Buy DN frames - German standard size frames in all variants

The DN frame (Deutsch Normalmaß, also DNM frame) is one of the most widely used frame sizes in Germany - firmly established in beekeeping associations, training apiaries and among beekeepers who work with classic German magazine hives. At Bienenzucht-Profi you will find DN frames in every common design: Hoffmann sides, straight sides, modified, as half frames, in one-and-a-half size (DN 1.5) and as a kit in parts for do-it-yourself construction. DNM plastic frames are also available. All ready-assembled DN frames are glued, stapled and wired with high-quality stainless steel wire - in horizontal or vertical versions.

Deutsch Normalmaß frame dimensions - Overview of all DN formats

The Deutsch Normalmaß frame dimensions are standardised - within the DN system, however, there are different formats for different frame types. Here is an overview:

The standard size of 370 × 223 mm is by far the most commonly used DN format. All DN variants share the same width of 370 mm - only the height differs depending on the frame type. This means that all DN frames fit into hives with a DN width as long as the frame height is correct.

You can find all DN formats at Bienenzucht-Profi - standard, half, flat frame and one and a half.

DNM Hoffmann frames - the standard type for most DN beekeepers

The DNM Hoffmann frame is the most popular variant in the German standard size. The widened Hoffmann sides automatically ensure the correct comb spacing - you don't need any additional spacers, upholstery nails or cross clamps. Hook in the frames and you're done.

The Hoffmann DNM frame is one of the recommended standards, especially in beekeeping associations and when training new beekeepers, because it eliminates comb spacing errors from the outset. Experienced beekeepers also appreciate the time saved during inspection - no readjustment, no slipping.

Our Hoffmann DNM frames are made of untreated wood, glued and stapled in most of our designs for maximum stability, and wired with stainless steel wire. Available in horizontal and vertical wiring.

DNM frames wired vertically - a popular alternative

With DN frames, you have the choice between horizontal and vertical wiring - both variants have proven themselves in practice and are equally popular with beekeepers.

Horizontal wiring with DN is the classic and most widespread. It gives the centre wall an even hold over the entire surface and is suitable for all areas of application - brood chamber and honey chamber.

DN vertical wiring is favoured by beekeepers who rely on particularly high comb stability during spinning - the vertically tensioned wire directly counteracts the centrifugal force. Some beekeepers use vertically wired frames specifically in the honey chamber, while they work horizontally in the brood chamber.

Both variants work reliably - the choice is a question of personal preference and the method of operation. At Bienenzucht-Profi, DNM frames are available vertically wired and horizontally wired, each with Hoffmann sides and straight sides.

DN frames with straight sides - full flexibility in comb spacing

The DN frame with straight sides gives you the freedom to determine the honeycomb spacing yourself. With upholstery nails, cross clamps or side spacer pins, you can determine how your frames are positioned - closer in the brood chamber, further in the honey chamber, depending on your operating style.

Straight sides are the classic option for beekeepers who want maximum control over their hive. In certain hive types designed for straight sides, this format is the only choice anyway.

Naturally in the same quality as our entire DN line: glued, stapled and wired with stainless steel wire.

DN frame modified - reinforced top beam with centre wall guide

The DN frame modified has a reinforced top beam with a groove that serves as a guide when inserting the centre panel. The centre wall immediately sits straight and stable - no readjustment, no slipping when soldering.

In addition, the reinforced construction gives the comb more support during honey extraction. The DNM frame modified is a popular choice with beekeepers who value efficiency in frame preparation and comb stability during harvesting.

Available with Hoffmann sides(DNM Hoffmann modified) and with straight sides(DNM modified straight). Both variants are usually glued, stapled, stainless steel wire.

DN half frames - for honey frames and flat frames

The DNM half frame (370 × 112 mm) is the compact format for honey frames and DN flat frames. The half height makes the honeycombs lighter and easier to handle - this can facilitate both removal and uncapping.

For beekeepers who regularly harvest large quantities of honey, half DN frames can make work noticeably easier. Full half frames can be processed more quickly and put less strain on the back than heavy full frames.

Available with Hoffmann sides and straight sides - in the usual top quality from Beekeeping-Professional.

DN 1.5 frames - the one and a half size for more brood area

The DN 1.5 frame (370 × 330 mm) is the one-and-a-half size in the DN system. It offers significantly more contiguous brood area than the standard DN frame - ideal for beekeepers who want to provide their colonies with a spacious brood nest without having to switch to a different hive system.

The DN 1.5 frame dimensions (370 mm wide, 330 mm high) require higher frames than the DN standard. The width remains identical - a DN 1.5 frame therefore fits into any hive with a DN width, provided the frame height is sufficient.

The DN 1.5 is also an interesting alternative for beekeepers who are wavering between the compact standard DN and a change to Dadant - more brood area with the same hive width.

Optionally with Hoffmann sides or straight sides. Like all our DN frames, top quality for the hobby beekeeper as well as the professional beekeeper.

DNM frames with centre wall - ready for use

For beekeepers who want to save time, we offer selected DNM frames with a centre wall - soldered in and ready for immediate use. The centre panel sits straight, is cleanly connected to the wire and the frame can be hung directly into the frame.

This option is particularly practical for beginners and for beekeepers who need to prepare larger quantities at once. Available in selected models at Bienenzucht-Profi.

DNM plastic frames - the durable alternative

The DNM plastic frame is an easy-care alternative to wooden frames. The advantages: less reaction to moisture, easy cleaning, long service life and consistent dimensional stability over the years.

Plastic frames are particularly suitable for beekeepers who prioritise hygiene or work in humid climates where wooden frames could wear out more quickly. Plastic frames are also less sensitive to wax moth control (freezing, treatment).

DNM plastic frames are available in standard sizes from Bienenzucht-Profi.

Honeycomb frames DNM - honeycombs directly from the hive

DNM comb honey frames are special frames that are specifically designed for the production of capped honeycombs. Honeycomb honey is a premium product - honey that is sold directly in the natural honeycomb, without extracting or processing. Its intense, unadulterated flavour makes it particularly popular with customers.

Our DNM honeycomb frames are designed in such a way that the bees fill the honeycomb evenly and cleanly. The result: an appealing product that sells extremely well both on the market and in direct sales.

We also have accessories for extracting and packaging your comb honey in our range.

DN frames in parts - kits for self-assembly

We offer suitable kits for beekeepers who want to build their own DN frames. Self-assembly is particularly economical for larger quantities - you save money compared to pre-assembled frames and can assemble them to your own standards.

Our DNM frames in parts contain precisely milled side parts, top and bottom beams made of untreated wood. Available as:

Whether DN Hoffmann, straight sides, modified - each variant is available as a kit in parts. The kits contain side panels, top and bottom beams, precisely milled and ready for immediate assembly.

The necessary assembly accessories - stainless steel honeycomb wire, eyelets, wire tensioners, nailing pliers and nail pushers - are also available from us.

DN frames and bee colonies - everything in the right size

Those who beekeep on DN want bees that fit directly into the hive. Our DN Offshoots are supplied on 5 DN frames - you hang them up and the colony can continue working immediately. There are four breeds to choose from: Buckfast, Carnica, Dark Bee and Ligustica.

Alternatively we offer Artificial swarms 1.5 kg of bees with or without a queen, which can be placed in any hive regardless of format. And for beginners in beekeeping there are Starter sets with a DN hive and matching nucleus - all designed to work together.

Order DN frames from Bienenzucht-Profi

Whether a single frame or a complete set - at Beekeeping-Professional you will find all DN variants under one roof. Whether pre-wired and ready to use, fitted with a centre wall or as a kit for self-assembly - the choice is yours. All wooden frames made of untreated wood, glued and stapled, wired with stainless steel wire.

Unsure about the dimensions or wiring? Give us a call or write to us - we'll be happy to help.

Frequently asked questions - DN frames at Bienenzucht-Profi [FAQ]