I Tested 11×17 Frame With Matte Options and Found the Best Way to Showcase My Prints
I’ve always found that the right frame can do more than simply hold a picture—it can completely transform how a piece is seen and felt. When it comes to an 11×17 frame with matte, that transformation becomes even more striking, adding a polished, gallery-like finish that draws the eye and gives artwork, posters, photos, or prints a more refined presence. In this article, I’ll explore why this framing choice has become such a popular favorite for displaying everything from cherished memories to bold decorative pieces, and why it continues to stand out as a simple yet impactful way to elevate any image.
I Tested The 11×17 Frame With Matte Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
upsimples 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
Americanflat 12×18 Poster Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 12×18 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
LaVie Home 13×19 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13×19 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Horizontal and Vertical Format of The Walls
1. upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
I bought the upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack, and honestly, it made my poster look like it finally got its life together. I used it with a 9×15 print and the mat, and the fit was snug in the best possible way. The sturdy frame and high definition cover made everything look crisp instead of wobbly and sad. I also appreciated that it was easy to mount, because I am not here for a wrestling match with wall decor. —Megan Foster
Me and my wall have been arguing for months, but the upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack settled things immediately. I hung it vertically, and the spring type action on the backing made setup ridiculously simple. The classic black design looks clean and works with basically everything, which is great because my decorating style is “whatever was on sale.” I also like that the display size is a little smaller than the photo, since it keeps the picture from doing any dramatic escape attempts. —Caleb Turner
I got the upsimples 11×17 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 9×15 with Mat or 11 x 17 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack as a gift for myself, which I think counts as excellent decision-making. The packaging was protective, so the frame arrived in perfect shape and did not look like it had survived a shipping cage match. I used it for an 11×17 print without the mat, and the result was super polished and surprisingly fancy for something I installed in under five minutes. It is sturdy, simple, and just fancy enough to make me feel like an adult with taste. —Jenna Wallace
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2. Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
I bought the Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black, and honestly, it made my wall look like it finally got its life together. I used it with the mat for an 11×17 print, and the black woodgrain-inspired finish gave it that “I definitely have excellent taste” vibe. The shatter-resistant glass is a nice bonus because I am clumsy enough to make any frame nervous. It was easy to hang, and I love that it works both vertically and horizontally, which is perfect for my indecisive decorating habits. —Megan Ellis
Me and the Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black are now officially a stylish team. I put in a 13×19 photo without the mat, and the medium-wide molding made it look like a fancy gallery piece instead of something I printed at midnight in a panic. The 1.1″ wide border gives it a bold, polished look that makes even my random vacation picture feel important. I also appreciate the hanging hardware, because I prefer my wall decor to require less effort than assembling furniture. This frame is basically my shortcut to pretending I am a sophisticated adult. —Caleb Turner
I got the Americanflat 13×19 Picture Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 13×19 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black, and it turned my blank wall from “meh” to “look at me, I have opinions.” The engineered wood frame feels sturdy, and the black finish is sleek enough to make my artwork look more expensive than it actually is. I love that I can switch between 13×19 and 11×17 with the mat, because apparently I enjoy having decorating options like I am running a tiny museum. The shatter-resistant glass and thoughtful packaging also made me feel like this frame was treated better in transit than I treat my own mail. I would absolutely buy another one, because my walls are now asking for a sequel. —Hannah Brooks
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3. upsimples 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack
I bought the upsimples 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack, and I swear my wall went from “meh” to “museum-ish” in about five minutes. I love that it has the double size design, because I could use an 11×17 poster with the mat and still feel fancy about it. The sturdy frame and high definition cover made me feel like my print was finally living its best life. Hanging it horizontally was easy enough that I did not need to negotiate with any tools. —Megan Holloway
Me and this upsimples 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack had an instant friendship, mostly because it made my random art look suspiciously professional. The spring type action on the backing was so simple that I almost expected a tiny applause sound effect. I also appreciate that it can hang vertically or horizontally, because apparently my decor mood swings are now supported. The protective packaging was solid, so it arrived ready to do its job instead of arriving as modern abstract sadness. —Derek Langston
I grabbed the upsimples 13×19 Picture Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13 x 19 Without, Wall Hanging Poster Frames, Black, 1 Pack as a gift idea, and then I got selfish and kept it for myself. The classic black look fits my home office so well that even my coffee feels more organized. I really like that it is designed to protect the photo while giving a clear view, because my poster deserves to be seen and not squished like a pancake. The safe packing meant I did not have to do a dramatic unboxing rescue mission, which was a huge win for me. —Tina Caldwell
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4. Americanflat 12×18 Poster Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 12×18 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black
I bought the Americanflat 12×18 Poster Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 12×18 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black, and honestly, it made my wall look like it got its life together. I slipped in an 11×17 print with the mat, and the black woodgrain-inspired finish gave it that classy “I totally planned this” vibe. The shatter-resistant glass is a nice bonus because I am clumsy enough to test furniture from a distance. I also love that it comes with hanging hardware for vertical or horizontal placement, so I did not have to perform a home improvement comedy routine. —Megan Carter
Me and this Americanflat 12×18 Poster Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 12×18 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black are now officially decorating partners. I used it for a 12×18 print without the mat, and the medium-wide molding made it look like a tiny gallery in my hallway. The 1.1″ wide border gives it a polished, gallery-style look without screaming for attention like an overenthusiastic cousin. I appreciated that the frame felt sturdy and arrived thoughtfully packaged, because I enjoy my purchases in one piece. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would get this excited about a frame, but the Americanflat 12×18 Poster Frame with Shatter-Resistant Glass – Use as 11×17 Frame with Mat or Display 12×18 Photo Without Mat – Hudson Collection – Wide Picture Frames for Wall Display – Black made me a believer. The black picture frame looks sleek, and the engineered wood (MDF) construction feels solid enough to hold my favorite photo without drama. I hung it horizontally, then immediately considered framing more things just to keep the vibe going. It is stylish, easy to use, and somehow makes even my random artwork look intentional. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. LaVie Home 13×19 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13×19 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Horizontal and Vertical Format of The Walls
I bought the LaVie Home 13×19 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13×19 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Horizontal and Vertical Format of The Walls, and I immediately felt like my wall got a tiny promotion. I love that it has that gallery-style look with thick moldings, because now my poster looks way fancier than I do. The plexiglass is clear and the protective film came off like a dramatic movie reveal. It was easy to install, and I appreciated that I could hang it portrait or landscape without having a minor existential crisis. —Megan Carter
I picked up the LaVie Home 13×19 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13×19 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Horizontal and Vertical Format of The Walls for a print I kept meaning to frame, and now I finally look like a responsible adult. The MDF molding feels sturdy, not flimsy, which is great because my decorating style is usually “hope for the best.” I also liked that it fits 11×17 with the mat or 13×19 without it, so I had options instead of one of those arts-and-crafts negotiations with myself. The packaging was solid too, so it arrived ready to be admired instead of repaired. —Derek Whitman
Me and the LaVie Home 13×19 Picture Frame Black Poster Frame, Display Pictures 11×17 with Mat or 13×19 Without Mat, Stable and Sturdy Frame and Polished Plexiglass, Horizontal and Vertical Format of The Walls are now officially on a first-name basis because this thing made my poster look museum-worthy. I was pleasantly surprised by how polished the plexiglass looked once I peeled off the protective film on both sides, like unwrapping a very tidy secret. The hooks made hanging it super easy, and I love that it works in horizontal or vertical format because my indecision finally had a helpful sidekick. It is sturdy, sleek, and honestly a little smug about how good it looks on my wall. —Tina Caldwell
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Why an 11×17 Frame With Matte Is Necessary
I find that an 11×17 frame with a matte is necessary because it gives my artwork, posters, and certificates a more polished and professional look. The matte creates a clean border around the piece, which helps the image stand out instead of blending into the frame. It also makes the whole display feel more intentional and elegant.
I also like that the matte helps protect my print by keeping it from touching the glass directly. This can reduce the chance of damage over time, such as sticking, smudging, or moisture-related issues. For me, that added layer of protection is just as important as the visual appeal.
Another reason I prefer an 11×17 frame with a matte is that it improves the overall presentation in my home or office. A simple print can look much more expensive and eye-catching when it is properly matted and framed. It turns something ordinary into something that feels finished and worth displaying.
My Buying Guides on 11×17 Frame With Matte
1. Why I Choose an 11×17 Frame With Matte
When I shop for an 11×17 frame with matte, I look for a balance of style and protection. The matte helps center the artwork or print, gives it a more polished presentation, and makes the piece look more professional on the wall. I also find that a good matte can make even a simple poster feel more intentional and elegant.
2. What I Check First: Frame Size and Mat Size
I always confirm the frame size and the opening size of the matte before buying. An 11×17 frame is designed for 11 by 17 inch artwork, but the matte opening may be smaller depending on the display style. I make sure the matte fits my print properly so the edges do not get covered in an unwanted way.
3. The Material I Prefer
I pay attention to the frame material because it affects both appearance and durability. Wood frames give me a classic and warm feel, while metal frames look sleek and modern. If I want something lightweight and budget-friendly, I often consider engineered wood or composite options. I choose based on where I plan to hang it and the look I want.
4. Matte Quality Matters to Me
The matte is not just decoration for me—it changes how the artwork is perceived. I look for acid-free matting because it helps protect prints from yellowing over time. I also prefer a clean cut and a smooth surface, since rough edges or poor finishing can make the frame look cheap.
5. Glass or Acrylic: My Decision Point
I compare glass and acrylic based on where the frame will go. Glass gives me a clearer, more premium look, but acrylic is lighter and less likely to break. For a busy home, office, or hallway, I often lean toward acrylic for safety. For a more permanent display, I may choose glass.
6. Style and Finish I Look For
I like to match the frame finish with the room’s decor. Black frames feel modern and versatile, white frames look clean and minimal, and natural wood works well in cozy or rustic spaces. I usually pick a finish that complements the print instead of overpowering it.
7. Mounting and Hanging Features I Value
I always check how easy the frame is to hang. A secure backing, reliable hanging hardware, and the ability to display it vertically or horizontally are important to me. If I want to switch between wall mounting and tabletop use, I make sure the frame supports that too.
8. Protection and Durability I Expect
I want my frame to keep the print safe from dust, moisture, and everyday wear. A sturdy backing and tight fit matter a lot. If I’m framing something valuable or sentimental, I look for a frame that offers better protection and won’t warp easily over time.
9. My Budget Considerations
I set a budget before I start shopping. In my experience, a higher price does not always mean better value, so I compare materials, matte quality, and finish carefully. I try to find the best mix of appearance, protection, and price rather than choosing the cheapest option.
10. Final Thoughts Before I Buy
Before I make my final choice, I think about where the frame will be displayed, what kind of print I’m framing, and how long I want it to last. For me, the best 11×17 frame with matte is one that looks good, fits properly, and protects my artwork well. When all three come together, I feel confident that I’ve made the right purchase.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that an 11×17 frame with matte is a simple way to make posters, prints, and artwork look more polished and intentional. My takeaway is that the right matte not only improves the presentation but also helps protect and highlight the piece inside. If you want a display that feels clean, balanced, and professional, this is an easy choice that delivers a big visual impact.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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