Picture Frame Moulding Calculator

Frame moulding is sold in long lengths and cut at an angle at each corner. This adds up the four sides of the frame and allows for the cuts.

How it works

Add the outside width and height, then double the total. That gives the length of all four sides together.

Each corner takes a little length in the cut, so add the waste you allow for each one. Buy that total, and a little more if a cut may go wrong.

A frame 12 in wide and 16 in tall needs about 4.83 ft of moulding for its four sides and corners.

Outside or inside size?

Use the outside size of the finished frame, since the moulding forms the outer edge. Measure the frame as it will look on the wall.

How much waste per corner?

A mitred cut takes a small amount per corner. Many framers allow about half an inch, or about 1 cm, but test your saw and moulding first.

Should I buy extra?

Yes. A little extra covers a bad cut, which costs less than running short with a single piece.