There are different
ways to approach how to mat and frame your art. For art purists, the
image will usually dictate how it is framed. When decorating is the
priority, consider the room where the framed art will be hanging and
then mat and frame the art to complement the décor.
MATTING YOUR FINE
ART PHOTOGRAPHS AND OTHER ART
Matting is just as important as framing. It’s what draws you into
the image. Museums display small early tintypes and other photographs
in large matted frames. Small images in large frames with oversized
window matting create an intimacy with the viewer and can make even
a small family snapshot look much more interesting and important. On
the other hand, large images tend to work better with slimmer, simpler
frames.
With matting and
framing, a general rule of thumb is to go two standard frames sizes
bigger than the image when matted. A 4” x 6” image should
go in at least an 8” x 10” frame.
Three inches of mat space on each side of an image is a good starting
point. Most people err and use one-inch size matting or smaller or use
precut window mats that come with store bought frames. These are designed
so they fit with industry standard print sizes but don’t necessarily
work in proportion to what you’re framing.
As for what color mat to use when framing photographs, white is usually
the best color.
For black and white photographs especially, a bright white mat always
works. If the image is sepia or very warm toned, or you’re using
a brown wood frame or gold leaf frame, you can try an off-white or warm
white mat. For color photographs, white or off-white are still great
choices because they won’t distract you from the image. If you
do want a bit of color in your mat, create a double mat where the undermat
has the color. Other kinds of art like watercolors, lithographs, prints,
etc. can work well with color mats.
Thick 8-ply matting is always gorgeous when displaying photographs.
It adds depth to the photograph and looks especially beautiful when
using small images in larger mats.
If they are not within your budget, then use four-ply matting. Always
make sure your framer uses acid-free materials to mount your photograph.
FRAMING YOUR ART
When framing your artwork, decide if you want a contemporary or traditional
moulding.
With photography, you can never go wrong with a classic black frame,
especially high quality gallery frames made from solid wood and aluminum.
You can experiment with the thickness of the frame. Different images
will dictate different frame thicknesses
There are also many other beautiful frames to choose from and it’s
worth bringing the image into a frame shop and playing around with the
moulding corner samples. Simple maple, oak, white maple, oak black and
high-end aluminum frames are worth looking into for photographs. Even
ornate gold and silver period frames that tend to be used with other
kinds of art can work beautifully with photographs and other printed
matter. Just make sure the frame and the photograph complement each
other
In addition to frame shops, flea markets and auction houses are great
sources for one-of-a-kind frames. You can match subject with frame –
a photograph of a country barn, for example, might look beautiful in
a rustic, old peeling frame. Again, just be careful that the frame doesn’t
overpower the image and that they work together as a unit.
