your room’s decor. The right choice enhances the art, protects it for years, and reflects your personal style. When selecting an a3 picture frame, the material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Let’s explore the most popular options: classic wood, sleek metal, and versatile composite materials.
Solid Wood Frames: Classic, Warm, and Timeless
For a touch of natural beauty and a truly premium feel, nothing compares to solid wood. Crafted with care, these frames offer exceptional durability and a timeless appeal. Available in a variety of beautiful finishes, from the rich tones of oak and walnut to classic painted options, they bring warmth and sophistication to any space. A solid wood frame is the perfect partner for traditional art, fine art prints, and stunning nature photography, celebrating the quality of both the image and the craftsmanship.
Metal & Aluminium Frames: Modern, Sleek, and Minimalist
If your style leans towards the contemporary, a metal or aluminium frame is an excellent choice. Celebrated for their clean lines and minimalist aesthetic, these frames often feature a very thin profile, ensuring the focus remains squarely on your artwork. They are incredibly durable yet surprisingly lightweight, making them easy to hang. Available in popular finishes like matte black, polished silver, and elegant gold, they are ideal for framing posters, graphic prints, and professional certificates.
Composite (Polcore) Frames: Versatile and Budget-Friendly
Offering fantastic value without compromising on style, composite frames are a brilliant and popular choice. Often made from Polcore, an eco-friendly material created from recycled polystyrene, these frames come in a vast array of styles. They can expertly mimic the grain of real wood or offer a perfectly smooth, modern finish in any colour imaginable. While they may not have the same heirloom quality as solid wood, a composite a3 picture frame is a superb, cost-effective solution for decorative prints and posters.
To help you decide, consider the essence of your piece and your decor:
- For warmth and tradition: Choose Solid Wood to add a natural, premium feel.
- For a sharp, modern statement: Choose Metal for its clean, minimalist lines.
- For versatility and value: Choose Composite for an endless choice of styles at a great price.
How to Select the Perfect Style and Colour
Choosing the perfect frame is an art in itself. Think of your frame as the bridge that connects your beautiful artwork to your room’s decor, creating a seamless and harmonious display. The right style and colour will enhance the piece without overpowering it, allowing the art to take centre stage while the frame does the important work of integrating it into your space. From sleek, simple profiles to ornate, traditional designs, the choice you make will define the final look.
Matching the Frame to the Artwork
A simple rule to follow is that the art is the hero, and the frame is its dedicated support. The goal is to complement, not compete. Minimalist prints or modern photography often look spectacular in a simple, thin frame that doesn’t distract from the clean lines. In contrast, classical art or a piece with intricate detail can be beautifully balanced by a more substantial or ornate frame. For a truly professional touch, select a frame colour that picks up on a subtle accent colour within the artwork itself.
Coordinating the Frame with Your Room Decor
A well-chosen frame should feel like a natural part of your room. Take a moment to consider the existing finishes and furniture. Are your door handles brass? Is your furniture made of light oak? Matching your frame to these elements creates a cohesive feel. For maximum versatility, a black or white a3 picture frame is a timeless choice that fits almost any interior style, from contemporary to traditional.
- Wood Frames: Natural wood finishes, like oak or walnut, introduce warmth and texture, perfect for neutral, rustic, or Scandinavian-inspired spaces.
- Black or White Frames: The ultimate chameleons, these frames provide a clean, classic border that works with any colour scheme.
- Metal Frames: Finishes like silver, gold, or brass add a touch of elegance and complement modern, industrial, or glamorous interiors.
When to Use a Mount to Elevate Your A3 Print
A mount, or mat, is the paper-board border that sits between the art and the frame. It serves two key purposes. Aesthetically, it provides visual ‘breathing room’ around your print, drawing the eye inward. Functionally, it separates the artwork from the glazing, protecting it from potential damage caused by condensation. A crisp white mount is a classic choice that lends any print a sophisticated, gallery-quality finish. Need help creating the perfect combination? Explore our bespoke framing options.
Glazing and Backing: Protecting Your A3 Print for Years
When you invest in a beautiful A3 print, the frame does more than just complement the artwork; it serves as its primary protector. The two most critical components for preservation are the glazing (the clear front sheet) and the backing board. While it can be tempting to opt for a budget frame, cheaper materials often contain acids and impurities that can cause irreversible damage to your art over time, from fading to yellowing.
Understanding these components is the key to ensuring your cherished print remains as vibrant as the day you bought it.
Choosing Your Glazing: Glass vs. Acrylic
The glazing is the clear barrier between your print and the world. The choice you make here impacts not only protection but also the final look, weight, and safety of your framed piece. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Standard Glass: Offers perfect, crystal-clear clarity and a satisfying weight that speaks to its quality. It’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making it a timeless choice for most settings.
- Acrylic (Perspex): A lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative. This makes it the perfect option for an a3 picture frame that needs to be shipped, hung in a child’s room, or placed in a high-traffic area. Modern, high-quality acrylic offers excellent clarity with added safety.
For truly valuable or sentimental pieces, consider upgrading to UV-protective glazing. Available in both glass and acrylic, this special coating blocks up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays, the primary cause of fading. It’s a small investment for priceless peace of mind.
The Importance of an Acid-Free Backing Board
What rests behind your print is just as important as what’s in front. The backing board provides structural support, but its material composition is crucial. Many off-the-shelf frames use standard cardboard or MDF, which are full of acids. Over years, these acids migrate into your artwork, causing a damaging process called ‘acid burn’ that leads to permanent yellowing and brittleness.
A professional, high-quality a3 picture frame will always use an acid-free or conservation-grade backing board. This archival-quality material is chemically stable and acts as a protective barrier, ensuring your print remains pristine for decades. It is a non-negotiable feature for anyone serious about preserving their art. At First 4 Frames, all our frames are built with premium, acid-free materials to guarantee the longevity of your artwork. Discover the difference professional craftsmanship makes in our online gallery.
Creative Ways to Display A3 Frames in Your Home
The beauty of the A3 size lies in its remarkable versatility. It’s large enough to make a significant visual impact on its own, yet compact enough to fit gracefully into almost any space, from a cosy reading nook to a spacious hallway. Moving beyond a single, isolated picture can transform your walls into a curated display of your personal style. Here are a few professional techniques to help you arrange your art with confidence and flair.
Create a Symmetrical Pair or Triptych
For a look that is both dramatic and perfectly ordered, consider hanging two or three matching A3 frames side-by-side. This approach works beautifully above a key piece of furniture like a sofa, bed, or console table, creating a strong horizontal line that draws the eye. Use this format to showcase a series of related art prints—such as botanical illustrations or architectural sketches—or even a single panoramic photograph split across the frames. The result is a high-impact, cohesive display that feels intentional and professionally styled.
Use A3 as the Anchor in a Gallery Wall
A sprawling gallery wall can quickly feel cluttered without a clear focal point. An a3 picture frame is the perfect piece to provide structure and prevent visual chaos. Start by placing your largest piece, the A3 frame, in a central or slightly off-centre position. From there, you can build outwards, arranging smaller frames (like A4 and A5), postcards, and other treasures around it. This creates a visual anchor, giving the entire arrangement a sense of purpose and balance that is pleasing to the eye.
Stylish Framing for Certificates and Diplomas
Your hard-earned achievements deserve more than a standard, off-the-shelf frame. Elevate your certificates, diplomas, and awards by presenting them with the sophistication they warrant. An A3 frame, complete with a custom-cut mount, transforms a simple document into a statement piece for your home office or study. Choose a premium frame style—a warm oak to match your desk or a sleek black for a modern aesthetic—to create a truly integrated and professional look. Ready to give your achievements the display they deserve? Get a bespoke framing quote today.
Your Journey to the Perfect A3 Frame Ends Here
As we’ve explored, selecting the right frame for your print goes far beyond simply knowing the dimensions. From choosing a material like warm, traditional wood or sleek, modern aluminium that complements your artwork, to selecting a style and colour that harmonises with your décor, every detail matters. The right glazing and backing are not just finishing touches; they are essential for protecting your cherished piece for years to come. With these insights, you are now perfectly equipped to find a beautiful a3 picture frame that truly does your art justice.
If you’re ready to take the next step, our team of passionate art lovers is here to help. With over 20 years of professional framing experience, we combine time-honoured craftsmanship with high-quality, conservation-grade materials to create bespoke frames that protect and enhance your art. Let our expert advice guide you. Find the perfect frame for your art with our bespoke framing service.
Your masterpiece deserves a spectacular frame. We look forward to helping you create something truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions About A3 Picture Frames
Can I put an A4 print in an A3 frame?
Yes, absolutely. An A3 frame is the perfect choice for showcasing an A4 print with a beautiful, professional-looking mount. The mount, or passe-partout, creates a border that draws the eye towards the artwork and prevents it from touching the glass. This is a classic gallery technique that gives your smaller artwork more presence and a truly spectacular finish on your wall, protecting it while enhancing its visual appeal.
What is the difference between an A3 poster frame and a picture frame?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, the main difference lies in the craftsmanship and materials. Poster frames are typically lighter, often made with plastic or MDF and perspex, designed for more temporary displays. A premium A3 picture frame is built for longevity, crafted from quality materials like solid wood with proper glass glazing. It provides a sturdier, more elegant home designed to protect and enhance fine art for years to come.
How do I measure my artwork correctly for an A3 frame?
For a perfect, hassle-free fit, precision is key. Lay your artwork on a clean, flat surface and use a steel ruler or firm tape measure to find its exact height and width. An official A3 paper size is 297 x 420mm (29.7 x 42cm). If your art matches these dimensions, it will fit snugly inside the frame without a mount. For any other size, measure carefully to ensure you choose the correct bespoke mount aperture.
Are black or white A3 frames more popular?
Both black and white frames are timelessly popular, each offering a distinct aesthetic. A black frame creates a bold, classic contrast that makes the colours within your artwork truly pop. A white frame provides a clean, contemporary feel, perfect for minimalist interiors or creating an airy, bright look. The best choice is the one that acts as the perfect bridge between your artwork and your room’s décor, so consider which will best complement your personal style.
Is it better to buy an A3 frame with or without a mount included?
This depends on the final look you wish to achieve. If your artwork is A3 size and you want a full-bleed, edge-to-edge presentation, a frame without a mount is ideal. However, including a mount adds a layer of professional sophistication, creates protective space between the art and the glass, and allows you to elegantly display a smaller piece within the frame. For a truly polished, gallery-worthy display, we almost always recommend using a mount.
How can I hang a heavy wooden A3 frame safely?
To hang a heavier wooden frame securely, we advise against using a single nail. The safest method is to fix two D-rings to the back of the frame, about one-third of the way down from the top on each side. Then, install two corresponding picture hooks or screws with appropriate wall plugs into your wall, making sure they are perfectly level. This two-point hanging system distributes the weight evenly and ensures your beautiful frame remains stable and secure.
