WORKSHOP GUIDE · 02
An 8 × 10 frame: opening versus recess.
A standard frame needs two different openings. The front lip covers the edge of the artwork; the larger recess behind it holds the complete package. Using one measurement for both is an easy way to get a poor fit.
Measure the whole package
For this landscape example, choose “Design a frame,” “Standard frame,” and inches. Enter width 10″, height 8″, and package depth 3/8″. Package depth means the combined thickness of everything placed in the recess, including any glazing, mat, artwork, and backing. Measure the largest component’s outside dimensions; a print with a mat needs the mat’s size, not just the printed image.
Use 1 1/2″ face width, 3/4″ total wood depth, 1/8″ artwork overlap per side, 1/16″ fitting clearance per side, and 1/8″ room for fasteners. Leave automatic recess depth enabled. These are example inputs, not a promise that every package or fastening system needs this allowance.
Three rectangles to keep separate
- Visible front opening: 9 3/4″ × 7 3/4″. Subtract twice the artwork overlap from the package.
- Back recess: 10 1/8″ × 8 1/8″. Add twice the fitting clearance to the package.
- Outside frame: 12 3/4″ × 10 3/4″. Add twice the face width to the visible opening.
The routed rabbet is 3/16″ wide: 1/8″ overlap + 1/16″ clearance. Its depth is 1/2″, leaving 1/4″ of wood at the front. Changing fitting clearance changes the recess, not the chosen overlap or outside size.
Use the front-opening edge for the short points
| Piece | Qty | Short point | Long point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top + bottom | 2 | 9 3/4″ | 12 3/4″ |
| Left + right | 2 | 7 3/4″ | 10 3/4″ |
Here the short-point dimensions match the visible front opening. Both ends of every rail are mitered at 45°. The long-point length is 3″ longer than its short-point length because each end spans the full 1 1/2″ face width.
Check before assembly
Dry-fit the actual package in the routed recess and confirm your selected retainers fit without pressing on the artwork or glazing. Check that the lip covers the edges as intended. The calculator does not choose conservation materials, glazing thickness, structural joinery, or hanging hardware; those decisions depend on the finished frame and contents.