The Freedom to Frame: Why We Let You Print and Frame Your Artwork Your Way

Here at The Word in Colour, our heart is to create meaningful, faith-filled artwork that brings life to your home—not to box you in with limited choices or expensive add-ons. That's why when you purchase our Christian wall art, you'll notice something a little different: we don't sell our prints already framed or force you to choose from just two or three sizes.

Instead, we do something better.

We give you the artwork in a range of flexible printable sizes—so you can print and frame it exactly the way you want. Whether you're on a tight budget, living in a remote area, or simply have a unique home decor style, this approach gives you complete control without compromising on beauty.

And yes… it's also the most budget-friendly way to enjoy high-quality artwork in your home.

Why Print-It-Yourself is the Best Option

Let's face it—buying pre-framed artwork can be expensive. It also locks you into a certain size, colour, and style of frame that might not suit your space.

But when you print the art yourself, you can:

• Choose a size that fits your wall

• Frame it in a colour or material that matches your decor

• Shop around for the best prices or re-use a frame you already love

• Take advantage of affordable and accessible framing stores like IKEA (more on that soon!)

• Replace or update your artwork seasonally without buying new frames

In short, it gives you freedom. And in today's economy, when many households are feeling the pressure of rising costs, this kind of flexibility matters more than ever.

The Real Cost Savings

Let me put this in perspective. A pre-framed piece of Christian wall art from most retailers can cost anywhere from $80-$300, depending on size and quality. With our print-it-yourself model:

• Digital artwork: $8-15

• Printing: $5-25 (depending on size and quality)

• IKEA frame: $15-50

• Total: $28-90 for the same quality result

That's potentially 60-70% savings while getting exactly what you want for your space.

The Five Size Ratios You'll Receive

Every time you purchase a digital print from The Word in Colour, you'll receive a download in five different aspect ratios. That means you can print it in a wide variety of sizes—without distortion, stretching, or cropping. Whether you want to hang a statement piece above your bed or create a subtle moment of peace in a hallway, there's a size that will work for your space.

We've split the ratios into portrait and landscape, so you'll know what to expect.

PORTRAIT RATIOS

Each portrait ratio gives you multiple print sizes. Here's what you'll receive:

• 2:3 Ratio (Base Size: 24x36 inches) Print in: 8x12", 12x18", 16x24", 20x30", 24x36" Perfect for narrow spaces, hallways, or as part of a gallery wall. This elongated format works beautifully for scripture verses.

  
  

• 3:4 Ratio (Base Size: 24x32 inches) Print in: 9x12", 12x16", 15x20", 18x24", 23x30" Slightly less elongated than 2:3, this ratio is ideal for more balanced compositions and works well above bedside tables.

  
  

• 4:5 Ratio (Base Size: 24x30 inches) Print in: 8x10", 12x15", 16x20", 20x25", 24x30" A classic photo and art ratio—this one is super popular for traditional framing and looks stunning in living areas.

  
  

• 11:14 Ratio (Base Size: 22x28 inches) Print in: 11x14", 22x28" This is a favourite for those who love ready-made frames at places like Kmart or Big W, too!

  
  

• A Series (International Paper Sizes) (Base Size: A1 - 59.4x84.1 cm) Print in: A4, A3, A2, A1 Standard paper sizes make these easy to print at Officeworks or your local print shop.

LANDSCAPE RATIOS

Prefer your artwork horizontal? No problem—we've got you covered with these five ratios in landscape orientation:

• 3:2 Ratio (Base Size: 36x24 inches) Print in: 12x8", 18x12", 24x16", 30x20", 36x24" Great for wide walls, mantels, or over the lounge. Perfect for displaying longer scripture passages.

  
  

• 4:3 Ratio (Base Size: 32x24 inches) Print in: 12x9", 16x12", 20x15", 24x18", 30x23" Balanced and visually calm, this ratio works well in modern homes and creates a peaceful focal point.

  
  

• 5:4 Ratio (Base Size: 30x24 inches) Print in: 10x8", 15x12", 20x16", 25x20", 30x24" Another traditional size you'll find plenty of frames for.

  
  

• 14:11 Ratio (Base Size: 28x22 inches) Print in: 14x11", 28x22" Perfect for showcasing scripture artwork in entryways or small spaces.

Finding the Right Frame Just Got Easier (Hello IKEA!)

Let's talk frames.

While there are lots of places to find frames, IKEA has one major thing going for it: it's everywhere.

There's at least one IKEA store in every Australian state and city—and in most major countries around the world. That means no matter where you are, you'll likely be able to find a good quality frame at a reasonable price, without waiting weeks for shipping.

And just to be clear—this is not a paid ad for IKEA. I'm not sponsored or affiliated in any way. I'm just a fan of their accessibility, range, and value. The last thing you want when framing artwork is to be limited by poor selection or hard-to-source products. IKEA solves that.

To make things easier for you, I have put together a table that matches each artwork ratio we provide you with to IKEA's current frame sizes. This includes both matted and unmatted options, so you can choose the look that works best for your space. But before we get to the table, we need to quickly talk about Mats.

What’s a Mat and Do I Need One?

If you’ve ever bought a frame and found a white or off-white border inside, that’s called a mat (or mount, depending on where you live). A mat is simply a piece of thick card or board that sits between your artwork and the frame. It’s not just decorative—it actually serves a couple of really useful purposes:

1. It makes your artwork look more polished.The white border helps draw the eye to the artwork and gives it that lovely gallery-style presentation. It adds space and breathing room around the design, making it feel more elevated and intentional.

2. It protects your print.A mat keeps the print from pressing directly against the glass, which helps prevent damage from condensation or sticking over time.

So, while a mat isn’t essential, it can definitely enhance your final display.

What Does “Mat Needed” Actually Mean?

In our IKEA frame guide, you’ll see a column titled “Mat Needed”. Here’s what it means:

• It doesn’t always mean you must use a mat—but that your artwork size is smaller than the frame and a mat is usually recommended to centre and hold it in place nicely.

• Some IKEA frames—like RÖDALM, RIBBA, and SANNAHED—include a mat as part of the frame.

• Others—like FISKBO—don’t include one, so if you want that matted look, you’ll need to get a mat separately or fake it with a digital border.

  
  

Where to Find a Mat if Your Frame Doesn’t Come With One

If you’ve chosen a frame that doesn’t come with a mat, don’t worry—there are a few easy and budget-friendly options:

• IKEA – Some frames include a mat already, but they also occasionally stock mats on their own.

• Officeworks (Australia) – Great for ready-made photo mats or custom cutting if you want a perfect fit.

• Local framers – Many local picture framers will cut a mat to your exact artwork size, usually at a very reasonable price.

• Online – Etsy, Amazon, and other art supply stores often sell universal-sized mats.

• DIY Tip – If you’re after a quick and budget option, you can simply print your artwork with a white border built in. This creates the effect of a mat without needing to buy anything extra!

So whether you go matted or unmatted, you have options—and the freedom to style your artwork in a way that suits your space, your budget, and your vision.

IKEA Frame Match-Up Table:

Aspect Ratio	Artwork Size (inches/cm)	Recommended IKEA Frame Size (cm)	Mat Needed	IKEA Frame Series
2:3	8x12	21x30	Yes	FISKBO, RÖDALM
2:3	12x18	30x45	Optional	RÖDALM
2:3	16x24	40x60	No	FISKBO, RÖDALM
2:3	20x30	50x70	No	FISKBO, RÖDALM
2:3	24x36	60x90	No	LOMVIKEN

Aspect Ratio	Artwork Size (inches/cm)	Recommended IKEA Frame Size (cm)	Mat Needed	IKEA Frame Series
3:4	9x12	21x30	Yes	RÖDALM
3:4	12x16	30x40	Optional	RÖDALM
3:4	15x20	40x50	Optional	RÖDALM
3:4	18x24	45x60	No	FISKBO
3:4	23x30	50x70	No	LOMVIKEN

Aspect Ratio	Artwork Size (inches/cm)	Recommended IKEA Frame Size (cm)	Mat Needed	IKEA Frame Series
4:5	8x10	20x25	Yes	RÖDALM
4:5	12x15	30x40	Optional	RÖDALM
4:5	16x20	40x50	No	FISKBO
4:5	20x25	50x70	No	FISKBO
4:5	24x30	60x80	No	LOMVIKEN

Aspect Ratio	Artwork Size (inches/cm)	Recommended IKEA Frame Size (cm)	Mat Needed	IKEA Frame Series
11:14	11x14	30x40	Yes	RÖDALM
11:14	22x28	40x50	No	RÖDALM
A Series	A4	21x30	No	FISKBO, RÖDALM
A Series	A3	30x40	Optional	RÖDALM
A Series	A2	50x70	No	RÖDALM
A Series	A1	61x91	No	LOMVIKEN

Final Thoughts

We created The Word in Colour not just to sell art, but to help people like you create homes filled with God's Word and presence. Our print-at-home model gives you freedom, flexibility, and affordability—without losing beauty or meaning.

And with our complete IKEA frame guide, you'll never be stuck guessing what size to buy again.

So go ahead—download your artwork, pick your favourite print size, and frame it in a way that's true to your heart and your home.

With love and blessings, Anne Founder of The Word in Colour

P.S. If you've printed and framed one of our pieces in your home, I'd love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @thewordincolour so we can celebrate your space with you.