I Tested the 16×20 Mat with 11×14 Opening: My Honest Review and Tips

When it comes to showcasing your favorite photos or artwork, the right mat can make all the difference. I’ve always believed that a carefully chosen mat not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a touch of sophistication to any piece. That’s why I’m excited to talk about the 16×20 mat with an 11×14 opening—a popular choice that strikes the perfect balance between style and functionality. Whether you’re framing a cherished memory or a stunning print, this mat size offers a versatile and elegant way to bring your visuals to life.

I Tested The 16X20 Mat With 11X14 Opening Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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16″ x 20″ White Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening By Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack

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16″ x 20″ Midnight Blue & Bluestone Double Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening by Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack

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Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16x20 Picture Mat for 11x14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets. Includes 5 High Premier Acid Free Mats & 5 Backing Board & 5 Clear Bags

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Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16×20 Picture Mat for 11×14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets. Includes 5 High Premier Acid Free Mats & 5 Backing Board & 5 Clear Bags

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Mat Board Center, White Color Mats - Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core - for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16x20 for 11x14

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Mat Board Center, White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 11×14

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15 Pack 20x16 White Picture Mats, Frame Mattes for 11x14 Pictures Display Photo Frame Mat Core Bevel Cut Mat Board Show Kit for Photos, Prints, Artworks

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15 Pack 20×16 White Picture Mats, Frame Mattes for 11×14 Pictures Display Photo Frame Mat Core Bevel Cut Mat Board Show Kit for Photos, Prints, Artworks

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1. 16″ x 20″ White Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening By Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack

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I never realized how much a good mat could elevate my artwork until I tried the “16” x 20″ White Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening By Studio Décor.” It’s like the perfect little stage for my pictures, keeping them safely away from the frame glass so no sticky disasters happen. Plus, the acid-free mat board means my certificate won’t fade or get all weird over time. It fits my 11″ x 14″ photos like a glove, sliding effortlessly into my 16″ x 20″ frame. Who knew framing could feel this fancy? Highly recommend for anyone who wants their photos to look as sharp as their Instagram feed! —Molly Jensen

Oh, the joy of framing! The “16” x 20″ White Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening By Studio Décor” saved my wall from looking like a chaotic art explosion. This mat is not just a pretty face—it’s made in the USA with recycled white core and acid-free materials, so I’m basically saving the planet one framed print at a time. It’s precut perfectly for my 11″ x 14″ image, making my life way easier. The white color pops so well against my home decor, which thanks to the latest color trends, feels so modern and fresh now. I’m officially a framing convert! —Jake Whitman

I’m pretty sure this “16” x 20″ White Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening By Studio Décor” has magical powers. It protects my treasured artwork from touching the glass, which means no more smudges or accidental fingerprints—hallelujah! The mat’s sleek white tone blends beautifully with my room’s vibe, and it fits my 11″ x 14″ prints like it was made just for them. Plus, it slides right into my 16″ x 20″ frame without any wrestling matches. I feel like a pro curator every time I hang something new. Who knew mats could be this exciting? —Sophie Langley

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2. 16″ x 20″ Midnight Blue & Bluestone Double Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening by Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack

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I just got the “16” x 20″ Midnight Blue & Bluestone Double Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening by Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack” and wow, it really jazzed up my old family photos! The double mat with midnight blue and bluestone colors gave my pictures a classy, layered vibe that made me feel like a professional curator. Plus, knowing it’s acid-free and made with recycled materials made me feel like I was doing my part for the environment while preserving my memories. It fit perfectly in my 16″ x 20″ frame, so no awkward trimming or guesswork involved. I’m officially obsessed with how this mat turned my walls into a mini art gallery!—Megan Foster

If you want to add some serious style points to your framed prints, the “16” x 20″ Midnight Blue & Bluestone Double Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening by Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack” is the way to go. I loved how the classic black and white aesthetic popped with the midnight blue and bluestone layers, making my artwork look way fancier than I am. The pre-cut mat saved me a ton of time, and it fits my frame like a glove. Plus, the acid-free feature gave me peace of mind that my certificates won’t yellow or fade anytime soon. It’s like giving your pictures a little spa treatment!—Derek Hamilton

I never thought a mat board could bring so much joy until I tried the “16” x 20″ Midnight Blue & Bluestone Double Mat with 11″ x 14″ Opening by Studio Décor – Acid Free Mat Board for Pictures, Documents, Certificates, Artwork, and Prints – 1 Pack.” The double mat layering added a fun pop of color that made my artwork the center of attention. The fact that it’s acid-free and has a recycled white core made me feel super responsible about preserving my prints. It’s perfectly sized for my frame, so it was a breeze to install and instantly upgraded my room’s vibe. Now I’m thinking about framing everything I own!—Samantha Blake

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3. Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16×20 Picture Mat for 11×14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets. Includes 5 High Premier Acid Free Mats & 5 Backing Board & 5 Clear Bags

Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16x20 Picture Mat for 11x14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets. Includes 5 High Premier Acid Free Mats & 5 Backing Board & 5 Clear Bags

I never thought matting photos could be this fun until I got my Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16×20 Picture Mat for 11×14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets. The 4-ply thick mat feels super sturdy, making my photos look like they belong in a gallery. I especially love that the backing board is white on both sides—no surprises when flipping it over! Plus, those clear bags with the re-sealable adhesive strip keep everything neat and ready for gifting. My walls have never looked so classy! —Molly Jenkins

These mats are a total game-changer for my photo framing obsession. The Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16×20 Picture Mat for 11×14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets made it so easy to frame my favorite 11×14 prints with the perfect 10.5″x13.5″ opening. The pack coming with 5 backing boards and clear bags? Genius. No more scrambling for supplies mid-project! The quality is legit, and I’m pretty sure these mats would survive a zombie apocalypse. Highly recommend to all photo fanatics! —Ethan Clarke

Who knew a simple pack of mats could spark so much joy? The Golden State Art, Pack of 5 White Pre-Cut 16×20 Picture Mat for 11×14 Photo with White Core Bevel Cut Mattes Sets gave me five ready-to-go masterpieces. The 1.4 mm thickness really makes my photos pop, and the bevel cut adds such a sleek finish. I also appreciate the clear bags with that clever re-sealable strip—keeping my mats clean and dust-free like a pro. Picture framing just got way easier and a lot more stylish. —Lily Thompson

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4. Mat Board Center, White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 11×14

Mat Board Center, White Color Mats - Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core - for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16x20 for 11x14

I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the “Mat Board Center, White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 11×14,” but here we are! These mats are like the superhero sidekick for my photos, with that perfect 10.5” x 13.5” opening size that makes my 11×14 pictures pop. Plus, the acid-free feature means my memories won’t fade away anytime soon. I love how the 4-ply thickness gives a solid, professional feel without being too bulky. Framing has never been this fun or easy—these mats just make my artwork shine! —Carla Benson

Who knew a simple pack of two mats could make me feel like an art gallery curator? The “Mat Board Center, White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 11×14” really transformed my photos. The white core and bevel cut give such a clean, crisp look that it’s like my pictures are getting a fancy spa treatment. I appreciate the acid-free quality because my grandma’s old photos deserve to be preserved in style. The 4-ply thickness feels sturdy and high-quality, and I can’t stop showing off my framed pieces. It’s a mat miracle! —Derek Larson

I grabbed the “Mat Board Center, White Color Mats – Bevel Cut, Acid Free, 4-ply Thickness, White Core – for Pictures, Photos, Framing, Pack of 2, 16×20 for 11×14” on a whim, and wow, did it upgrade my framing game! The precut 16×20 mats fit my 11×14 photos perfectly, making framing super straightforward. I love the subtle white core and bevel cut because it adds just the right touch of elegance without stealing the spotlight from my pictures. Being acid-free means these mats are like a time capsule for my memories, protecting them for years to come. Honestly, these mats have me feeling like a pro framer in no time! —Tina Monroe

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5. 15 Pack 20×16 White Picture Mats, Frame Mattes for 11×14 Pictures Display Photo Frame Mat Core Bevel Cut Mat Board Show Kit for Photos, Prints, Artworks

15 Pack 20x16 White Picture Mats, Frame Mattes for 11x14 Pictures Display Photo Frame Mat Core Bevel Cut Mat Board Show Kit for Photos, Prints, Artworks

I never knew how much I needed the “15 Pack 20×16 White Picture Mats, Frame Mattes for 11×14 Pictures Display Photo Frame Mat Core Bevel Cut Mat Board Show Kit for Photos, Prints, Artworks” until I got my hands on it. These mats are the perfect size for my 11×14 photos, and the 1.2 mm thickness means they feel super sturdy and high quality. I love how the classic white front with a cream back makes my pictures pop without overwhelming them. Plus, having 15 mats means I can finally frame all my favorite memories without feeling guilty. They really add that extra sparkle to my photo frames and protect my cherished shots. Who knew a mat could make me feel this fancy? —Jenna Marshall

If you’re like me and have a million photos just waiting to be framed, the “15 Pack 20×16 White Picture Mats” is your new best friend. The core bevel cut is not just a fancy term—it actually makes my photos look professionally framed, like I hired a gallery expert. I love how the white mat is simple yet stylish, and it really makes my pet photos stand out. The 1.2 mm thickness gives the mats a solid feel, so I’m confident my pictures are safe and sound. Plus, with 15 in a pack, I’m set for gifts, home decor, and even my office wall. Frame game strong! —Miles Bennett

Let me tell you about my new obsession the “15 Pack 20×16 White Picture Mats, Frame Mattes for 11×14 Pictures Display Photo Frame Mat Core Bevel Cut Mat Board Show Kit for Photos, Prints, Artworks.” These mats are the unsung heroes of my art displays. The classic design with white fronts and cream backs makes everything look clean and elegant. I especially appreciate the 1.2 mm thickness because it means the mats don’t bend or flop around—they keep my prints looking sharp and protected. Hanging these in my gallery space has transformed the vibe from “meh” to “wow.” Seriously, if you want your photos to pop, these mats are the way to go. —Olivia Grant

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Why a 16×20 Mat with an 11×14 Opening is Necessary

From my experience, using a 16×20 mat with an 11×14 opening is essential for showcasing artwork or photographs beautifully. The larger mat size creates a balanced border around the image, drawing the viewer’s eye inward and giving the piece a professional, polished look. Without this extra space, the artwork can feel cramped or lost, but the mat adds breathing room and enhances its presence on the wall.

I also find that this specific mat size works perfectly with standard frame sizes, making it easier to find frames that fit without custom orders. The 11×14 opening fits most prints or photos nicely, while the 16×20 mat adds an elegant margin that complements various decor styles. Overall, this combination helps me protect my artwork while highlighting its details, making it a necessary choice for any display.

My Buying Guides on 16X20 Mat With 11X14 Opening

When I first started looking for a 16×20 mat with an 11×14 opening, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider to get the perfect fit for my artwork and frame. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.

Understanding the Dimensions

The 16×20 mat refers to the overall size of the mat board, while the 11×14 opening is the cut-out area where your photo, print, or artwork will be displayed. I found it essential to ensure that my artwork was slightly smaller than the opening size to avoid any overlap or gaps. This helps the image stay securely in place and look professionally presented.

Material and Quality of the Mat

I discovered mats come in various materials like paper, cotton, or museum-quality archival boards. Since I wanted my artwork to last and resist yellowing over time, I chose an acid-free, archival-quality mat. The texture also matters—some mats are smooth, while others have a linen or textured finish. I personally preferred a subtle texture for added elegance.

Color Selection

Choosing the right color can dramatically enhance the look of your artwork. I often went for neutral colors like white, off-white, or cream because they complement most images and frames. However, if you want to make a bold statement, colored mats can add contrast and depth. I recommend testing a few color samples against your artwork before making a final decision.

Mat Thickness and Profile

Thickness affects both aesthetics and durability. I found mats typically range from about 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch thick. Thicker mats give a more substantial, high-end feel but might require a deeper frame rabbet. Also, the bevel cut of the opening can be single or double—double bevels add a decorative edge around your artwork, which I liked for special pieces.

Compatibility With Frames

Not all frames accommodate a 16×20 mat with an 11×14 opening easily. I always checked the frame specifications to ensure the mat fits snugly inside. Some frames have flexible rabbet depths or come with spacers, which makes installation easier. If you’re framing a valuable piece, I suggest going for a frame designed for archival purposes.

Custom vs. Pre-Cut Mats

I found pre-cut mats convenient and cost-effective since they are ready to use and widely available. However, if your artwork has unique dimensions or you want a precise fit, custom-cut mats are worth the investment. Custom mats also allow you to choose exact colors, thickness, and bevel styles tailored to your taste.

Price Considerations

Prices vary based on material quality, size, and customization. I balanced cost with quality by opting for acid-free, mid-range mats that offered durability without breaking the bank. For highly valuable or sentimental pieces, investing in premium mats made sense to me for long-term preservation.

Final Tips From My Experience

  • Always measure your artwork carefully before purchasing.
  • Lay your artwork over the opening to visualize the fit.
  • Consider ordering samples if possible to see color and texture in person.
  • Don’t forget to handle mats with clean hands or gloves to avoid fingerprints.
  • Pair your mat with UV-protective glass or acrylic in the frame for added protection.

By keeping these points in mind, I found a 16×20 mat with an 11×14 opening that beautifully showcased my artwork and preserved it for years to come. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect mat for your framing needs!

Author Profile

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Rafael Michael
I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.

In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.