When framing photos or artwork, a mat isn’t just a decorative border—it’s a way to protect your cherished pieces.
A well-chosen mat enhances the aesthetic appeal of whatever you’re framing. But beyond looks, a mat also provides a crucial barrier against damage, preventing the artwork from directly contacting the glass. This is especially important for delicate items like photographs or watercolors.
Let’s explore the purpose of a matted picture, how to choose the right matting, and how to care for your framed pieces so that they last.
What is frame matting and why is it used?
Frame matting is a thin border that surrounds a photo or artwork inside a picture frame. It’s usually made of mat board, often acid-free, and it sits between the art and the frame itself.
Why use matting?
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Matting can make a picture look better. It gives the image some visual space and helps draw the eye to it.
- Artwork Protection: Matting keeps the art from touching the glass, which can cause damage over time. Acid-free mats also help prevent the art from deteriorating.
- Adding Depth: Matting adds depth and dimension to the framed piece, making it more visually interesting.
Choosing the Perfect Mat
The mat you choose for your picture can make or break the whole presentation. Here are some factors to consider:
Mat Material
It’s important to choose a mat that’s acid-free and of archival quality. Otherwise, the mat itself could damage the artwork over time, causing it to yellow and deteriorate.
The three basic types of mat board are:
- Rag mats (made from cotton)
- Conservation mats
- Decorative mats
Mat Color
The color of the mat can either enhance or detract from the artwork. Think about whether you want the mat to complement the artwork or provide a strong contrast.
Some tips for choosing mat color:
- Consider the colors already present in the artwork.
- Think about the style and color palette of the room where the picture will hang.
- When in doubt, choose a neutral color like white, off-white, or gray.
Mat Width
A wider mat creates a more dramatic effect, while a narrow mat offers a more subtle enhancement. When choosing the width of the mat, think about:
- The size of the artwork
- The size of the frame
- The proportions of the artwork itself
Layering Mats (Accent Mats)
Layering mats is a technique that can add depth and sophistication to a piece. The idea is to use two mats, one on top of the other, with the bottom mat (the accent mat) peeking out just slightly from underneath the top mat.
For the best effect, choose contrasting colors for the two mats.
How to care for your matted picture
Here’s how to keep your matted picture in good shape:
- Protect it from the environment. Direct sunlight will fade the image, and humidity can encourage mold and mildew.
- Clean the glass carefully. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Abrasive cleaners can scratch the glass.
- Store it properly. A cool, dry place is best. Never stack matted pictures on top of each other, as this can damage the matting and the picture itself.
- Consider professional framing. Ask your framer about UV glazing for extra protection. They can also seal the back of the frame to keep out dust and pests.
Closing Thoughts
When you’re framing artwork or photographs, matting can make all the difference. It enhances the appearance of the piece and protects it from damage.
When choosing and caring for matted pictures, choose acid-free mats, carefully consider the color and width, and protect your framed art from sunlight and moisture.
If you’re unsure about the best way to frame your art, a professional framer can help you protect your artwork and beautifully display it.