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Category: Framing Tips
Finding the right A3 picture frame size is more than just matching numbers. It is about ensuring your artwork, photo, or poster is displayed beautifully while staying well-protected. Many people get confused between the actual A3 paper dimensions and the size of the photo frame needed. Especially when using a picture mount. That’s where this guide comes in.
In this article, we’ll explain the exact A3 dimensions in millimeters (mm), centimeters (cm), and inches, and show you how to choose the right picture frame, both with and without a picture mount. We’ll also provide practical examples and tables to make the process clear and simple. So that you never end up with a picture frame that’s too tight or too loose.
As a brand in the picture framing industry, we’ve been helping customers find the perfect frame for over 28 years. Whether you’re framing certificates, posters, professional artwork, or any other item, this guide provides detailed information about A3 photo frames. Moreover, it will also help you select the best option for your space.
One of the most common mistakes people make is assuming that the dimensions of an A3 print are the same as the dimensions of an A3 photo frame. In reality, the frame you need depends on whether you’re displaying the print directly or adding a mount around it. Getting this right makes the difference between a polished, professional look and a display that feels awkward or unprotected.
A correctly sized picture frame doesn’t just improve appearance; it also enhances it. It also plays a vital role in protecting your artwork. A frame that’s too loose can allow the print to shift and become damaged. At the same time, one that’s too tight can cause scratches over time.
The right frame ensures your piece stays flat, secure, and ready to enjoy for years.
Before choosing a picture frame, it is very important to understand the true size of an A3 print. A3 is a part of the ISO 216 international paper standard. It ensures consistent sizing across documents, photos, and artwork.
The exact dimensions of the A3 size are:
| Size Standard | Millimetres (mm) | Centimetres (cm) | Inches (in) |
| A3 | 297 × 420 mm | 29.7 × 42.0 cm | 11.7 × 16.5 in |
These numbers represent the size of the paper or artwork itself. The photo frame you choose may be the same size (if framing without a mount) or larger (if you're adding a mount or decorative border).
Being aware of this difference is crucial in preventing a frequent error. If you purchase a photo frame marked "A3" without verifying whether it is intended for direct artwork placement or if it allows for additional space for a mounting board, you may encounter problems.
When it comes to displaying A3 artwork, certificates, or posters, the choice of picture frame style makes a big difference. The two most common approaches are framing your A3 print directly or using a mount (sometimes called a mat or border) to enhance the display.
If you want a direct fit, an A3 picture frame measures exactly 29.7 × 42 cm (11.7 × 16.5 in). This option is ideal for a clean and modern presentation. It is often used for certificates, posters, and photographs where you want the image to fill the full space.
Browse our full range of A3 Picture Frames available at Alison Kingsgate.
Finding the right picture frame size can be critical when displaying a work of art or a photograph, particularly when it is A3 sized. The commonly preferred size for an A3 frame is 17x12 inches, ( in cm 29.7 x 42.0 cm and in mm 297 mm x 420) though other sizes may be used depending on whether a border or mount will be used.
A3 Frame size in cm is 29.7 x 42. This is a common size in UK for certificates, small posters, photo and pictures.
The A3 frame size in millimeters is 297 × 420 mm. This standard dimension is ideal for framing artwork, prints, or professional documents, ensuring a perfect fit for your display needs.
The A3 frame size in inches measures 11.7 × 16.5 inches. This size is perfect for showcasing photographs, illustrations, or creative projects with a clean, professional presentation.
A3 Frame without mount" The best solution is purchasing an A3 frame precisely measuring for and intended to hold images at 11.7 × 16.5 Inches (approx) , (297x420mm and 29.7 × 42 cm) . It is best used when there is no intention of adding extra space around the edges.
A3 Frame with a mount": A large number of individuals prefer a mount"(decorative border) that elevates the image for an even more dignified appearance. Here, you are required to pick a frame measuring 17x12 inches ( 40.64 × 30.48 cm and 304.8 × 406.4 mm ) to accommodate the mount as well as the A3 image. The outline of the mount increases the dimension by a few inches which helps to accent the entire image within the frame.
Choosing the right size frame is important not only from the aesthetic value but from the point of view of protecting your artwork. The frame must not be oversized or undersized because too much space results in the image moving freely which can damage the art piece while with too tight it leads to scrapes and scratches as well as failure to display properly. Alison Kingsgate offers a wide selection of photo and picture frames tailored to your preferences, be it A3 sized works or other dimensions.
An artwork’s frame serves as a protective covering, but its importance is deeper. A work of art can be enhanced with an appropriate frame by elevating its beauty and emphasizing its details. To illustrate, a 17x12 inch frame with a mount will increase the impact of the focal point in the masterpiece conversely, a 16x20 inch frame will allow the artwork to breathe, enveloping it in space so that it dominates any room.
Looking for the perfect frame for your photo? Properly framing a certificate, poster or artwork requires knowledge of picture frame sizes A1, A2, A3, A4 or A5, as this ensures both presentation and protection.
Consult this handy guide and start making the right choices every time. Using our mount or flush mounting, from scale A1 posters to A5 photo prints, selecting a frame that matches the exact dimensions will help ensure that there will be no gaps, nor tight edges. Here at Alison Kingsgate, we offer premium, customizable, ready to hang frames in every standard size which allows you to make framing neat, elegant, and stress free.
| Size | cm | mm | Inches |
| A1 | 59.4 × 84.1 | 594 × 841 | 23.4 ×33.1 |
| A2 | 42 × 59.4 | 420 × 594 | 16.5 × 23.4 |
| A3 | 29.7 × 42 | 297 × 420 | 11.7 × 16.5 |
| A4 | 21 × 29.7 | 210 × 297 | 8.3 × 11.7 |
| A5 | 14.8 × 21 | 148 × 210 | 5.8 × 8.3 |
Alison Kingsgate offers a wide range of A3 photo frames and picture frames crafted from sturdy and high-quality materials. Each frame is designed for long-lasting use and a clean, professional look. We also offer made-to-measure frames. When you use our made-to-measure option, you have the choice of selecting your size in cm, mm, or inches, allowing you to choose the exact size and style that fits your space or project.
Our online store is easy to use and includes all available frame sizes and styles, making it simple to find the right A3 frame for your photo, poster, or certificate. From modern to classic designs, there's something to suit every interior.
For A3 prints (297mm x 420mm), the most popular frame size is 16 x 12 inches with a mount. If you're not using a mount, the exact size frame you'll need is 297mm x 420mm, matching the A3 dimensions.
All our frames include clear acrylic to protect your picture and give it a smooth, clean finish. Alison Kingsgate offers high-quality, accurate sizing and a simple ordering process for all A1, A2, A3, A4, and custom sizes for framing needs.
Browse our collection today and find the perfect frame.
