A mat is the thick paper-like material you see surrounding artwork.  If fills in the space between the artwork and the frame.  It is true that a mat adds cost to a framing project.  You have the cost of the mat and the frame size, glazing (glass), and backing all increase in size when a mat is used.  However, the results are worth the added cost.  There are several reasons mats are used in framing.

• The original and fundamental purpose of a mat is to keep the glazing from touching the artwork. If the glazing is in contact with the image, there is a risk of mold and/or adhesion between the two substances where they touch. The mat is normally positioned on top of the artwork, and the glazing on top of the mat. The thickness of the mat then determines just how far away from the artwork the glazing is held, leaving a protective air space between the two. There is an alternative for holding the glazing away from the image a material called "frame-space" can be hidden under the lip of the frame to serve the same purpose if mats are not employed.
• The coloration of mats can be used to enhance an image, enliven the artwork, focus the viewer’s eye, or make a statement of importance or elegance. Today, matting as a design element has overshadowed the original purpose of protecting the artwork.
• Most commonly double mats are used. The bottom mat may be used to draw out a particular color or object from the image while the color of the top mat may simply enhance the total piece. Three or more mats can be used. The possibilities are endless.
• Textured mats such as suede, linen, metallic, embossed, or specialty prints can be used to enhance the artwork.
• Specialty mat cuts can be used to make the presentation truly one of a kind. Some examples are octagons, archways, rounded corners, etc.
• Multiple openings can be cut in a single mat to display several images within one frame. Sizes may be the same or varied for added interest.
• A mat can form an area around the image upon which decoration can be added, like decorative grooves, signatures, plaques, etc.
• Matting can be used to make a piece of artwork fit into a pre-made frame which is too large. The mat is cut with outside measurements to match the frame size and inside measurements to match the image size.
• You may want to use mats to make your finished frame bigger so that it will cover a larger wall area than the framed image would by itself. While mat width is typically 2" to 3", any width is possible.

At FastFrame we can show you what the matting prossibilities are for your framing project.  With the right mat and frame an inexpensive piece of artwork can look like a million!

 

This article brought to you by Fastframe located at 6325-61 Falls of the Neuse Rd., Raleigh, NC 27615.

Customer satisfaction is our #1 priority. Ask about our "Design & Craftsmanship Guarantee". We carry a large variety of mats and mouldings. We are experienced in all forms of custom framing, including object and shadow box enclosures & fabric wrapping. At Fastframe, we have developed our own conservation and preservation program, which meets or exceeds the requirements set by the Library of Congress, to protect your treasures. Ask about our Preservation Plus Program ™. Our wide variety of in-stock mouldings allows us to provide the fastest turnaround in town. All of the expert design and crafting is done on Fastframe premises by an experienced staff of professionals. We also stock a variety of artwork and have access to thousands of published prints, posters, and original pieces of art.