Picture frames are one of those household items that seem straightforward until you actually stand in front of the wall trying to decide which one to buy. The choice becomes more complicated when you realize frames come in multiple size options, some include mats and some don't, and the terminology can feel confusing. If you're considering a frame like the Americanflat 22x28 Poster Frame matted to 18x24, understanding what those numbers mean and whether it suits your needs is the first step.

What Those Numbers Actually Mean

When you see a frame described as 22x28 with a mat size of 18x24, you're looking at two different measurements. The outer frame itself measures 22 inches by 28 inches. This is the overall size of the frame that will hang on your wall. The mat—that cardboard-like border inside the frame—has an opening of 18 by 24 inches, with the actual mat dimensions being 17.5 by 23.5 inches.

The mat serves a practical purpose beyond aesthetics. It creates a buffer between your artwork or photograph and the plexiglass covering, which helps protect your image from dust and moisture. The mat also adds depth and visual interest to your display, creating what many people recognize as a gallery-style presentation.

Understanding Frame Display Options

One thing people often overlook when selecting a frame is how flexible it actually is. The Americanflat 22x28 frame can display photos or artwork in two different ways. You can place an 18 by 24 inch image directly behind the mat, or you can use a full 22 by 28 inch image without the mat. This flexibility means a single frame can work for different types of displays depending on what you have on hand.

Before you purchase, measure or gather your actual artwork. If you're framing family photos, they typically come in standard sizes like 8x10, 11x14, or 16x20. An 18x24 matted display works well for posters, larger photographs, or artwork that originally came in that size. If you have a 22x28 piece, you'll want to use the frame without the mat.

Material and Construction Considerations

The Americanflat 22x28 Poster Frame is constructed from engineered wood (MDF) with a black woodgrain-inspired finish. Engineered wood is a practical choice for frames because it's lighter than solid wood, which matters when you're hanging something on a wall. It's also more affordable than solid hardwood while maintaining a polished appearance.

The frame features a 1.1 inch wide border, which falls into the medium-wide category. A wider border tends to work well in living rooms, galleries, or office spaces where you want the frame to be a noticeable design element. In smaller bedrooms or tight spaces, you might prefer frames with narrower borders, but that depends on your personal style and wall space.

The plexiglass covering is included and provides protection for your artwork while allowing visibility. Plexiglass is more affordable than true glass and less fragile, though it can scratch over time with regular cleaning.

Installation and Wall Mounting

One practical aspect worth mentioning is installation. The Americanflat 22x28 frame comes with hanging hardware that supports both vertical and horizontal placement. This means you have flexibility in how you orient your artwork. Before you mount it, locate a wall stud if you're hanging anything heavier than a light frame, especially if you're displaying multiple frames together.

Caring for Your Frame

To keep your Americanflat 22x28 frame looking good over time, dust it occasionally with a soft cloth. If you need to clean the plexiglass, use a microfiber cloth or soft cotton rather than rough materials that might scratch it. Avoid placing frames in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can fade both the mat and your artwork over time.

The engineered wood finish is relatively low-maintenance. Wipe away dust with a dry cloth, and avoid excessive moisture or heat sources. This frame should remain in good condition with minimal care for years.

The product in this guide: Americanflat 22x28 Poster Frame - Matted to 18x24 - Engineered Wood - Black