Frame Mats
Frame mats are an essential component in the world of photography and art display, offering both protection and a refined visual presentation for your most treasured images and prints. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a passionate artist, or simply someone who loves to preserve family memories, the right mat can transform a simple photograph into a gallery-worthy piece. Mats serve as a physical barrier between the artwork and the frame’s glass, preventing moisture buildup and the risk of the image sticking to the glass—an especially important consideration during the winter months, when condensation can be more prevalent indoors. Available in a variety of thicknesses, from standard 4-ply to robust 8-ply boards, mats also come in a broad spectrum of colors and textures, allowing you to tailor the look to your personal taste or the aesthetic of a particular room. For those who value longevity, archival and museum-grade mats, which are acid-free, help ensure that cherished prints and original artworks remain vibrant and intact for decades.
Selecting the right mat involves a blend of practical considerations and creative choices. When framing a photograph or artwork, the mat’s width should generally exceed the frame’s moulding by at least one inch, creating a balanced border that draws the eye inward and enhances the visual impact of the piece. Neutral tones are often favored for their timeless appeal, but bolder colors or textured finishes like suede can add a distinctive flair to special projects or highlight specific hues within the artwork itself. Double mats, which layer two boards for added dimension, are popular for those seeking a professional, multi-dimensional effect. Pre-cut mats in standard sizes offer convenience for common frame dimensions, while uncut matboards can be customized for unique or non-standard pieces, making them ideal for artists and photographers who frequently work with varying formats. Gifting a beautifully matted print or photograph is a thoughtful gesture, especially at the start of the year when friends and family may be looking to refresh their living spaces or commemorate recent milestones. For those exploring creative lighting solutions to further enhance their framed displays, consider pairing your mat selections with options from our Lighting Frames collection.
Matting is not just about aesthetics—it’s about safeguarding your artistic investments and personal memories. As you curate your space or prepare a special gift, take the time to consider the interplay of mat thickness, color, and material quality. Archival mats are indispensable for preserving valuable or sentimental pieces, while standard mats offer a cost-effective solution for everyday projects. Many enthusiasts find joy in experimenting with different mat and frame combinations, discovering how subtle changes can dramatically alter the mood and focus of a display. Whether you’re building a gallery wall, preparing an exhibition, or simply framing a favorite winter landscape, the right mat brings depth, elegance, and protection to every piece.
Selecting the right mat involves a blend of practical considerations and creative choices. When framing a photograph or artwork, the mat’s width should generally exceed the frame’s moulding by at least one inch, creating a balanced border that draws the eye inward and enhances the visual impact of the piece. Neutral tones are often favored for their timeless appeal, but bolder colors or textured finishes like suede can add a distinctive flair to special projects or highlight specific hues within the artwork itself. Double mats, which layer two boards for added dimension, are popular for those seeking a professional, multi-dimensional effect. Pre-cut mats in standard sizes offer convenience for common frame dimensions, while uncut matboards can be customized for unique or non-standard pieces, making them ideal for artists and photographers who frequently work with varying formats. Gifting a beautifully matted print or photograph is a thoughtful gesture, especially at the start of the year when friends and family may be looking to refresh their living spaces or commemorate recent milestones. For those exploring creative lighting solutions to further enhance their framed displays, consider pairing your mat selections with options from our Lighting Frames collection.
Matting is not just about aesthetics—it’s about safeguarding your artistic investments and personal memories. As you curate your space or prepare a special gift, take the time to consider the interplay of mat thickness, color, and material quality. Archival mats are indispensable for preserving valuable or sentimental pieces, while standard mats offer a cost-effective solution for everyday projects. Many enthusiasts find joy in experimenting with different mat and frame combinations, discovering how subtle changes can dramatically alter the mood and focus of a display. Whether you’re building a gallery wall, preparing an exhibition, or simply framing a favorite winter landscape, the right mat brings depth, elegance, and protection to every piece.
