Custom framing and matting offer a personalized touch to artwork, photographs, and cherished memories, transforming them into stunning pieces that enhance any space. While off-the-shelf frames are readily available, they often lack the uniqueness and quality craftsmanship of custom options. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or a homeowner looking to showcase your favorite photos, understanding the basics of custom framing and matting can help you create visually striking displays that truly stand out. Let’s dive into Custom Framing and Matting 101 to discover the essentials of this artful process.

1. Selecting the Right Frame: The frame serves as both a protective enclosure and a decorative element for your artwork or photograph. When choosing a frame, consider factors such as style, material, and size. Wood frames offer warmth and versatility, while metal frames provide a sleek, modern look. Additionally, consider the frame’s profile and color to complement the artwork and complement your home’s decor.
2. Understanding Matting Options: Matting, also known as mat board or matting board, is a border placed around the artwork within the frame. It serves several purposes, including providing visual space between the artwork and the frame, protecting the artwork from direct contact with the glass, and enhancing the overall presentation. Matting is available in various colors, thicknesses, and textures, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your framed piece.
3. Choosing Mat Board Colors and Thickness: Mat boards come in a wide range of colors and shades, from classic neutrals like white and black to vibrant hues and earthy tones. When selecting a mat board color, consider the artwork’s color palette and the ambiance you wish to create. Additionally, the thickness of the mat board, known as its ply or depth, can impact the depth and dimensionality of the framed piece.
4. Understanding Matting Techniques: There are several matting techniques used to create visually appealing displays. Traditional matting involves placing a single mat board around the artwork, providing a clean and classic look. Double matting involves layering two mat boards to create depth and dimension, with the inner mat serving as a border or accent color. Float mounting is a technique where the artwork is attached to the back of the frame, allowing it to appear suspended within the frame without matting.
5. Consider Conservation and Preservation: When framing valuable or irreplaceable artwork or photographs, consider conservation framing techniques to protect them from damage caused by light, moisture, and pollutants. Conservation-grade materials, including acid-free mat boards, UV-filtering glass, and archival mounting techniques, help preserve the integrity and longevity of the framed piece.
6. Customizing Frame and Mat Dimensions: Custom framing allows you to tailor the dimensions of the frame and matting to perfectly fit your artwork or photograph. Work with a professional framer to determine the ideal proportions and spacing for your framed piece, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing presentation.
7. Collaborating with a Professional Framer: While DIY framing is an option, collaborating with a professional framer offers expertise, precision, and access to a wide range of materials and customization options. A skilled framer can guide you through the design process, recommend the best framing and matting choices, and ensure that your framed piece is expertly crafted to your specifications.
8. Exploring Finishing Touches: Once the framing and matting are complete, consider additional finishing touches to enhance the overall presentation. This may include adding fillets, liners, or decorative corner accents to the frame, as well as incorporating museum-quality backing and hanging hardware for secure and stylish display.
9. Maintaining and Caring for Framed Artwork: Proper maintenance and care are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your framed artwork. Avoid hanging framed pieces in direct sunlight or humid environments, as prolonged exposure to light and moisture can cause fading, discoloration, and warping. Periodically dust the frame and glass with a soft, dry cloth to remove any debris or buildup.
10. Enjoying Your Custom Creations: Once your artwork or photographs are beautifully framed and matted, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Display your custom creations proudly in your home or office, and take pleasure in knowing that they have been expertly crafted to showcase and protect your cherished memories and artistic endeavors.

In conclusion, custom framing and matting offer endless possibilities for enhancing the beauty and significance of your artwork, photographs, and mementos. By understanding the fundamentals of custom framing and matting, collaborating with a professional framer, and selecting quality materials and techniques, you can create stunning displays that elevate your space and bring joy for years to come.