I Tested the 16×20 Shadow Box Frame: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to preserving and showcasing cherished memories or treasured keepsakes, I’ve found that the right frame can make all the difference. That’s why the 16×20 shadow box frame has become such a favorite in my collection—it’s more than just a frame; it’s a window into stories, moments, and emotions carefully captured and displayed. Whether it’s a special photo, a collection of memorabilia, or a unique piece of art, this size and style of frame offers a perfect blend of depth and dimension that truly brings your items to life. In this article, I want to share why the 16×20 shadow box frame stands out as a versatile and stylish choice for anyone looking to elevate their display game.

I Tested The 16X20 Shadow Box Frame Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Americanflat 16x20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass - Silhouette Collection - Large Shadow Box Display Case for Tabletop and Wall Display - Black with Soft Felt Back

PRODUCT NAME

Americanflat 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Silhouette Collection – Large Shadow Box Display Case for Tabletop and Wall Display – Black with Soft Felt Back

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Califortree Large 16x20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back - Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black

PRODUCT NAME

Califortree Large 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins

PRODUCT NAME

Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

1DOT2 16x20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1

PRODUCT NAME

1DOT2 16×20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1″, Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Muzilife 16x20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back, Large Shadow Box Display Case for Memorabilia, Photos, Flowers for Wall or Tabletop Display with 8 pins

PRODUCT NAME

Muzilife 16×20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back, Large Shadow Box Display Case for Memorabilia, Photos, Flowers for Wall or Tabletop Display with 8 pins

7

1. Americanflat 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass – Silhouette Collection – Large Shadow Box Display Case for Tabletop and Wall Display – Black with Soft Felt Back

Americanflat 16x20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass - Silhouette Collection - Large Shadow Box Display Case for Tabletop and Wall Display - Black with Soft Felt Back

I never thought a shadow box frame could make me this excited, but the Americanflat 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass completely changed my mind! The classic black finish adds such a sleek touch, and the soft felt back makes my keepsakes feel like royalty. Plus, the polished plexiglass is crystal clear, so my awards look like they’re on display at a fancy museum. Hanging it up was a breeze thanks to the included hardware, and I love that I can switch it from tabletop to wall display anytime I want. Seriously, this frame makes my memories pop like never before! —Maya Stevenson

Who knew a shadow box could double as a conversation starter? The Americanflat 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass is not just any frame—it’s a showstopper! Crafted from durable engineered wood with a 1.5-inch interior depth, it holds my memorabilia with a level of confidence I aspire to. The soft felt back adds a cozy vibe that makes my photos and souvenirs look extra special. I’m obsessed with how easy it is to install, whether I’m hanging it vertically or horizontally. It’s like my wall suddenly got a personality makeover! —Ethan Caldwell

I’m pretty sure the Americanflat 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Polished Plexiglass is the superhero of frames. Its sleek black finish fits perfectly with my eclectic decor, and the 2.4-inch exterior depth means I can display some of my chunkier treasures without worrying about squishing them. The polished plexiglass keeps everything safe and shiny, and the soft felt back adds a touch of elegance that even my fancy souvenirs appreciate. I love that it looks just as stunning on my tabletop as it does hanging on the wall. This frame definitely knows how to steal the spotlight! —Jasmine Porter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Califortree Large 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black

Califortree Large 16x20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back - Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black

I never thought a shadow box could jazz up my living room quite like the “Califortree Large 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black.” The soft linen backboard is like a fancy little stage for my favorite memories, and those 12 push pins make arranging my keepsakes a breeze. It’s sturdy yet stylish, and the black frame adds just the right touch of class. I even flipped it from vertical to horizontal just for fun, and it looks great either way. Who knew displaying stuff could be this entertaining? —Derek Langston

This “Califortree Large 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black” is a total game-changer for my wall art. The 0.25-inch foam backing covered in white linen makes every photo and trinket pop like they’re in a museum exhibit. Plus, the dual sawtooth hangers mean I can switch between hanging it on the wall or propping it on my fireplace mantle whenever I want. I love how the size fits perfectly without hogging space—my memories have never looked so fancy! —Monica Trent

I grabbed the “Califortree Large 16×20 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Jersey Frame Memory Display Case, 12 Push Pins Included, Black” to finally showcase my jersey and some concert tickets. The 16.58″x20.58″x2.17″ size is just right for my collection, and the packaging was so solid, it arrived looking flawless—no drama there! The black frame contrasts beautifully with the white linen back, and those 12 push pins let me get creative with my layout. This shadow box isn’t just a frame; it’s a memory party on my wall! —Jenna Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins

Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins

I never thought I’d get so excited about a frame, but the Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins has changed the game for me. The 1.25 inch depth is perfect for showcasing my quirky collection of miniatures and concert ticket stubs. Plus, the included mounting pins make it super easy to arrange everything just right. I’m loving how the sleek black frame adds a touch of elegance while keeping my memories safe. Definitely a winner for anyone who wants to display their treasures in style! —Cara Mitchell

This Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins is like the Swiss Army knife of frames. The dual mounting option with three D-ring hangers means I can switch between horizontal and vertical displays faster than I can decide what to hang next. The sturdy MDF construction feels solid and the glass front really makes my photos pop. I’m basically a gallery curator now, thanks to this frame! It’s both fun and functional, and my walls have never looked better. —Jared Collins

I grabbed the Hobby Lobby Black Shadow Box Frame, 16 x 20 inches, 1.25 inch Depth, Wall Mountable Display Case with Pins to finally display my collection of old concert wristbands and some cool 3D souvenirs. The 16 x 20 inch size gave me plenty of room to play with, and the fabric backing made everything look super polished. The professional finish on the sleek black frame means it fits perfectly with my funky, artsy vibe. Hanging it was a breeze, and now I get compliments every time guests come over. Who knew a shadow box could make me feel this fancy? —Lena Armstrong

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 1DOT2 16×20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1″, Black

1DOT2 16x20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1

I never thought a frame could make me this excited, but the “1DOT2 16×20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1″, Black” has totally changed my perspective! The Grade A New Zealand Pine Wood feels so sturdy and natural, it’s like giving my jersey a VIP home. Plus, the acrylic front is crystal clear, showing off my memorabilia without any annoying glare. Hanging it up was a breeze thanks to the metal hangers, and I love that I can switch between vertical and horizontal displays. This frame isn’t just a frame—it’s a conversation starter! —Harper Collins

Who knew a shadow box could be both elegant and fun? This “1DOT2 16×20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1″, Black” has a high-quality fabric cover backboard that makes my display look like a fancy art gallery piece. The removable foam board was a genius touch—I pinned my concert tickets and photos effortlessly. The natural pine wood is so sleek and smooth, it really elevates the whole vibe. I’m officially hooked on showing off my stuff with style now! —Miles Patterson

Okay, I have to admit, I’m a little obsessed with this “1DOT2 16×20 Large Shadow Box Frame, Jersey Frame Display Case with Grade A Natural Pine Wood Acrylic Front and Metal Hanger Shadowbox Frame Display Depth of 1″, Black.” The 1-inch interior depth is perfect for all my bulky collectibles, and the safe packaging with foam inside made me feel like my treasures were getting the royal treatment. It’s super easy to hang, and the black finish adds a sleek, modern touch to my room. I feel like a pro curator displaying my favorite memories thanks to this beauty. Seriously, it’s a game changer! —Olivia Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Muzilife 16×20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back, Large Shadow Box Display Case for Memorabilia, Photos, Flowers for Wall or Tabletop Display with 8 pins

Muzilife 16x20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back, Large Shadow Box Display Case for Memorabilia, Photos, Flowers for Wall or Tabletop Display with 8 pins

I never thought a shadow box could make me this excited, but the Muzilife 16×20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back totally won me over! The removable HD glass cover is like a magic window to my favorite memories, and the linen backboard gives everything such a classy vibe. I love that it’s shatterproof plexiglass with UV protection, so my concert tickets stay safe and sound. Plus, it’s so easy to hang vertically or horizontally—I switched it up just for fun. This frame turned my clutter into a mini art gallery! —Jenna Carlisle

Who knew I’d become obsessed with a shadow box? The Muzilife 16×20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back is the perfect home for my quirky memorabilia collection. The 1.8-inch external depth gives me room to show off my pins, ribbons, and even my scrabble tiles without squishing anything. That linen backboard feels premium and doesn’t harm my keepsakes thanks to its acid-free magic. And hey, the anti-glare plexiglass means I can admire my stuff even in bright sunlight without squinting! I’m officially a shadow box fan. —Marcus Langley

I’m officially the proud curator of my own personal museum thanks to the Muzilife 16×20 Shadow Box Frame in White with MDF Wood Frame and Soft Linen Back. The removable inner frame means I can rearrange my photos and medals anytime I want, which totally satisfies my indecisive streak. Plus, the FSC-certified wood frame makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while showing off my treasures. The metal suspension hook and included mounting accessories made hanging it a breeze, whether on my wall or tabletop. Who knew displaying memories could be this fun? —Clara Winslow

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 16×20 Shadow Box Frame Is Necessary

I’ve found that a 16×20 shadow box frame is essential for preserving and showcasing my most treasured memories in a way that a regular frame simply can’t match. The depth of the shadow box allows me to display three-dimensional keepsakes—like medals, souvenirs, or delicate memorabilia—without them getting squished or damaged. This extra space gives my items room to breathe and makes each piece stand out beautifully.

Another reason I love using a 16×20 shadow box is its perfect size. It’s large enough to hold multiple items or a single statement piece but still fits comfortably on my wall or shelf without overwhelming the space. The frame’s versatility means I can switch out my displays easily, keeping my memories fresh and meaningful.

Ultimately, the 16×20 shadow box frame helps me turn my personal stories into art. It’s not just about protection—it’s about honoring the moments and objects that shape who I am. Having this frame has transformed how I preserve memories, making them a visible, cherished part of my daily life.

My Buying Guides on 16X20 Shadow Box Frame

When I first decided to purchase a 16×20 shadow box frame, I realized there’s more to consider than just the size. Over time, I’ve learned key factors that helped me choose the perfect frame to showcase my cherished memories and collectibles. Here’s my guide to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Size: Why 16×20?

The 16×20 dimension is a popular choice because it offers a generous display area without overwhelming a wall space. I found that this size works well for larger photographs, artwork, certificates, or even three-dimensional items like medals and keepsakes. Before buying, I measured the space where I wanted to hang the frame to ensure it would fit perfectly.

Material Matters: Wood vs. Metal vs. Plastic

Choosing the right material for the shadow box frame can impact both aesthetics and durability. I personally prefer wood frames because they add warmth and a classic look to my decor. Metal frames tend to be sleeker and more modern, which might suit contemporary spaces better. Plastic frames are usually more affordable but can lack the premium feel and sturdiness I look for.

Depth of the Shadow Box

One of the defining features of a shadow box is its depth, which allows for layering and displaying 3D objects. I recommend checking the depth before purchasing—most 16×20 shadow boxes range from 1.5 inches to 3 inches deep. For items like medals, small figurines, or layered artwork, I chose a deeper box (around 2.5 inches) to accommodate everything comfortably.

Glass or Acrylic Front?

The front covering protects your items from dust and damage. I’ve used both glass and acrylic fronts; glass offers better clarity and scratch resistance but is heavier and can break more easily. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, which is great if you’re placing the frame in a high-traffic area or a kid’s room. However, acrylic can scratch more easily, so handle it with care.

Style and Finish

Since the frame is a part of my home decor, I pay close attention to style and finish. Shadow boxes come in various finishes—matte, glossy, distressed, or painted. I matched the frame finish with the room’s overall theme to create a cohesive look. Don’t forget to consider the matting inside the frame; a well-chosen mat can highlight your display beautifully.

Ease of Assembly and Mounting

I appreciated shadow boxes that were easy to open and close, especially since I like to update my displays from time to time. Look for frames with secure yet simple backing mechanisms. Also, check if the frame includes hanging hardware—some come with built-in hooks or stands, which made my life easier during installation.

Price and Brand Reputation

Price can vary widely depending on materials, brand, and features. I set a budget before shopping and read customer reviews to ensure the frame’s quality matched the price. Trusted brands often offer better warranties and customer support, which gave me peace of mind with my purchase.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 16×20 shadow box frame is about balancing size, style, and functionality. By considering the frame material, depth, front cover, and ease of use, I found a shadow box that beautifully displays my treasured items and complements my home. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect shadow box frame for your needs!

Author Profile

Avatar
Judith Dunham
Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.

Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.