The Challenge of Hard-to-Find Frame Sizes (Like 8×16) & Where to Get Them

8×16 Frame – Handmade Vintage Style



If you’ve ever created or purchased artwork in an unusual size, you know that finding a frame can be surprisingly difficult. Consider an 8×16 print as an example. Standard frame sizes dominate craft stores, leaving those of us with unique art pieces scrambling for solutions.



Beyond modern odd sizes, tracking down vintage frames in non-traditional dimensions can be even trickier. However, with a little patience and some insider knowledge, it’s possible to find the perfect frame to complement your artwork.



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Why Are Some Frame Sizes So Hard to Find?





Most commercial frames cater to standard photo sizes (5×7, 8×10, 11×14) or large poster sizes. But many artists, photographers, and printmakers work in sizes outside the norm, including:




* 8×16 (a popular panoramic or tall-narrow format)


* 10×20 (great for elongated compositions)


* 12×24 (a striking format for modern prints)


* Odd vintage sizes like 6×12, 9×18, or custom oval/circle frames







Since these sizes aren’t mass-produced, they’re less likely to show up at big-box retailers, making custom framing or vintage hunting the best solutions.



Where to Find Hard-to-Find Frames





If you’re searching for a unique frame, here are some of the best places to look:



1. Online Frame Shops





Several online retailers specialize in unusual sizes and custom frames. Many offer affordable options if you’re willing to wait for shipping.



(I’ve added links about specific online stores that carry odd-size frames.)



2. Thrift Stores & Estate Sales





Vintage frames come in a wide range of non-standard dimensions. This is especially true for those from the early 1900s when mass-production wasn’t as rigid. Estate sales and secondhand shops are goldmines for ornate, gilded, or handcrafted frames that don’t fit the typical mold.



3. DIY Framing Solutions





If you can’t find the exact size you need, consider:




* Matting down a larger frame (an 11×17 frame can often be matted to fit an 8×16 print).


* Repurposing old frames by cutting them down and reassembling them.


* Using floater frames that allow slight variations in size without needing an exact match.







4. Custom Framing





While custom framing can be expensive, some shops offer affordable solutions for simple wood or metal frames. It’s worth checking local frame shops, as some may have clearance sections with odd-size leftovers at a discount.







Final Thoughts





Finding frames for unique art sizes takes some extra effort. However, the right frame can enhance and elevate a piece dramatically. You may be searching for a rare vintage frame. Or perhaps you want a sleek modern option in an unconventional size. There are ways to make it work.



Stay tuned—I’ll be updating this post with direct links to frame sources and hidden gems for vintage collectors!



Do you have a favorite place to find odd-size frames? Let me know in the comments!


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