9 Best Wood For Picture Frames That Make Art Pop

The best wood for picture frames is the one that makes your art look its best and fits your style. Wood choice affects color, mood, and how long the frame holds up.

From deep walnut to bright maple, each species brings its own vibe. Here’s a quick guide to popular woods, how they change the feel of your artwork, and what to consider before you start framing.

Our Top Wood Frame Picks

11×14 Natural Walnut Wood Picture Frame Handcrafted 11x14 Picture Frame, USA-Sourced Natural Walnut Wood Photo Frame with Premium HandcraftedSize / Photo Fit: Displays 8×10 photo with mat (frame outer 11×14)Material Type: USA-sourced walnut wood (solid hardwood)Display Options: Wall mounting and tabletop (hooks + easel back)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
15-Pack Unfinished Wooden 4×6 Photo Frames for Crafts VOKOY 15 Pack Wooden Picture Frames for Crafts,DIY Wood Craft DIY Bulk PackSize / Photo Fit: Fits ~3.54 x 5.5 to 4.33 x 6.29 in (designed for 4×6 photos)Material Type: Unfinished wood (high-quality wood components)Display Options: Horizontal or vertical tabletop display (back brackets)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
LWR CRAFTS Wooden DIY Photo Frame 4″ x 6″ Pack of 2 LWR CRAFTS Wooden DIY Photo Frame 4" x 6" Pack Kid-Friendly DIYSize / Photo Fit: Fits 4 x 6 in photos (outer ~5.67 x 7.67 in)Material Type: Natural unfinished woodDisplay Options: Vertical or horizontal tabletop (built-in stand)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Rustic 5×7 Wood Picture Frame with Glass icheesday Picture Frame 5x7 Inch,Rustic Wood Photo Frames with Real Rustic ClassicSize / Photo Fit: Fits 5 x 7 in photosMaterial Type: Solid wood frame (natural texture)Display Options: Tabletop easel and wall hanging (multi-angle)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Icona Bay 5×7 Chestnut Brown Rustic Picture Frame Icona Bay - 5x7 Chestnut Brown Picture Frame - Rustic Lodge-Style FavoriteSize / Photo Fit: Fits 5 x 7 in photos (opening reveals ~4.5 x 6.5 in)Material Type: Wood composite with paper-wrapped wood-like finishDisplay Options: Tabletop kickstand and D-ring wall hanging (portrait/landscape)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
iRahmen 8×10 Rustic Brown Photo Frame Set (4) iRahmen 8x10 Picture Frame Set of 4, High Definition Real Set For GalleriesSize / Photo Fit: Fits 8 x 10 in photos (no mat)Material Type: MDF (engineered wood)Display Options: Hang vertically/horizontally and desktop easel-backVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Solid Oak 8×10 Picture Frame with Mat (Natural) wallwisy 8x10 Picture Frame, Solid Oak Wood 8x10 Photo Frame Solid Oak LuxurySize / Photo Fit: Outer 8 x 10 in; includes mat to display 5 x 7 (opening 4.5 x 6.5)Material Type: Solid North American white oakDisplay Options: Wall-mountable and tabletop (strut back with ribbon)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Upsimples Natural Solid Wooden Picture Frame (8×10) upsimples 8x10 Picture Frame, Natural Solid Wooden Picture Frames, Display Eco-Friendly ChoiceSize / Photo Fit: Displays 5 x 7 with mat (or 8 x 10 without mat)Material Type: 100% natural solid woodDisplay Options: Wall or tabletop (easel/back support)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Eosglac Live Edge 5×7 Rustic Wood Photo Frame Eosglac 5x7 Live Edge Picture Frame, Rustic Wood Photo Frames Live-Edge StatementSize / Photo Fit: Fits 5 x 7 in photosMaterial Type: Solid wood with bark edge (live edge)Display Options: Tabletop 2-way easel and wall hanging (triangle hooks)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. 11×14 Natural Walnut Wood Picture Frame Handcrafted

    11x14 Picture Frame, USA-Sourced Natural Walnut Wood Photo Frame with

    Premium Handcrafted

    View Latest Price

    Should you want a photograph frame that feels warm, solid, and built to last, this 11×14 natural walnut frame is a smart choice you’ll enjoy showing off. You’ll notice the USA-sourced walnut, rough-sawn and hand-milled, gives each frame a unique grain. You can use it vertical or horizontal, with a mat that shows an 8×10 photo. The tempered anti-scratch glass keeps images sharp and safe. Rounded corners and mortise and tenon joinery mean no nails and strong seams. Hooks and a kickstand let you display it anywhere. It’s a thoughtful gift with a durable satin finish.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Displays 8×10 photo with mat (frame outer 11×14)
    • Material Type:USA-sourced walnut wood (solid hardwood)
    • Display Options:Wall mounting and tabletop (hooks + easel back)
    • Protective Cover:Anti-scratch tempered glass
    • Finish / Customization:Satin clear non-toxic varnish (finished, handcrafted)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Mortise & tenon joinery, hardwood corner splines; comes with wall hooks and easel back
    • Additional Feature:Mortise & tenon joinery
    • Additional Feature:Hardwood corner splines
    • Additional Feature:Anti-scratch tempered glass
  2. 15-Pack Unfinished Wooden 4×6 Photo Frames for Crafts

    VOKOY 15 Pack Wooden Picture Frames for Crafts,DIY Wood Craft

    DIY Bulk Pack

    View Latest Price

    Crafters who want a simple, dependable blank canvas will love these 15-pack unfinished wooden 4×6 photo frames because they make decorating fast and forgiving. You’ll get smooth, rounded edges and sturdy metal brackets that hold photos vertically or horizontally. The outer size is 7.44 across 5.5 inches and the inner opening fits common 4 across 6 media and slightly larger cards. You can paint, glue pearls, add dried flowers, or wrap ribbon for party favors and gifts. Tighten back screws with a small screwdriver should they become loose. These frames help you preserve memories while you craft with confidence.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Fits ~3.54 x 5.5 to 4.33 x 6.29 in (designed for 4×6 photos)
    • Material Type:Unfinished wood (high-quality wood components)
    • Display Options:Horizontal or vertical tabletop display (back brackets)
    • Protective Cover:(No glass specified) standard cover not specified — intended for craft use (likely no glass)
    • Finish / Customization:Unfinished (ready for DIY decoration)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Back panel secured with screws; brackets for orientation
    • Additional Feature:Pack of 15 frames
    • Additional Feature:Smooth rounded edges
    • Additional Feature:Screw-secured back panel
  3. LWR CRAFTS Wooden DIY Photo Frame 4″ x 6″ Pack of 2

    LWR CRAFTS Wooden DIY Photo Frame 4" x 6" Pack

    Kid-Friendly DIY

    View Latest Price

    This pack of two LWR CRAFTS wooden DIY frames is perfect for anyone who likes hands-on decorating and needs easy, kid-friendly options for 4″ x 6″ photos. You’ll find natural unfinished wood that’s ready for paint, stain, stickers, decals, or washi tape. The frames fit 4″ x 6″ photos with outer dimensions of 5-2/3″ across 7-2/3″ and a slim 5 mm thickness. A clear plastic cover keeps photos safe without glass, so you won’t worry about breakage. The back opens for quick photo swaps and a built-in stand lets you display vertically or horizontally. Use them for gifts, parties, classrooms, or home décor.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Fits 4 x 6 in photos (outer ~5.67 x 7.67 in)
    • Material Type:Natural unfinished wood
    • Display Options:Vertical or horizontal tabletop (built-in stand)
    • Protective Cover:Clear plastic photo cover (no glass)
    • Finish / Customization:Natural unfinished (paint/stain friendly)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Back panel opens for photo changes; built-in stand
    • Additional Feature:Clear plastic cover
    • Additional Feature:Pack of 2
    • Additional Feature:5 mm thin profile
  4. Rustic 5×7 Wood Picture Frame with Glass

    icheesday Picture Frame 5x7 Inch,Rustic Wood Photo Frames with Real

    Rustic Classic

    View Latest Price

    You’ll love the Rustic 5×7 Wood Image Frame with Glass should you want a warm, countryside look that still feels sturdy and reliable. You’ll notice solid wood grain that brings cozy texture to your photo. The real glass front keeps colors vivid and adds a polished feel. A backing with rotary tabs makes swapping memories easy, and the built-in easel or hanging hardware gives flexible display options. It comes in a brown finish that suits residences and festival decor, and it ships well wrapped after testing. Should you require help, customer support responds quickly to resolve any concerns.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Fits 5 x 7 in photos
    • Material Type:Solid wood frame (natural texture)
    • Display Options:Tabletop easel and wall hanging (multi-angle)
    • Protective Cover:Real glass front
    • Finish / Customization:Rustic brown finish (stained/finished)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Backing with rotary tabs; built-in easel and hanging hardware
    • Additional Feature:Real glass front
    • Additional Feature:Rotary tab backing
    • Additional Feature:Countryside rustic style
  5. Icona Bay 5×7 Chestnut Brown Rustic Picture Frame

    Icona Bay - 5x7 Chestnut Brown Picture Frame - Rustic

    Lodge-Style Favorite

    View Latest Price

    In case you want a frame that feels warm, lived-in, and ready for cozy rooms, the Icona Bay 5×7 Chestnut Brown Rustic Image Frame is a smart pick. You’ll appreciate its lightly distressed chestnut brown finish and multiple beveled edges that add depth and drama. It looks like real wood but uses a sturdy composite wrapped in a wood-like paper, so it’s both affordable and convincing. You get crystal-clear PS polystyrene to protect your print, a backboard with a kickstand, swivel tabs, and D-ring hooks for wall or table display. Sizes and packs give you flexible ordering options.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Fits 5 x 7 in photos (opening reveals ~4.5 x 6.5 in)
    • Material Type:Wood composite with paper-wrapped wood-like finish
    • Display Options:Tabletop kickstand and D-ring wall hanging (portrait/landscape)
    • Protective Cover:Crystal-clear PS polystyrene sheet (plastic)
    • Finish / Customization:Chestnut brown matte, lightly distressed (finished)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Backboard with swivel tabs, attached D-rings, kickstand easel
    • Additional Feature:Paper-wrapped wood finish
    • Additional Feature:Crystal-clear PS sheet
    • Additional Feature:Multiple-beveled edging
  6. iRahmen 8×10 Rustic Brown Photo Frame Set (4)

    iRahmen 8x10 Picture Frame Set of 4, High Definition Real

    Set For Galleries

    View Latest Price

    For anyone looking to give a cozy, handmade feel to their photos, the iRahmen 8×10 Rustic Brown Photo Frame Set of 4 stands out as a smart choice because it pairs a warm, classic look with practical protection that keeps memories safe. You’ll appreciate the durable MDF that looks like real wood and the clear glass that keeps dust, moisture, and scratches away. You can hang each frame vertically or horizontally, or use the easel-back for tabletop display. Packaging protects each piece for gifting. Installation is easy: remove the back, slide in your image, then secure with the fasteners.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Fits 8 x 10 in photos (no mat)
    • Material Type:MDF (engineered wood)
    • Display Options:Hang vertically/horizontally and desktop easel-back
    • Protective Cover:Real glass with high clarity
    • Finish / Customization:Rustic classic finish (pack of finished frames)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Fasteners/sliders on back for securing image; hanging hanger and easel-back
    • Additional Feature:Set of four frames
    • Additional Feature:Protective corner caps
    • Additional Feature:Individually bubble-wrapped
  7. Solid Oak 8×10 Picture Frame with Mat (Natural)

    wallwisy 8x10 Picture Frame, Solid Oak Wood 8x10 Photo Frame

    Solid Oak Luxury

    View Latest Price

    Solid oak 8×10 image frame with a neutral finish gives you a warm, classic look that works great in residential rooms, home offices, and gift-ready displays. You’ll notice the natural North American white oak grain brings depth and warmth, and the neutral oak finish helps your photo colors pop. The frame comes with an ivory mat that turns the outer 8 x 10 into a gallery-ready 5 x 7 opening. You can use it with or without the mat, vertically or horizontally. A plexiglass front keeps images clear and safe, and the sturdy strut back and wall hardware make display simple and secure.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Outer 8 x 10 in; includes mat to display 5 x 7 (opening 4.5 x 6.5)
    • Material Type:Solid North American white oak
    • Display Options:Wall-mountable and tabletop (strut back with ribbon)
    • Protective Cover:High-definition plexiglass (plastic)
    • Finish / Customization:Neutral oak finish (finished; removable protective film)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Strut back with safety ribbon; removable cover film; wall & tabletop hardware
    • Additional Feature:Solid North American oak
    • Additional Feature:Strut back with ribbon
    • Additional Feature:Scratch-resistant plexiglass
  8. Upsimples Natural Solid Wooden Picture Frame (8×10)

    upsimples 8x10 Picture Frame, Natural Solid Wooden Picture Frames, Display

    Eco-Friendly Choice

    View Latest Price

    Choose the Upsimples Natural Solid Wooden Image Frame whenever you want a warm, rustic look that still feels durable and eco-friendly. You’ll get a true solid wood frame that’s formaldehyde free and light at just 8.1 ounces. It fits 8×10 photos without the mat or displays 5×7 with the included mat, so you can switch styles easily. A matte finish and non reflective plastic panel keep glare down and image clarity up. Mount it on a wall or set it on a tabletop in a nursery or retro room. Customers love the quality and natural charm, and a warranty adds peace of mind.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Displays 5 x 7 with mat (or 8 x 10 without mat)
    • Material Type:100% natural solid wood
    • Display Options:Wall or tabletop (easel/back support)
    • Protective Cover:High-quality plastic panel (non-reflective)
    • Finish / Customization:Matte natural solid wood finish (finished)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:Back wood panel with mounting hardware for wall/tabletop
    • Additional Feature:100% formaldehyde-free
    • Additional Feature:Removable mat options
    • Additional Feature:Lightweight 8.1 oz frame
  9. Eosglac Live Edge 5×7 Rustic Wood Photo Frame

    Eosglac 5x7 Live Edge Picture Frame, Rustic Wood Photo Frames

    Live-Edge Statement

    View Latest Price

    Should you love warm, natural decor and want a frame that brings a bit of the outdoors into your home, the Eosglac Live Edge 5×7 Rustic Wood Photo Frame is a great pick for you. You’ll appreciate the live edge wood finish and bark edge that give each frame its own character. It holds a single 5×7 photo behind a glass pane and uses an MDF backboard with twist tabs for easy access. You can stand it on a table with a two-way easel or hang it using triangle hooks. It fits kitchens, bedrooms, lounge rooms, offices and makes a heartfelt gift.

    • Size / Photo Fit:Fits 5 x 7 in photos
    • Material Type:Solid wood with bark edge (live edge)
    • Display Options:Tabletop 2-way easel and wall hanging (triangle hooks)
    • Protective Cover:Glass pane
    • Finish / Customization:Natural live-edge with bark (finished natural look)
    • Hardware / Assembly Features:MDF backboard with twist/tabs; triangle hooks and 2-way easel
    • Additional Feature:Bark live-edge finish
    • Additional Feature:Glass pane included
    • Additional Feature:MDF backboard with twist tabs

Factors to Consider When Choosing Wood For Picture Frames

Choosing the right wood for a image frame means balancing practical needs with the look you want, so readers should contemplate durability and strength alongside visual grain and color. Workability and joinery affect how easily a frame is built and how clean the corners look, while frame thickness and weight influence how a piece hangs and feels on the wall. Finish and surface prep link directly to the final appearance and protection, so reflecting about sanding, sealing, and stain choices helps guarantee the frame lasts and complements the artwork.

Durability and Strength

At the point of considering durability and strength for a photograph frame, it helps to start with how the timber will live in the room. Hardwoods like oak, walnut, and maple offer greater tensile and compressive strength, so they resist denting and warping more than softwoods.

Dense species with Janka ratings above about 1,000 lbf handle scratches and impacts better, which matters in busy homes. Stability against moisture comes next, so choose woods with low tangential and radial shrinkage where humidity swings occur. Yet joinery and frame thickness often determine long term strength more than species alone. Use mortise and tenon, corner splines, or well glued laminated rails. Finish the wood to protect fibers from moisture and UV without expecting added structural support.

Visual Grain and Color

Grain and color shape the initial impression a frame makes and quietly guide how the eye meets the image. Open-grain woods like oak and ash bring bold texture and tactile interest, so they suit rustic or strong, high-contrast art. Closed-grain species such as maple and cherry present a smoother, calmer face that lets delicate prints breathe. Grain direction and scale matter too.

Straight grain reads formal and modern, while wavy or figured grain adds movement and drama. Heartwood tone and aging change the mood over time; walnut stays deep and warm, cherry grows richer and redder. Finishes alter perception: clear oils deepen grain, heavy stains flatten it. Match grain and color to artwork and room so the frame supports rather than steals attention.

Workability and Joinery

After considering how grain and color steer the eye, it helps to look at how wood actually behaves as it is worked into a frame. The right species makes cutting and joining less stressful. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut cut cleanly for tight miters and mortise and tenon joints. Very hard woods such as hickory need sharper cutters or slower feeds to avoid blunt tools.

Softer woods like pine and cedar rout, chisel, and nail easily, yet they can compress or dent during joinery. Use pilot holes, backing blocks, or cleats to protect edges. Straight, even grain and uniform density reduce tear out and give snug fits for splines, biscuits, dowels, or dominoes. Match glue methods to porosity and choose quarter sawn or kiln dried lumber for stable, lasting joints.

Frame Thickness and Weight

On a practical level, frame thickness and the wood’s weight work together to shape both the look and the handling of a photograph frame. Thicker profiles add visual presence and stiffness, and they also increase the load on wall anchors. Denser woods like oak or walnut make frames feel solid at a given thickness, while soft woods like pine stay lighter. Deeper frames allow for thicker mats, glass, and archival backing, so they suit layered displays. For tabletop pieces choose thinner, lighter frames under 10 mm to avoid tipping and stress on easel backs. For large wall art, thicker and heavier frames resist warping and feel secure. Keep in mind to plan for stronger hangers, multiple hanging points, and sturdier packaging for transport.

Finish and Surface Prep

Frame thickness and weight affect more than hanging hardware; they also change how finishes sit and how much surface prep is needed. A craftsman sands progressively from coarse to fine grit, starting around 80 to 120 and finishing at 220 to 320. This removes milling marks and creates a uniform surface that accepts stain evenly. Test stains and finishes on scrap wood or an unseen area because grain and density change absorption and color.

Open grain woods like oak and ash need grain filler or sanding sealer to avoid a bumpy topcoat, while closed grain woods like walnut and maple usually need only light sanding and conditioner. Blotch prone species benefit from dewaxed shellac or dedicated conditioners. Remove dust with a tack cloth or vacuum and apply thin coats in proper conditions.

TheHouseMag Staff
TheHouseMag Staff

TheHouseMag Staff is a team of home lovers and storytellers sharing tips, inspiration, and ideas to help make every house feel like a home.