How I Tested Converting 8×18 Inch Photos Matted to 8×8 Inch: My Honest Experience
When I first came across the concept of an 8×18 inch print matted down to 8×8 inches, I was intrigued by the unique blend of size and presentation it offered. It’s not just about resizing a photo or artwork; it’s about creating a visual experience that draws you in, focusing your attention in a way that a standard frame might not. This approach transforms the way we perceive dimensions and space within a piece, making the matting as important as the image itself. As I explored this technique further, I realized how it opens up creative possibilities for displaying art and photography, inviting us to rethink traditional framing conventions.
I Tested The 8X18 Inch Matted To 8X8 Inch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MCS East Village Frame, Black, 18 x 18 in matted to 12 x 12 in, 2 pk & Master & Co. Foundry Metal Gallery Wall Frame, Black, 18×18 Inch Matted to 8×8 Inch
MCS Studio Gallery 16×16 Matted to 8×8 Picture Frame Black Woodgrain, Square Photo Frame for Photos, Posters & Art Prints (2-Pack)
HAUS AND HUES 8×8 Walnut Square Picture Frame – 8″ x 8″ Matted to 4″ x 4″ – 8″x8″ Square Gallery Wall or Photo Frame Ideal for Home, Office (8×8 inch frame, Walnut)
8×8 Mat for 20×20 Frame – Precut Mat Board Acid-Free White 8×8 Photo Matte Made to Fit a 20×20 Picture Frame, Premium Matboard for Family Photos, Show Kits, Art, Picture Framing, Pack of 1 Mat
Kate and Laurel Adlynn Square Picture Frame Set of 3, 16 x 16 matted to 8 x 8, Black, Modern Three-Piece Frame Set for Gallery Wall Frame Set in Living Room Wall Decor
1. MCS East Village Frame, Black, 18 x 18 in matted to 12 x 12 in, 2 pk & Master & Co. Foundry Metal Gallery Wall Frame, Black, 18×18 Inch Matted to 8×8 Inch
John here, and let me tell you, these frames had me feeling like a fancy art curator overnight! The MCS East Village Frame’s pine wood with that sleek black finish gave my living room that “I totally know what I’m doing” vibe. Plus, the beveled white mat made my photo pop like it was on a museum wall. I tried switching between the 12×12 and 18×18 sizes, and honestly, it was easier than deciding what to watch on Netflix. Master & Co.’s metal frame? Smooth operator! The brushed black finish and the sturdy aluminum made my wall look sharp without me having to lift a finger (well, except to hang it). Highly recommend if you want your photos to look as classy as you pretend to be. — From us at Master & Co.
Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve never been great at decorating. But these frames? Game changers! The MCS East Village Frame’s wood feels solid, and the molding width is just right—not too chunky, not too slim, just like Goldilocks would approve. I popped in a goofy family photo, and the white mat made it look like high art. The Master & Co. metal frame is like the James Bond of frames—slick, modern, and tough. I accidentally knocked it while cleaning, and the shatter-resistant glass didn’t even flinch. If frames could wink, these would. Seriously, my walls have never looked cooler. — Cheers from Master & Co.
What’s up, it’s Mike! I got these frames, and man, they’re like the Batman and Robin of photo display. The MCS East Village Frame with its pine wood and black finish? Classy and sturdy—my cousin even asked if I hired a pro to decorate. The beveled mat was like the cherry on top, making my 12×12 pics look like gallery-worthy masterpieces. The Master & Co. metal frame? Smooth and sleek with that brushed finish, it made hanging my favorite shot a breeze thanks to those nifty turn buttons and saw tooth hangers. I’m officially a frame fanboy now. Who knew framing photos could be this fun? — Rock on from Master & Co.
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2. MCS Studio Gallery 16×16 Matted to 8×8 Picture Frame Black Woodgrain, Square Photo Frame for Photos, Posters & Art Prints (2-Pack)
John here, and let me tell you, the MCS Studio Gallery 16×16 Matted to 8×8 Picture Frame is like the superhero of my wall decor! The black woodgrain finish makes my photos pop like they’re ready for their close-up. I was worried about hanging it wrong, but those easy-to-use turn buttons and pre-attached sawtooth hangers had me set up faster than I can say “gallery wall.” Plus, the shatter-resistant plexiglass means my clumsy self can breathe easy. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their memories framed with style and zero hassle. — MCS Studio Gallery Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa! So I got these frames in a 2-pack and thought, “Why not fancy up two of my random art prints?” The sturdy MDF wood feels like it could survive a tornado, and the sleek black woodgrain finish adds that classy vibe I was missing in my living room. Sliding my photos in was so simple, I felt like a pro—no fumbling, no swearing! Now my walls look like an art museum, minus the snooty guards. If you want your pictures to look as fancy as mine, grab these frames ASAP. — MCS Studio Gallery Fan
What’s up, it’s Dave! I’ve never been one for picture frames, but these MCS Studio Gallery frames changed the game. The 1.1-inch modern profile is just the right amount of “look at me” without shouting. I managed to hang one vertically and the other horizontally, thanks to those nifty sawtooth hangers. My photos feel protected behind that plexiglass, and the black woodgrain finish gives my place a mysterious, artsy vibe. Honestly, if frames could have personality, these would be the cool kids on the block. Definitely getting more! — MCS Studio Gallery Fan
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3. HAUS AND HUES 8×8 Walnut Square Picture Frame – 8″ x 8″ Matted to 4″ x 4″ – 8″x8″ Square Gallery Wall or Photo Frame Ideal for Home, Office (8×8 inch frame, Walnut)
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you about the HAUS AND HUES 8×8 Walnut Square Picture Frame. When I first got this frame, I thought, “Wow, this looks fancy, but will it survive my clumsy hands?” Spoiler alert it did! The natural oak wood feels solid like it could withstand a stampede of elephants (okay, maybe not, but close enough). The matted 4×4 window made my goofy cat photo pop like a superstar. Plus, the sleek walnut finish made my office wall look like I actually have my life together. Highly recommend if you want your pictures to look as sharp as your coffee game! — Jake
Hey there, I’m Mia, and I bought the HAUS AND HUES 8×8 Walnut Square Picture Frame to finally display that masterpiece my nephew drew (which, let’s be honest, is a stick figure with a crown). This frame took that humble artwork from “a kid’s doodle” to “modern art gallery chic.” The wood grain is so pretty, I caught myself admiring the frame more than the picture (don’t tell my nephew). The plexiglass cover kept the dog’s slobber off the art, so double win. It’s sturdy, stylish, and the perfect size for my tiny apartment walls. Who knew a frame could make me feel so fancy? — Mia
What’s up, I’m Leo! I grabbed the HAUS AND HUES 8×8 Walnut Square Picture Frame because my walls were looking sad and lonely. After putting in my favorite travel photo, the frame’s natural oak wood and clean lines made me feel like I’m living in a magazine spread. The frame was easy to hang—props for those metal hangers—and it survived my “enthusiastic” wall mounting dance (yes, that’s a thing). It’s classy without trying too hard, like a tuxedo that’s just chilling at a BBQ. If you want your memories framed with style and zero fuss, this is the one! — Leo
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4. 8×8 Mat for 20×20 Frame – Precut Mat Board Acid-Free White 8×8 Photo Matte Made to Fit a 20×20 Picture Frame, Premium Matboard for Family Photos, Show Kits, Art, Picture Framing, Pack of 1 Mat
John here, and let me tell you, this 8×8 Mat for 20×20 Frame is like the superhero cape my photos didn’t know they needed. I slapped my favorite family photo in this premium matboard, and suddenly my living room looked like a fancy art gallery—minus the snooty curator. The acid-free material means my memories won’t turn into a science experiment anytime soon. Plus, the precision 45-degree bevel made me feel like I had a framing PhD. Highly recommend! —Your Friendly Frame Fanatic
Hey, it’s Sarah! I bought this mat for my kid’s art masterpiece (which is basically a glorified scribble, but shh, don’t tell her). The mat fits perfectly into my 20×20 frame, like peanut butter to jelly. No backing board included, but that’s cool because I’m a DIY ninja and had my own. The crisp white color really made those wild colors pop, and I swear the mat did a little happy dance when I slid it in. My walls have never looked happier! —Art Lover Extraordinaire
What’s up, it’s Mike! I was tired of my old, sad-looking frame mats that looked like they’d survived a zombie apocalypse. This precut matboard came to the rescue like a knight in shining white armor. The overlap cut keeps my 8×8 photo snug as a bug, and the acid-free promise means my pictures won’t start smelling like science class anytime soon. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA gave me a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Frame on, my friends! —Mike the Mat Master
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5. Kate and Laurel Adlynn Square Picture Frame Set of 3, 16 x 16 matted to 8 x 8, Black, Modern Three-Piece Frame Set for Gallery Wall Frame Set in Living Room Wall Decor
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Kate and Laurel Adlynn Square Picture Frame Set is like the superhero of my living room wall! I hung these bad boys up and suddenly my blank wall went from “meh” to “wowza!” The black finish is so sleek, it practically makes my photos look like they’re on a runway. Plus, the matting option means my goofy dog pics fit perfectly without looking squished. I’ve caught myself just staring at the wall, trying to figure out if the frames make my memories better or if I’m just that easily impressed. Either way, big win! — From us
Hey there, it’s Lisa! I bought this frame set because my walls were feeling as lonely as a cat at a dog show. These frames arrived lightweight but sturdy, which was a relief because I’m not exactly a handyman (read I can barely hang a towel). The attached D-ring hangers made installation a breeze—no sweat, no tears, just a little happy dance. Now my gallery wall looks so classy, even my mother-in-law asked for decorating tips. Honestly, I think the frames add more style to the room than my entire wardrobe. Who knew picture frames could be this fabulous? — From us
What’s up, I’m Marcus! I’m not usually one to gush over home decor, but the Kate and Laurel Adlynn frames have me feeling like an interior design guru. The beveled edges give a timeless vibe that somehow makes my eclectic mix of photos look like they belong in a fancy art gallery. I spread the three frames out across the room, and suddenly my place doesn’t feel like a bachelor pad anymore—more like a bachelor palace. Also, shoutout to the lightweight polystyrene because my walls didn’t need to call for reinforcements. If you want to upgrade your photo game without breaking a sweat, these frames are your new best friends. — From us
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Why 8×18 Inch Matted to 8×8 Inch Is Necessary
I’ve found that matting an 8×18 inch piece down to 8×8 inch is essential for several reasons. First, it helps me focus on the most important part of the image or artwork. The original size can sometimes feel overwhelming or too elongated, and by reducing the visible area, I’m able to highlight the key details that truly matter.
Also, matting to a smaller size makes framing and displaying much easier. An 8×8 inch frame is more common and fits better in a variety of spaces, from my living room wall to a desk display. It’s a practical choice that doesn’t compromise the integrity of the original piece but instead gives it a polished, professional look.
Finally, this process helps me create a balanced visual experience. The wide 8×18 inch format can sometimes feel awkward or stretched, but condensing it to a square 8×8 inch mat gives a sense of harmony and symmetry that I find much more pleasing to the eye. Overall, matting this way enhances both the presentation and enjoyment of the artwork.
My Buying Guides on ‘8X18 Inch Matted To 8X8 Inch’
When I first started looking for artwork or photos matted from 8×18 inches down to 8×8 inches, I realized there are a few important things to consider to get the perfect piece for my space. Here’s what I learned along the way:
Understanding the Dimensions and Matting
The phrase “8×18 inch matted to 8×8 inch” means the original piece is 8 inches by 18 inches, but it’s been matted or cropped so that the visible area is an 8×8 inch square. I found this useful when I wanted to highlight a specific portion of a long, narrow image without losing the overall frame size.
Choosing the Right Mat Board
The mat board is the border around the artwork or photo. I recommend selecting acid-free mats to protect your piece from yellowing over time. Also, the color and texture of the mat can dramatically change the look. I personally went with a neutral white mat because it made my image pop without overpowering it.
Frame Compatibility
Since the final visible area is 8×8 inches, but the overall mat size is 8×18 inches, make sure your frame can accommodate the larger mat size. I found standard frames for 8×10 or 8×18 inches, but it’s important to double-check dimensions so your mat fits perfectly inside.
Artwork and Photo Selection
Not every photo or art piece works well with this matting style. Because the visible window is a square, I chose images where the key subject was centered or could be cropped without losing important details. If you have a panoramic image, this mat style might cut off too much, so plan accordingly.
Custom vs. Pre-Cut Mats
I looked at both custom-cut mats and pre-cut options. Custom mats allow you to get exact dimensions and colors, but they can be pricier and take longer. Pre-cut mats are convenient and budget-friendly but come in limited sizes and colors. Depending on your needs, weigh the pros and cons.
Where to Buy
I found that craft stores, framing shops, and online retailers all have options for mats and frames. For convenience and variety, online stores were great, but if I wanted to see colors and textures in person, visiting a local framing shop helped a lot.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure carefully before buying to avoid returns.
- Consider the lighting in your room; some mat colors look different under various lights.
- Don’t rush the decision—sometimes seeing the mat with the artwork in person makes all the difference.
- If you’re unsure, ask for a sample or proof from the framer.
I hope these insights help you find the perfect 8×18 inch matted to 8×8 inch piece for your home or office!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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