Craig Frames B163 Pre-Cut Mat Board for 14x18 Print - Oyster Shell

In this review of the Craig Frames B163 pre-cut mat board, the bottom line is simple: it is for anyone framing a 14x18 in photo or print who wants a clean, professional presentation without custom cutting. The matting fits a 20x24 in frame and features an Oyster Shell White face with a smooth finish and a light cream core, giving prints a subtle, archival look. The single biggest reason to buy is the reliably sized, bevel-cut opening that is deliberately reduced to prevent the image from slipping through, which keeps framed work neat and stable.

Key Features

• Frame compatibility: Fits a standard 20x24 in frame so the mat can be used with common ready-made frames for easy display.
• Opening size: Designed to display a 14x18 in image while the actual opening is slightly smaller to prevent the print from falling through, improving long-term presentation.
• Material finish: Oyster Shell White face with a smooth finish provides a neutral backdrop that complements most prints and photos.
• Cream core and bevel: The 0.05 in cream core and custom bevel cut add a subtle dimensional edge that enhances depth and visual separation between image and frame.
• pH neutral board: pH neutral construction preserves prints and maintains a professional appearance for archival framing projects.
• Made in USA: Manufactured in the U.S.A., offering consistent quality for single-display framing tasks.

Who It's For

This mat is aimed at hobbyists, photographers, and artists who use standard 20x24 in frames and want a ready-made solution for a 14x18 in image without measuring and cutting their own mat board. It is also a good choice for galleries or crafters who prefer a smooth, Oyster Shell White face and a cream core that reads as slightly warm behind artwork.

Those who should look elsewhere include people who need multiple openings, nonstandard cut shapes, or colored cores beyond the described cream, and anyone seeking custom double mats or conservation-grade glazing options not specified here.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality construction with a smooth Oyster Shell White face that looks professional in a frame.
• Opening is intentionally reduced so prints stay secure and do not slip through the bevel cut.
• pH neutral board and cream core add archival-friendly properties and a refined edge to framed work.

Cons

• Single-opening, single mat - not suitable for multi-image displays or specialty custom shapes.
• Frame not included, so buyers must already have or purchase a compatible 20x24 in frame separately.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Craig Frames B163 pre-cut mat board is a sensible, cost-effective choice for anyone framing a 14x18 in print in a 20x24 in frame who wants a neat, archival-friendly result without the hassle of cutting a mat. Its smooth Oyster Shell White face, cream core bevel, and reduced opening make it good value for straightforward framing projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this mat work with my 20x24 in frame?
Yes, the mat is cut to fit a 20x24 in frame and is intended for that standard frame size.

What size image will be visible after framing?
The mat is designed for a 14x18 in display, but the actual opening is 13.5x17.5 in to prevent the print from slipping through.

How should I attach my print to the mat?
Center the image in the opening and secure the top edge with an adhesive strip as recommended to hold the print in place.