Introductory Guide to Mats for Your Prints
Vogue Art StudioAfter receiving your poster print from our stylish wall decor collection, you may start considering the best framing and mat options to suit your artwork. In this blog post, we cover some of the main considerations concerning the choices available with regards to selecting the right matting option for you.
Choosing the right mat for your print can enhance its appearance, protect the artwork, and help it better complement your space.
What Is a Mat in Framing Prints and Posters?
A mat is a thin and often decorative paper-based material found placed in a frame. In addition to its visual appearance, mats also serve other purposes including separating a print from the glass.
Mats come in all different shapes, colours and sizes. Professional picture framers will often have available a myriad of different choices, and can also custom make options to suit a particular image.
Types of Mat Board Styles for Framing Artwork
There are several mat board styles you can choose from when framing your artwork. These can include a single, a single with a reveal or a double mat. Otherwise you may wish to not include one at all!
Single Mat Boards
A single mat is just as it sounds, found within the frame surrounding your print and meeting with the frame. This is the most common option you will find and offers a classic look that suits most artwork.
A single mat with reveal offers a slim white space around the image itself, between the image and the mat. There can be several reasons you may wish to opt for this. Often, this is simply for appearance. Otherwise, some artists may include their signature or a limited-edition number within this space.
Double Mat Board Styles
A double mat includes two, where one overlays another. Colours can be the same (e.g., white with white), or alternating, such as a black and a white. Again, your framer will be able to show you examples to help with your decision making.
Framing Without a Mat (Using Spacers)
Finally, you may wish to not include a mat at all. If this is the case, be sure to mention this to your framer. We recommend including spacers, which separate your artwork from the glass allowing it to breath.
Be aware that sometimes including spacers around your image can lead to subtle shadows forming just inward of the frame (especially on white or light colours). Be sure to check out some examples of the different options available prior to confirming your choice.
Benefits of Using a Mat When Framing Prints
There are several benefits of using a mat you should consider when displaying your artwork. The first being that as mentioned above, it creates a separation from the glass and thus allows your print some breathing space.
Secondly, the inclusion of a mat assists to hold your artwork in place. In essence, the print is held or ‘sandwiched’ between the frame’s backing board and the mat. This additional layer of security ensures your print is fully secured. Further, it makes it much easier to handle as you will not be directly contacting your print.
In addition to the above two points, mats also serve a decorative role for your wall art. Most professional framers offer an abundance of colours and styles to suit your preferred taste. Be sure to discuss these options with your framer, and take into consideration the combinations of different styles and frame styles to ensure you achieve your desired look.
How to Choose the Right Mat Size for Your Artwork
Choosing the right mat size depends on both your artwork and the space where it will be displayed. When framing a smaller piece, you may wish to keep everything in scale. For example, you may opt for a smaller mat. On the other hand, you may wish to select a large size for a dramatic look.
The same theories can be applied when framing a larger print. You may wish to include an appropriately large size for visual impact, or perhaps a smaller option to accentuate the artwork, rather than the mat. We always advise talking with your framer who can create and show you various ideas which will help with your decision making.
Be sure to have measured your wall space in advance of meeting with your framer. A small wall which features a large print/mat/frame will make the room feel even smaller. Likewise, a large wall which features an overly small print will lead to the image being ‘lost’ on your wall.
Ideally, provide your framer with your room measurements and perhaps take a photo or two of your room. This way they can see the space you have to work with. They may offer suggestions which options will suit based on the colour of your walls and decor.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Mats for Your Prints
If you don’t already have a preferred framer in mind, don’t be afraid to have a look around. Websites and platforms such as Pinterest and even Google Images are a great starting place. This allows you to view some fabulous ideas and concepts.
Once you have some of these in mind, make sure you do your homework and find a framer who you feel comfortable dealing with. They should offer you a decent selection of options. They should be able to help you along the way and present you with ample information and examples to ensure your artwork is beautifully displayed on your wall.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading this guide! Be sure to check out our Vogue Art Studio blog for additional tips and advice regarding our wall decor. If you're looking to take the next step, be sure to read our complete guide to framing prints and artwork, where we cover frame styles, materials, and tips to help you achieve a polished, professional finish.
If you’d like to learn more about us at Vogue Art Studio, head on over to our website to discover more about our contemporary wall decor and product collections.
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