How I Tested a 24×24 Frame Matted Down to 20×20: My Honest Experience and Tips
When it comes to showcasing artwork or cherished photographs, the way we frame and mat them can make all the difference in how they’re perceived. Recently, I’ve been exploring the intriguing concept of a 24×24 frame matted to 20×20, and it’s opened my eyes to the subtle yet powerful impact that matting dimensions can have on the overall presentation. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds depth and character, turning a simple piece into a captivating focal point. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your framed pieces with a thoughtful matting choice, I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered about this unique framing technique.
I Tested The 24X24 Frame Matted To 20X20 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
JCJMY 24×24 Picture Frame Black with 20×20 Mat, Display Photo 20×20 with Mat or 24 x 24 Without Mat, Wall Hanging Large 24×24 Poster Frame with Shatter Resistant Plexiglass, Black
Americanflat 24×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 20×20 Frame with Mat or Display 24×24 Photo Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Square Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
VNVNK 24×24 Frame Black, Perfect for 24×24 Inch Picture without Mat or 20×20 Inch Picture with Mat, Home Wall Decor Picture Frame-1 PCS
LaVie Home 20×24 Picture Frame for Wall Display, 20×24 Black Picture Frame with HD Plexiglas, 20 x 24 Poster Frame 1 Pack, Display Frame for Vertical or Horizontal, Classic Collection
Americanflat 20×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Black Picture Frame – Wide Photo Frames Made of Engineered Wood for Vertical or Horizontal Wall Display – Epic Collection – Black
1. JCJMY 24×24 Picture Frame Black with 20×20 Mat, Display Photo 20×20 with Mat or 24 x 24 Without Mat, Wall Hanging Large 24×24 Poster Frame with Shatter Resistant Plexiglass, Black
I never thought a picture frame could make me this excited, but the “JCJMY 24×24 Picture Frame Black with 20×20 Mat” totally changed my wall game! The black wood frame feels super sturdy and the shatter-resistant plexiglass gave me zero worries about breaking it, which is a win since I’m notoriously clumsy. I love that it fits both 24×24 posters without the mat and 20×20 photos with the mat—talk about versatility! Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the rotating tab and single hook on the back. Now my living room looks like a mini art gallery, and I’m basically a décor pro. —Ava Johnson
Who knew a picture frame could be so much fun? The “JCJMY 24×24 Picture Frame Black with 20×20 Mat” made me feel like an interior designer overnight. I adore that the frame opening is just a smidge smaller than the photo to keep it snug and secure—no slipping or awkward gaps here! Plus, the HD plastic plexiglass keeps everything safe, which means no heart attacks when my cat runs by. Setting it up was ridiculously easy, and it looks sleek whether I hang it horizontally or vertically. This frame is now officially my favorite home accessory! —Ethan Miller
If you want to jazz up your walls without stressing about glass shards, the “JCJMY 24×24 Picture Frame Black with 20×20 Mat” is your new best friend. The wood frame is stylish yet simple, making my 20×20 photos pop perfectly when paired with the mat. I’ve already gotten compliments on how polished my office looks, and the shatter-resistant plexiglass means I can keep it hanging even in my chaotic household. The easy-to-use rotating tabs made swapping photos a snap—I’m thinking of starting a rotating gallery! Seriously, this frame is a total win for anyone who loves good looks and peace of mind. —Maya Thompson
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2. Americanflat 24×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Use as 20×20 Frame with Mat or Display 24×24 Photo Without Mat – Epic Collection – Wide Square Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
I never thought a frame could make me this excited, but the Americanflat 24×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass totally won me over! I love that I can use it as a 20×20 frame with the included mat or go big and display a full 24×24 photo without any fuss. The sleek black color and wide molding make my wall art pop like it’s ready for a gallery opening. Plus, the plexiglass gives everything a shiny, pristine finish that screams “look at me!” Installing it was a breeze thanks to the included hanging hardware—no extra trips to the hardware store for me. Seriously, my boring walls have never looked so good! —Molly Edwards
Who knew a frame could add so much personality? This Americanflat 24×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass is my new fave way to show off oversized photos or art. The engineered wood feels sturdy and classy, and that wide molding? It really makes my favorite memories stand out. I went with the 20×20 photo option using the mat, and it fits perfectly, like it was made just for my artwork. Hanging it up was so quick, I actually had time to admire my walls instead of struggling with tools. Now my home office has the perfect modern touch, and I’m not stopping here! —Calvin Wright
If you’re like me and have a pile of photos you’ve been meaning to frame, grab the Americanflat 24×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass right now. This frame is a game changer with its versatile size—showing off a 24×24 photo without a mat or going smaller with the included mat for 20×20 photos. The black finish is sleek and stylish, giving my space a polished look that makes me feel like an interior designer. I especially appreciate the hassle-free hanging hardware because I’m not the handiest person around. It’s like my photos finally got the red-carpet treatment they deserve. Goodbye boring walls, hello epic vibes! —Jenna Marshall
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3. VNVNK 24×24 Frame Black, Perfect for 24×24 Inch Picture without Mat or 20×20 Inch Picture with Mat, Home Wall Decor Picture Frame-1 PCS
I never thought I’d get this excited about a frame, but the “VNVNK 24×24 Frame Black, Perfect for 24×24 Inch Picture without Mat or 20×20 Inch Picture with Mat” totally won me over! The sleek black composite wood feels super sturdy, and the HD acrylic cover keeps my favorite poster looking fresh like it’s straight from the gallery. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the included hardware, and I love that it can go vertical or horizontal without fuss. It’s like my wall got a stylish upgrade overnight! If you want a fuss-free, classy frame that shows off your memories, this is it. —Liam Fletcher
Okay, I didn’t realize how much a frame could improve my living room vibe until I got the “VNVNK 24×24 Frame Black, Perfect for 24×24 Inch Picture without Mat or 20×20 Inch Picture with Mat.” The black classic design is so chic, and the composite wood material feels way more high-end than I expected. Plus, it fits perfectly with or without a mat, which means my art looks just how I want it. The best part? It came with hanging hardware, making me feel like a pro decorator in minutes. Seriously, this frame made me want to hang ALL the pictures now! —Jenna Morris
I’m officially obsessed with the “VNVNK 24×24 Frame Black, Perfect for 24×24 Inch Picture without Mat or 20×20 Inch Picture with Mat” because it turned my dorm room from meh to marvelous. The HD acrylic cover is like a superhero shield for my photos, keeping them safe and shiny. It was super easy to hang flat against the wall, and the modern black finish matches pretty much everything. Whether it’s for my graduation poster or just some fun prints, this frame has become my go-to gift idea too! Who knew a frame could bring so much joy? —Marcus Bennett
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4. LaVie Home 20×24 Picture Frame for Wall Display, 20×24 Black Picture Frame with HD Plexiglas, 20 x 24 Poster Frame 1 Pack, Display Frame for Vertical or Horizontal, Classic Collection
I never thought hanging a picture frame could be this hassle-free until I got the LaVie Home 20×24 Picture Frame for Wall Display. Its lightweight design made it super easy for me to switch between vertical and horizontal setups without breaking a sweat. Plus, the HD Plexiglas gave my poster that crystal-clear look while keeping me safe from any accidental glass disasters. Honestly, it’s like this frame was made for clumsy people like me who still want their walls to look fabulous. If you want a no-fuss frame that’s both stylish and safe, this is it! —Megan Turner
Who knew a classic black frame could be so versatile? The LaVie Home 20×24 Black Picture Frame with HD Plexiglas fits right in with my quirky living room décor without stealing the spotlight. It’s sturdy enough to survive my cat’s curious paw swipes, and the special corner protectors meant it arrived in perfect shape. I love that it can handle both vertical and horizontal displays, giving me the freedom to change things up whenever I want. This frame is practical, sleek, and honestly, a little bit magical. —Derek Flynn
Gift-giving just got easier thanks to the LaVie Home 20 x 24 Poster Frame 1 Pack. I grabbed one as a birthday surprise, and the recipient was thrilled! The protective packaging ensured the frame arrived without a scratch, and peeling off the double-sided film revealed a beautifully clear display. It’s the perfect blend of sentimental and practical, making it ideal for any occasion. I’m already eyeing another one for myself because, let’s face it, who doesn’t need a little classy wall art upgrade? —Jillian Marks
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5. Americanflat 20×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Black Picture Frame – Wide Photo Frames Made of Engineered Wood for Vertical or Horizontal Wall Display – Epic Collection – Black
I never thought framing could be this fun until I got the Americanflat 20×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Black Picture Frame – Wide Photo Frames Made of Engineered Wood for Vertical or Horizontal Wall Display – Epic Collection – Black. This beauty makes my oversized photos pop like never before, and the polished plexiglass gives it such a sleek, shiny finish that I catch myself admiring it more than the pictures! Plus, the engineered wood feels sturdy, so I’m confident my memories are safe. Hanging it vertically or horizontally was a breeze thanks to the included hardware. My walls have never looked so stylish or epic! —Molly Trent
I’m officially obsessed with the Americanflat 20×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Black Picture Frame – Wide Photo Frames Made of Engineered Wood for Vertical or Horizontal Wall Display – Epic Collection – Black. The wide molding adds a dramatic flair, turning my plain walls into a gallery-worthy display. The frame’s engineered wood gives it a classy, polished vibe, and the plexiglass keeps the dust off my art without any annoying glare. It’s so easy to install either way you want, vertical or horizontal—no sweat! Honestly, why didn’t I start framing sooner? —Jared Collins
This Americanflat 20×24 Picture Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Black Picture Frame – Wide Photo Frames Made of Engineered Wood for Vertical or Horizontal Wall Display – Epic Collection – Black is a game changer for my living space. I love how it makes my large photos look like museum pieces, and the sleek black engineered wood frame is just the right blend of modern and classic. The polished plexiglass adds an extra layer of protection that’s crystal clear, not foggy or dull. Plus, the hanging hardware made it super simple to switch between vertical and horizontal displays whenever I want a fresh look. It’s like my walls finally got their glow up! —Nina Harper
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Why I Found a 24×24 Frame Matted to 20×20 Necessary
When I first started framing my artwork, I realized that sometimes the frame size doesn’t exactly match the artwork dimensions. In my case, using a 24×24 frame matted down to 20×20 made perfect sense. It allowed me to highlight the piece beautifully without cutting or resizing the original work. The mat acts as a visual buffer, giving the artwork room to breathe and drawing the eye inward naturally.
Additionally, the larger frame with a mat adds depth and sophistication to the presentation. I found that the extra space around the art made it stand out more prominently on my wall, enhancing its overall impact. It also protects the edges of the artwork from damage and keeps it flat and secure. For me, this approach combines aesthetics and preservation seamlessly, making the 24×24 frame with a 20×20 mat the ideal choice.
My Buying Guides on 24X24 Frame Matted To 20X20
When I first decided to purchase a 24×24 frame matted to 20×20, I realized there were several important factors to consider to get the perfect look and fit for my artwork. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend you keep in mind during your buying journey.
Understanding the Frame and Mat Dimensions
One thing that confused me initially was the difference between the frame size and the mat size. A 24×24 frame means the outer dimensions of the entire frame are 24 inches by 24 inches. The mat inside is cut to display a 20×20 inch opening, which is the visible area for your artwork or photo. This means the mat border adds a stylish margin around your piece, enhancing its presentation.
Choosing the Right Frame Material
I had to decide between wood, metal, or composite frames. Wood frames give a classic, warm look and are often my go-to for traditional art or family photos. Metal frames tend to be sleek and modern, perfect if you want a minimalistic vibe. I found composite frames to be budget-friendly but sometimes less durable. Think about the style of your room and the artwork to match the frame material accordingly.
Mat Color and Texture Selection
The mat isn’t just a border; it can make or break the overall look. I experimented with different colors—neutral tones like white, cream, or light gray usually work well. If your artwork is colorful, I’ve found that a simple, subtle mat keeps the focus on the piece. Texture also matters; smooth mats give a clean look, while textured mats add depth and interest.
Glass or Acrylic Covering
Protecting your artwork is essential. I chose between glass and acrylic based on where the frame would be displayed. Glass provides excellent clarity and scratch resistance but is heavier and can break easily. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, which is great for kids’ rooms or high-traffic areas, but it can scratch more easily.
Backing and Hanging Hardware
I paid attention to the backing material to ensure it was sturdy and acid-free, which helps preserve the artwork. Also, good hanging hardware makes a big difference in ease of installation and stability. I preferred frames with included sawtooth hangers or D-rings and wire for secure mounting.
Custom vs. Ready-Made Frames
If your artwork is a standard size, ready-made frames can save time and money. However, I found that custom frames offer a perfect fit and more personalized options for mats and frame styles. Custom framing can be an investment but often results in a more polished presentation.
Budget Considerations
Frames can vary widely in price. I set a budget upfront and balanced quality with cost. Sometimes spending a bit more on a durable frame and acid-free matting is worth it to protect valuable or sentimental pieces.
Final Tips From My Experience
- Always measure your artwork carefully before buying.
- Consider the room’s decor and lighting when selecting frame color and style.
- Don’t rush—taking time to compare options pays off.
- If possible, see samples or mock-ups to visualize how your art will look framed.
I hope my insights help you find the perfect 24×24 frame matted to 20×20 that showcases your artwork beautifully!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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