[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"app-navigation":3,"blog-category-mat-board":138,"posts-2-10-mat-board":141},{"tree":4,"leafs":137},[5,30,47,64,77,133],{"uid":6,"label":7,"to":8,"children":9},"MTM0","Custom Frames","/ctg/custom-frames",[10,14,18,22,26],{"uid":11,"label":12,"to":13},"MjI3","Custom Wood Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/wood",{"uid":15,"label":16,"to":17},"MjI2","Custom Metal Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/metal",{"uid":19,"label":20,"to":21},"MjI4","Canvas Floater Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/canvas-floater-frames",{"uid":23,"label":24,"to":25},"MjI5","Stretcher Bars","/ctg/custom-frames/stretcher-bar-frames",{"uid":27,"label":28,"to":29},"MjMw","Frame Samples","/ctg/custom-frames/frame-moulding-samples",{"uid":31,"label":32,"to":33,"children":34},"MjMz","Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic",[35,39,43],{"uid":36,"label":37,"to":38},"Mjk0","Non-Glare Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/non-glare",{"uid":40,"label":41,"to":42},"Mjky","Standard Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/standard-glass-acrylic",{"uid":44,"label":45,"to":46},"Mjkz","UV Filter Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/uv-filter",{"uid":48,"label":49,"to":50,"children":51},"MjMx","Matboard","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board",[52,56,60],{"uid":53,"label":54,"to":55},"MjY0","Custom-Cut Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/pre-cut-mats",{"uid":57,"label":58,"to":59},"MjM2","Full Sheet Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/full-sheet-mat-boards",{"uid":61,"label":62,"to":63},"MjM1","Matboard Color Samples","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/mat-board-samples",{"uid":65,"label":66,"to":67,"children":68},"MjMy","Foamboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board",[69,73],{"uid":70,"label":71,"to":72},"Mjg5","Custom-Cut Foamboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board/custom-foam-board",{"uid":74,"label":75,"to":76},"MjM3","Full Sheet Foamboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board/full-sheet-foam-boards",{"uid":78,"label":79,"to":80,"children":81},"MTM1","Framing Supplies","/ctg/framing-supplies",[82,107,120],{"uid":83,"label":84,"to":85,"children":86},"MTM1-group-0","Assembly & Mounting","/ctg/framing-supplies/assembly-and-mounting",[87,91,95,99,103],{"uid":88,"label":89,"to":90},"MjQz","Adhesives & Glue","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/adhesives-glue",{"uid":92,"label":93,"to":94},"MjQy","ATG Tape","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/atg-tape",{"uid":96,"label":97,"to":98},"MjQw","Hinging Tape & Tissue","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/hinging-tape-tissue",{"uid":100,"label":101,"to":102},"MjQx","Photo Corners & Strips","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/photo-corners-strips",{"uid":104,"label":105,"to":106},"MjM0","Picture Frame Spacers","/ctg/framing-supplies/picture-frame-spacers",{"uid":108,"label":109,"to":110,"children":111},"MTM1-group-1","Hanging & Finishing","/ctg/framing-supplies/hanging-and-finishing",[112,116],{"uid":113,"label":114,"to":115},"MjQ0","Hanging Hardware","/ctg/framing-supplies/picture-frame-hanging-supplies",{"uid":117,"label":118,"to":119},"MjQ2","Cleaning Supplies","/ctg/framing-supplies/cleaning-supplies",{"uid":121,"label":122,"to":123,"children":124},"MTM1-group-2","Protection & Storage","/ctg/framing-supplies/protection-and-storage",[125,129],{"uid":126,"label":127,"to":128},"Mjk4","GalleryPouch™ Art Bags","/prod/gallery-pouch",{"uid":130,"label":131,"to":132},"Mjc4","Photo Storage Boxes","/ctg/framing-supplies/backing-and-protection-supplies/clear-bags-and-storage-boxes",{"uid":134,"label":135,"to":136},"Mjgx","Sale","/ctg/picture-frames-discount",{"MjI3":10,"MjI2":14,"MjI4":18,"MjI5":22,"MjMw":26,"Mjk0":35,"Mjky":39,"Mjkz":43,"MjY0":52,"MjM2":56,"MjM1":60,"Mjg5":69,"MjM3":73,"MjQz":87,"MjQy":91,"MjQw":95,"MjQx":99,"MjM0":103,"MjQ0":112,"MjQ2":116,"Mjk4":125,"Mjc4":129,"Mjgx":133},{"id":139,"name":140},"dGVybTozMTk=","Mat Board",{"posts":142,"total":245},[143,157,170,183,196,209,222,233],{"id":144,"title":145,"uri":146,"content":147,"excerpt":148,"date":149,"modified":150,"categories":151,"image":154},"cG9zdDoyMzc1","White Mat Boards for Picture Frames: Understanding the Differences in Color","/mat-board/white-mat-boards-for-picture-frames-understanding-the-differences-in-color","\n\u003Cp>One of the most common framing questions we get is how to tell the difference between white \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board.html\">picture frame mat boards\u003C/a> we sell. In this post, I’ll explain the basic differences between the and provide suggestions as to what types of art look best with each color of white mat board.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Artists and DIY picture framers use white mat boards for many different reasons such as gallery and museum requirements and the type of artwork being framed.  Wondering \"Which white should I use?\" is a common question. Many artists assume that matching a white mat board with your art is easier than matching your art with a colored mat board, but both can be a tricky process.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you decide to go with a white mat board, the next question is often “What COLOR of white mat board?” In the framing world, white is definitely not just standard printer paper white.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>(Very) Basic Color Theory\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>COLOR is a broad concept that includes three components: Tonal value (degree of lightness or darkness), the hue (innate or actual color), and the saturation (intensity). Looking at a color wheel, you can see that HUES are the 12 purest and brightest colors and that the spectrum runs clockwise from warm to cool.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Color-Wheel/Color-Wheel.png\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_462,h_486,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444483/blog/Color-Wheel/Color-Wheel.png?_i=AA\" alt=\"Frame Destination - Color Wheel\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-2376\" data-format=\"png\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444483\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>What Color Is White?\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Notice that white is not included on the color wheel; this is because white is achromatic, or a color without chroma or hue. As you can see from the collage of “white” objects below though, few things are absolutely pure white. This is especially the case with white mat board, which tends to be either a cool or warm white.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Collage-of-White-Examples-/Collage-of-White-Examples-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2000,h_1000,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444476/blog/Collage-of-White-Examples-/Collage-of-White-Examples-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Frame Destination - Collage of Shades of White\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-2377\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444476\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>What Colors of White Mat Board Does Frame Destination Sell?\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame Destination sells four brands of mat board – Papermat, Alphamat, Alpharag, and Crescent. Each brand offers several different whites. I have listed all of the true whites that we carry for each brand below and provided a brief color description. Please note that it’s always best to get samples due to the color calibration differences in monitors. This list, however, should provide a basic idea of which ones might work best with your art so you can request the appropriate samples.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Papermat – WC 4Ply  \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>222 (Smooth White) – bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>097 (Polar White) - slightly warmer than the 222 – Smooth White\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>251 (Antique White) - warmest of three whites, similar to cream\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Bainbridge Alphamat 4Ply\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>8463 (Spanish White) - bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8519 (Snowflake White) - bright, warm white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8313 (Snowflake White, Black Core) – cool white, slight blue/gray cast due to the black core\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8464 (Matte White) – slightly warmer than the 8463 – Spanish White\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8559 (Photo White) - warm, slightly off-white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Bainbridge Alpharag 4Ply\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>8655 (Pure White) - bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8634 (White) – bright, warm white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8647 (Pearl White) – warm, off-white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Bainbridge Alpharag 8Ply\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>8653 (Pure White) - bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8660 (White) – bright, warm white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>8647 (Pearl White) – warm, off-white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Crescent Select 4Ply\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>9500 (White Glove) - bright, warm, creamy white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>9613 (Super White) - bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>9505 (White Wash) - neutral, warm, off-white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>9506 (Egg White) - warm, off-white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>9804 (Pure White) - bright, warm white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>9800 (Bakers White) - neutral, off-white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>9801 (Chalk) - bright, warm white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Crescent 4Ply RagMat Museum\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>1170 (Cool White) - cool to neutral, off-white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>2253 (White) - bright, warm, creamy white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>1126 (Sand Dollar) - warm, creamy white, slightly darker the 2253 (White)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>1112 (Soft White) - warm, yellow white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Crescent Select Conservation Solid 8Ply\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>25700 (Vivid White) - bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Crescent 8Ply Rag Mat Museum\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>2238 (White) – bright, cool white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>21126 (Sand Dollar) – bright, warm white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>21112 (Soft White) - warm, light yellow white\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>2239 (Antique White) - warm, yellow white\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Which Color of White Mat Board Is Right for My Art?\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This is another frequent question from our customers. As a general rule, I tell customers that black and white photographs, floral art, and artwork with heavy or bright saturated colors tend to look best with bright to neutral white mat boards. Sepia-toned photos, beach and/or autumn scenes, or any image with a strong yellow undertone usually calls for a warm, off-white, creamy, or yellowish mat board. Remember, the final choice is always up to you!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For this post, I came up with a couple of white mat board pairing ideas for the images below. Keep in mind these are guidelines only. If you are in doubt about what color mat board you need, please \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/info/contact-us.html\">contact us\u003C/a> and/or order samples.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>B&W Image\u003C/strong>\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Black-and-White-Picture/Black-and-White-Picture.png\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_642,h_429,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444473/blog/Black-and-White-Picture/Black-and-White-Picture.png?_i=AA\" alt=\"Frame Destination - Black and White Picture\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-2379\" data-format=\"png\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444473\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Suggested White Mat Boards:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Papermat – WC 4Ply - Smooth White (222)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alphamat 4Ply - Spanish White (8463)and Snowflake White with Black Core (8313)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alpharag 4Ply/8Ply - Pure White (8655/8653)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select 4Ply - Super White (9613) and Bakers White (9800)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select Conservation Solid 8Ply - Vivid White (25700)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent 8Ply Rag Mat Museum - White (2238)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"> \u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Saturated and/or Bright Colors\u003C/strong>\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Bright-Color-Picture/Bright-Color-Picture.png\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_643,h_429,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444470/blog/Bright-Color-Picture/Bright-Color-Picture.png?_i=AA\" alt=\"Bright Color Picture\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-2380\" data-format=\"png\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444470\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Suggested White Mat Boards:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Papermat – WC 4Ply - Smooth White (222) and Polar White (097)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alphamat 4Ply - Spanish White (8463) and Snowflake White (8519)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alpharag 4Ply/8Ply - Pure White (8655/8653) and White (8634/8660)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select 4Ply - Super White (9613) and Bakers White (9800)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select Conservation Solid 8Ply - Vivid White (25700)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent 8Ply Rag Mat Museum - White (2238) and Sand Dollar (21126)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"> \u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Sepia and Warm/Yellow-Toned Images\u003C/strong>\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Yellow-Tone-Image/Yellow-Tone-Image.png\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_643,h_429,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444467/blog/Yellow-Tone-Image/Yellow-Tone-Image.png?_i=AA\" alt=\"Yellow Tone Image\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-2381\" data-format=\"png\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444467\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Suggested White Mat Boards:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Papermat – WC 4Ply - Antique White (251) and Polar White (097)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alphamat 4Ply - Matte White (8464) and Photo White (8559)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alpharag 4Ply/8Ply - Pearl White (8647)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select 4Ply - Egg White (9506) and Pure White (9804)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent 4Ply RagMat Museum - Sand Dollar (1126) and White (2253)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent 8Ply Rag Mat Museum - Soft White (21112) and Antique White (2239)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"> \u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Nature Images with a Greenish Tint \u003C/strong>\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Neutral-Colored-Photo/Neutral-Colored-Photo.png\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_572,h_429,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444464/blog/Neutral-Colored-Photo/Neutral-Colored-Photo.png?_i=AA\" alt=\"Neutral Colored Photo\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-2382\" data-format=\"png\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444464\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Suggested White Mat Boards:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Papermat – WC 4Ply - Polar White (097) and Antique White (251)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alphamat 4Ply - Matte White (8464) and Photo White (8559)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Bainbridge Alpharag 4Ply/8Ply - Pearl White (8647)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select 4Ply - Egg White (9506), Pure White (9804), and Bakers White (9800)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent 4Ply RagMat Museum - Sand Dollar (1126) and White (2253)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent 8Ply Rag Mat Museum - White (2238), Soft White (21112), and Antique White (2239)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Crescent Select Conservation Solid 8Ply - Vivid White (25700), depends on the shade of green\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/White-Mat-Board-Pairings/White-Mat-Board-Pairings.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1006,h_1456,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444365/blog/White-Mat-Board-Pairings/White-Mat-Board-Pairings.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-2375 wp-image-3591\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444365\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n","\u003Cp>One of the most common framing questions we get is how to tell the difference between white picture frame mat boards we sell. In this post, I’ll explain the basic differences between the and provide suggestions as to what types of art look best with each color of white mat board. Artists and DIY picture […]\u003C/p>\n","2016-10-13T09:44:14","2023-05-16T12:29:02",[152],{"name":140,"slug":153},"mat-board",{"url":155,"label":156},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/FD-WhiteMat_SocialAd.png","",{"id":158,"title":159,"uri":160,"content":161,"excerpt":162,"date":163,"modified":164,"categories":165,"image":167},"cG9zdDoyMDQ1","The 7 Most Popular Mat Board Styles Defined","/mat-board/the-seven-most-popular-mat-board-styles-defined","\n\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The style, color and cut of a mat board can dramatically change the look of your framed artwork and photos. While most ready-made frames have a typical, generic mat, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/mat-board/the-definitive-guide-to-mat-board\">understanding your mat board options\u003C/a> can help you achieve the final look you’re envisioning. Here are seven popular mat board styles that will each give your framed art a unique look and feel.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(1) Single Mat Board with Four Equal Borders\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A single mat, with the image centered, is the most common style of \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board.html\">matboard\u003C/a>. In this style of mat presentation, all four of the mat borders surrounding the window opening are the same width. This style gives all types of artwork a clean, simple look. Most of our popular sizes feature centered mats with equal borders.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2044\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Single-Mat-with-Equal-Borders-/Single-Mat-with-Equal-Borders-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_293,h_342,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444490/blog/Single-Mat-with-Equal-Borders-/Single-Mat-with-Equal-Borders-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Single Mat with Equal Borders\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2044\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444490\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Single Mat with Equal Borders\u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(2) Bottom-Weighted Mat Board\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A bottom-weighted mat is where the bottom border of the mat board is wider than the top and sides. There are several different schools of thought on the origin of bottom-weighting. One school believes it originated with the Victorian tradition of hanging picture frames high up on the walls, while another feels it's due to cultural preferences for a solid base. The scientific school of thought states it's based on the fact that the optical center, which is the place where a viewer's eye spends most of its time, is slightly above the true geometric center in a rectangular region.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>How much wider should the bottom border be? It depends on the image size, but 1/2\" to 2 inches is average. You can create bottom-weighted mat borders in custom size on our by clicking the “Customize this preset frame size” box while creating your custom mat board.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2038\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Bottom-Weighted-Mat-/Bottom-Weighted-Mat-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_292,h_342,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444543/blog/Bottom-Weighted-Mat-/Bottom-Weighted-Mat-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Bottom-Weighted Mat\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2038\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444543\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Bottom-Weighted Matboard \u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(3) Double and Triple Mats\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A double mat consists of two (2) mat boards stacked together, a top mat and a bottom mat. The window opening of the bottom mat surrounds the image. The top mat has a larger window, which allows a small border of the bottom mat, called the reveal, to be shown. The width of the reveal varies; however, it generally averages between 1/8” and 1/2\" and most often it’s a different color. Double mats create physical and visual depth. Triple mats are used as well, and they are especially popular for sports memorabilia, such as team jerseys. Our website allows you to create double and triple mats in different colors to create your own custom-designed frame package.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2039\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Double-Mat-/Double-Mat-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_294,h_341,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444538/blog/Double-Mat-/Double-Mat-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Double Mat\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2039\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444538\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Double Mat Board Example \u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(4) Multiple Opening Mat Board\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A multiple or multi-opening mat is one that contains more than one window opening. Individual openings of identical or variable sizes and shapes are cut in one mat to display a number of items. \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/c/multiple-opening-mat-fee.html\">Multiple opening mats\u003C/a> are used for photo collage projects, trading cards, baseball cards, antique stamps, or other collectibles. We can create a multiple opening mat board for you. Select the “Multiple Opening Mat Fee” on the main mat board page and follow the instructions for submitting your order.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2040\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Multiple-Opening-Mat-/Multiple-Opening-Mat-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_318,h_399,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444540/blog/Multiple-Opening-Mat-/Multiple-Opening-Mat-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Multiple Opening Mat\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2040\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444540\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Multi-opening Window Mat\u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(5) Museum Mat Board\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A museum mat has a wide top and side border, plus a significantly wider bottom border. Museum mats are named such because this style if often used by museums for displaying certain types of artwork. The mat colors used are typically whites, blacks, or pale neutral colors. The museum mat style is well-suited for smaller works of art such as drawings, engravings, and watercolor paintings. Our website lets you create mat border sizes in almost any custom-size width you desire.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2041\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Museum-Mat-/Museum-Mat-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_364,h_462,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444535/blog/Museum-Mat-/Museum-Mat-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Museum Mat\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2041\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444535\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Classic Museum Mat Example\u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(6) Oriental Mat Boards\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Oriental mats are designed to mimic Asian scroll art proportions, the narrow mat borders are usually one third or less than the width of the wider borders. This type of mat is used both horizontally and vertically. It’s used most often with Asian art; however, it looks great with any type of elongated art. On our website you can adjust the mat border sizes to your preferred widths and create the perfect mat.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2042\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Oriental-Mat/Oriental-Mat.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_184,h_473,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444495/blog/Oriental-Mat/Oriental-Mat.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Oriental Mat\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2042\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444495\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Oriental Mat \u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">(7) Print Matboard\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A print mat has wide side borders and much narrower top and bottom borders. Some references say it originated from a publisher’s habit of printing original limited edition prints on oversized sheets of paper, while others say it was to preserve the value of original art on paper by not cutting or altering it in any way. You can design an extremely cool print window mat on our website by checking the “Customize this preset frame size” box while creating your mat.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-post-2045 wp-image-2043\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Print-Mat-/Print-Mat-.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_554,h_343,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444492/blog/Print-Mat-/Print-Mat-.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Print Mat\" class=\"wp-post-2045 wp-image-2043\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444492\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cstrong>Print Mat Board\u003C/strong>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Shop all matboards to check out all of the different matboard types that we sell.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>The style, color and cut of a mat board can dramatically change the look of your framed artwork and photos. While most ready-made frames have a typical, generic mat, understanding your mat board options can help you achieve the final look you’re envisioning. Here are seven popular mat board styles that will each give your […]\u003C/p>\n","2016-06-21T17:04:54","2023-02-21T19:48:03",[166],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":168,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/mat-board-styles.jpg","most popular mat board styles",{"id":171,"title":172,"uri":173,"content":174,"excerpt":175,"date":176,"modified":177,"categories":178,"image":180},"cG9zdDoxNzAw","The Materials of Mat Board","/mat-board/the-materials-of-mat-board","\u003Cp>Mat boards are a key component to any framed work of art or photograph—and they’re not just for aesthetics. Mat boards, positioned in between the artwork and the glass, are flat pieces of paper that contain an open window through which the artwork shows. They are designed to keep the glass away from the surface of the artwork while offering a more professional look to the framed piece. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Not all mat boards are the same, however. It is important to carefully consider the type of mat board you select for your frame—and not just for appeal, but for the long-term preservation of your piece. \u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The Types\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Mat boards vary by their material, the qualities of those materials, and their intended use. Whether you are interested in preserving a family heirloom for decades to come or you are decorating your home or office with store-bought prints, you will want to ensure you select the best mat board for the job. \u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Cotton\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>This type of mat board, also known as rag mat board, is made with a cotton core and backing rather than a wood-based core. There are two types of cotton rag mat board: regular cotton rag mat board, which features face papers, or “museum quality” cotton rag mat board, which does not. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>For museum quality cotton rag mat board, the process through which the cotton is colored is restricted; this keeps it safe for artwork. Because there are no face papers, the bevel, which reveals the core of the mat board, is the same color as the surface. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Regular cotton rag mat board will have a face paper, which can be colored, while the bevel typically remains white. Face papers are made from, of course, paper—because paper can become acidic, some cotton rag mat board face papers are buffered with calcium carbonate. This treatment allows the paper to more readily absorb acidic compounds, but it does not make it truly “museum quality.” In cases where certain types of photo prints can become damaged by the calcium carbonate, “unbuffered” archival mat board is more suitable. \u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Alpha-Cellulose\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>This acid-free mat board is composed of alpha-cellulose fibers, the purest form of paper pulp, and is moderately priced. Alpha-cellulose is created through mechanical or chemical separation of fibers from wood or other plants like hemp, cotton or straw. When processed, the fibers are finer than human hair and purified. Alpha-cellulose mat board can also be treated to offer active protection against harmful pollutants, but this process can be harmful to some prints. Alpha-cellulose mat board can be considered archival, though not museum quality. \u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Wood Pulp \u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>This type of mat board, also known as paper mat board, is the most common and least expensive. However, paper mat boards are not recommended for long-term preservation of art pieces and should be used as a temporary solution (fewer than five years) if you want to maintain the quality of the image or art. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Wood pulp is made from wood chips processed chemically or mechanically to break down the bulk structure into smaller fibers. This material is then sent for further processing to become paper products. Paper mat boards contain lignin, a natural material found in wood. When lignin breaks down, it produces acid; this happens more rapidly if the mat board is exposed to humidity or direct sunlight. As the acid reaches the artwork, it will “burn” it and leave a brown stain. It also causes the paper to become brittle and disintegrate over time. The damage caused by acid is irreversible. \u003C/p>\n\n\u003Ch2>Mat Board Matters to Keep in Mind\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The choice of mat board depends on your interest in protecting the artwork and the aesthetics. Mat boards intended to conserve artwork often have fewer color options as dye is sometimes harmful to the artwork; temporary mat boards are often available in a wide range of colors. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you are concerned about the long-term preservation of your piece, you can find many mat board options to meet your needs. Mat boards are now made to not only prevent damage they may cause to the artwork overtime, but also to provide additional protection from environmental hazards. Professional-grade mat boards aren’t just for priceless works of art in the museum—they can be used to protect priceless family photos, too. \u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Mat boards are a key component to any framed work of art or photograph—and they’re not just for aesthetics. Mat boards, positioned in between the artwork and the glass, are flat pieces of paper that contain an open window through which the artwork shows. They are designed to keep the glass away from the surface […]\u003C/p>\n","2015-08-25T18:58:59","2015-08-25T19:00:22",[179],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":181,"label":182},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/matboards.jpg","types of matboard",{"id":184,"title":185,"uri":186,"content":187,"excerpt":188,"date":189,"modified":190,"categories":191,"image":193},"cG9zdDoxNTc0","Float Mounting Artwork in a Frame Using Mat Board","/mat-board/float-mounting-artwork-on-uncut-mat-board-blanks","\n\u003Cp>Float-mounting is a mounting technique where the edges of the artwork are left uncovered. When mounted this way, the artwork appears to be floating within the frame or mat board window. Float-mounting is normally used when the image goes all the way to the edge of paper and you don’t want any of it covered. It’s also a great way to show off paper with deckled or torn edges.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Float Mount Your Artwork\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Measure Your Art, Obtaining the Width & Height\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Artwork/Artwork.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_491,h_592,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444622/blog/Artwork/Artwork.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Artwork\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1584\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444622\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Determine how much visible area you want around the matboard and then calculate the uncut matboard size. \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A common question I get with regards to float-mounting is “How much space should be left around the art?” There’s no right or wrong answer, but typically I like between 1/2\" – 2 inches of space. For this image, I decided not to use a mat. I went with a 2-inch visible border around the art using an uncut blank mat board as the backing.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Calculate the Outside Dimension\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Image sizes are normally expressed as width by height (width” x height”). The “sign stands for inches. Keep in mind; however, that you are dealing with four sides. *Remember to double whatever number you are adding to each side.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For example:\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Artwork size = 9” x 12”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Desired visible area = 2 inches\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/CalculateUncutDimension/CalculateUncutDimension.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_591,h_692,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444619/blog/CalculateUncutDimension/CalculateUncutDimension.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"CalculateUncutDimension\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1585\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444619\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Pick Out Uncut Mat\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Finally, it’s time to mount using tape for hinging floating artwork\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>We are using a v-hinge; which looks exactly like the t-hinge, except the tape is completely hidden under the artwork.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When you hinge artwork it’s preferable to hinge the top only, allowing the bottom to hang free. This allows the paper to expand and contract with temperature changes. However, if your paper is warped and just won’t lie flat, you can also add a small hinge at the bottom. Let’s get started!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Flip your artwork over keeping the top of the image close to you. Cut 4 strips of Self-Adhesive Linen Hinging Tape. The length of the strips depends on the size of your artwork. If your paper is less than 30 inches, 1 – 4 inches is typically fine.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1192/1192.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2135,h_1668,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444611/blog/1192/1192.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1192\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1586\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444611\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Make your first hinge; remove the paper backing from one of the strips and place it in the top corner – vertical, with the sticky side UP. Remove the paper backing from a second piece and place it horizontally, sticky side DOWN across the top. It should look like a capital “T”. The bottom edge of the “T” should be slightly lower than the top edge of the paper. Repeat on the other side with the remaining 2 strips of tape.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1193/1193.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2032,h_1755,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444603/blog/1193/1193.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1193\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1587\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444603\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1197/1197.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1891,h_2560,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444592/blog/1197/1197.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1197\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1588\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444592\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Closeup of the hinge. *Note – if your paper is very wide, you may need 3 or more hinges across the top.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1196/1196.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2448,h_1879,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444583/blog/1196/1196.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1196\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1589\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444583\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Flip your artwork over and carefully center it on the uncut matboards. Do not press down on the hinged area until it is properly centered. Using a tape measure to check the border sizes is the most accurate way of centering.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1202/1202.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2128,h_1835,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444574/blog/1202/1202.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1202\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1590\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444574\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1199/1199.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1738,h_1716,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444568/blog/1199/1199.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1199\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1591\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444568\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Once your artwork is centered, gently smooth the top edge of paper to create the adhesion.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1201/1201.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2186,h_1553,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443370/blog/1201/1201.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"1201\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1592\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443370\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame your floated artwork in your favorite wood or metal picture frame!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FramedArtwork/FramedArtwork.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2107,h_2560,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661444553/blog/FramedArtwork/FramedArtwork.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"FramedArtwork\" class=\"wp-post-1574 wp-image-1593\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661444553\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Products We Used\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Uncut Mat Board – Bainbridge 4-ply Alphamat in Mimosa \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame – Nielsen Profile 24 in Brushed Satin German Silver \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>Float-mounting is a mounting technique where the edges of the artwork are left uncovered. When mounted this way, the artwork appears to be floating within the frame or mat board window. Float-mounting is normally used when the image goes all the way to the edge of paper and you don’t want any of it covered. […]\u003C/p>\n","2015-04-30T16:59:34","2022-10-06T16:24:49",[192],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":194,"label":195},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/float-mounting-artwork1.jpg","Float mounting artwork",{"id":197,"title":198,"uri":199,"content":200,"excerpt":201,"date":202,"modified":203,"categories":204,"image":206},"cG9zdDoxMjE3","How Professionals Preserve Priceless Documents & Art","/mat-board/preserving-art-with-artcare","\u003Cp>Many of our historical artifacts are absolutely irreplaceable. While the language and information contained in documents can be transcribed, and artwork can be photographed or reproduced, the originals are one-of-a-kind links to our past.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>It's a sad fact that many of these artifacts have been mistreated over time, or that some of them are simply made from materials that are naturally prone to deterioration. Conservationists work to discover the best ways to treat damage and to prevent future harm to historical artifacts by careful handling, housing and storage. Innovative products like \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/matboard-selection\">Artcare™ matboard\u003C/a>s and mount boards helping them with this work. The MicroChamber® technology used in Artcare™ framing materials actively protects documents and artwork by absorbing airborne pollutants and trapping such pollutants inside the mount board or matting, preventing them from ever touching – or corrupting – the framed artifact.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Artcare™ framing materials are used by internationally respected organizations as part of ongoing efforts to protect priceless artifacts. To demonstrate how Artcare™ helps protect artwork, documents, and other framed materials, here are a few stories about how Artcare™ has been used in the conservation of some of our national historical treasures.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The Wright Brothers Collection\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>When Orville Wright passed away in 1948 – 36 years after the death of his brother Wilbur – he deeded the brothers' collection of aviation-related documents and materials to the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Augmented by donations from others, the full collection contains approximately 300 artifacts related to the earliest history of flight research, including approximately 120 paper-based artifacts.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>With the approach of the 100th anniversary of the Wright brothers' famous first powered flight, the Institute undertook the job of reviewing the collection for conservation needs. Some initial conservation efforts were made in 1978, but modern conservation technology is more advanced than what was possible at the time. Each document in the collection was individually reviewed for any cleaning and repair needs, and all of the artifacts were rehoused in special hinged portfolios constructed of mat board.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The conservators for the project chose to use a 4-ply Artcare™ Alpharag to construct the new housings, primarily because of Artcare's use of absorbent zeolites as a buffer. In the words of one of the lead conservators on the project, zeolites act as \"molecular sieves,\" filtering gaseous pollutants out of the air and also absorbing any pollutants created by the deterioration of the paper artifacts themselves. With the help of Artcare™ Alpharag mat board and the diligent work of conservators, the Wright brothers' historical aviation documents will continue to be available for future generations to view and be inspired by.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Original Audubon Prints\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>John James Audubon was a naturalist and painter best known for his massive color-plate book \"The Birds of America,\" which contained 435 beautiful and highly detailed prints showing North American birds in natural habitats. One of the remaining full sets of prints belongs to the Maryland State Law Library, which enlisted the help of conservators to clean and rehouse the prints so they could be displayed in a new exhibit.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The original prints were each backed with linen, and the adhesive used to attach the linen was starting to stain the prints. The prints were also contaminated with surface dirt, page edges were damaged from repeated turning, and some prints suffered from creases, tears, or loss of paper or ink. Conservation of the prints required several steps, including removing the linen backing, cleaning the prints, making repairs to stabilize the prints and minimize the appearance of any damaged sections, and then rehousing the prints.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Similar to the Wright brothers' collection, the conservators chose to use Artcare™ Alpharag mat board for the new housings because of Artcare’s 100 percent cotton construction as well as Artcare’s protective zeolites, which absorb pollutants. The prints were each hinged to a supporting back mat with a window mat overlay to conceal damaged edges. Conservators also included a top cover that can be folded back for display, but that covers each print to provide protection when stored and to help maintain the integrity of each print.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>George Washington's Will\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Constructing a new display housing for George Washington's will presented a unique challenge for the conservators involved. The will comprises 22 pages of handwritten script on both sides of the paper, meaning the document could not be traditionally framed. The document has also suffered previous damage from handling and poor storage and needed to be supported and protected to prevent further decay.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>One of the conservators’ main concerns was the iron gall ink used by Washington to write the will because that type of ink tends to degrade and emit damaging gasses over time. To protect the document from \"self-inflicted\" damage by the iron gall ink, as well as damage from modern pollutants, conservators chose Artcare™ Alpharag for the mat board’s outstanding absorbent properties. Special two-sided housings were constructed from Artcare™ mat board to support the document pages, opening to lay flat so either side of the pages can be viewed and covering the entire document when stored to protect this irreplaceable historical artifact from any further deterioration.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Many of our historical artifacts are absolutely irreplaceable. While the language and information contained in documents can be transcribed, and artwork can be photographed or reproduced, the originals are one-of-a-kind links to our past. It’s a sad fact that many of these artifacts have been mistreated over time, or that some of them are simply […]\u003C/p>\n","2014-08-27T09:18:20","2018-02-23T13:45:56",[205],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":207,"label":208},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/preserving-art-with-artcare.jpg","preserve art with artcare",{"id":210,"title":211,"uri":212,"content":213,"excerpt":214,"date":215,"modified":216,"categories":217,"image":219},"cG9zdDo5NDg=","Understanding the Types of Picture Frame Mat Boards","/mat-board/understanding-mat-board-types","\n\u003Cp>When framing a picture, you may opt to include a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board.html\">matboard\u003C/a>. The main reason to do this extends beyond aesthetics. In fact, when using a high quality mat board, it is possible to protect your picture or artwork from being discolored by the acidic properties of a wood frame or from external factors, including the wall the frame is being hung on. The mat creates a buffered border that prevents acid from destroying what you are trying to protect.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame Destination carries three types of mat boards to give you the desired color, price and properties for your framing project. Each of these mat boards has specific properties that make them more desirable. Take a look at each one before making a decision about which is right for you and your next custom picture framing project. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. \u003Cspan>Rag Mat Board\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The highest quality mat board you can purchase is made from cotton. It is typical for any mat boards made from cotton to be called ‘rag.’ It is the same term used when talking about paper documents or even the paper used for making money. Rag is extremely durable and will stand the test of time by blocking all acid from getting to the picture.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The board consists of separate plies of rag board, all dyed to the color you choose. The colors available are somewhat limited and the pricing is higher than any other mat board, but it is a fair tradeoff to have the kind of mat board used in the finest museums. All rag mat boards are considered conservation quality and will best protect your framed art or photos.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>These mats can consist of 4, 6 and 8 plies, making a thickness that ranges from 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch. Frame Destination carries rag mat board from Bainbridge (AlphaRag) and Crescent (RagMat). \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. \u003Cspan>AlphaMat Mat Board\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Museums also sometimes use the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/mat/bainbridge-4ply-alphamat.html\">AlphaMat mat board\u003C/a> because it consists of cellulose perfect for archival framing. Cellulose is a less expensive mat board than rag but has all of the same beneficial properties. In addition, cellulose can provide more color options for inside your frame.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When looking at cellulose mat boards, you will notice they are described as 4-ply. Keep in mind this does not indicate there are four layers of mat board. Instead, it indicates the approximate thickness of the mat board. There are no choices in thickness for this type of mat board – the depth of these mats at Frame Destination is 1/16 inch – but it is still a museum quality board that will endure for as long as you need it.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. \u003Cspan>Papermat Mat Board\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Paper mat boards are the least expensive of all the mat boards, but they also do the least to protect your pictures over time. These boards are treated with calcium carbonate to neutralize the acidity of the wood pulp used to make the mat. The problem is that this buffer will deteriorate over time, and the acidity of the wood in the paper mat will eventually damage the picture. These mat boards are recommended for temporary framing and should only be used for a period of up to five years.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Papermat comes in a variety of colors – from bright and bold, to subdued and neutral – making it a good choice for home décor (as long as it’s changed according to the commendations). Frame Destination carries Papermat mat boards with a soft cream core or a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/mat/papermat-wc-4ply.html\">crisp white core\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>When framing a picture, you may opt to include a matboard. The main reason to do this extends beyond aesthetics. In fact, when using a high quality mat board, it is possible to protect your picture or artwork from being discolored by the acidic properties of a wood frame or from external factors, including the wall […]\u003C/p>\n","2013-12-17T12:22:13","2022-12-07T15:32:49",[218],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":220,"label":221},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/FrameDestination-Blog-MatBoardOpeningSize-001.jpg","mat board openings",{"id":223,"title":224,"uri":225,"content":226,"excerpt":227,"date":228,"modified":229,"categories":230,"image":232},"cG9zdDo0MTM=","Understanding Mat Board Window Openings","/mat-board/mat-board-opening-size","\u003Cp>Today, let’s talk about mat board window openings. It may not sound like an exciting topic, but understanding how to calculate mat board window opening sizes is a crucial skill for DIY picture framers. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The mat window opening, also known as the exact mat opening, is the opening that is cut in a mat board through which the image can be viewed. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Window-Opening-Example/Window-Opening-Example.jpeg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_300,h_300,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661447195/blog/Window-Opening-Example/Window-Opening-Example.jpeg?_i=AA\" alt=\"mat window opening example\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-post-413 wp-image-2434\" data-format=\"jpeg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661447195\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Standard mat window openings are cut slightly smaller than the actual image size — this is called “cropping” the image. The opening is smaller in order to cover the edge of the image or any surrounding white border if it is a print. This is both an aesthetic (it looks better) and a practical choice; you don’t want the image to fall through the window opening if it’s cut too large!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Standard, off-the-shelf frames that come with mats usually crop ¼ inch on all four sides. Frame Destination cuts our popular size mat windows 1/8-inch smaller than the image to allow for maximum exposure of your image without a loss of detail. For images that are larger than 18” x 24”,  our standard crop is ¼-inch.\u003Cbr>\nExample: Your image measures exactly 8” x 10”. This is the actual image size, exclusive of any white borders, if it is a print. If you choose an 8” x 10” mat in one of our popular sizes, the actual window opening size will be 7 3/4” x 9 3/4”, which crops 1/8-inch of the image on all four sides. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Example\u003C/strong>: Your image measures exactly 8” x 10”. This is the actual image size, exclusive of any white borders, if it is a print. If you choose an 8” x 10” mat in one of our popular sizes, the actual window opening size will be 7 3/4” x 9 3/4”, which crops 1/8-inch of the image on all four sides. \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Mat-Window-Dimensions/Mat-Window-Dimensions.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_247,h_300,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661447191/blog/Mat-Window-Dimensions/Mat-Window-Dimensions.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"mat window dimensions\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-post-413 wp-image-2436\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661447191\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you prefer less or more cropping of the image, check the “customize this preset frame size” box and select your preferences. You can also always contact us  for advice on the best mat window opening size for your artwork. \u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Today, let’s talk about mat board window openings. It may not sound like an exciting topic, but understanding how to calculate mat board window opening sizes is a crucial skill for DIY picture framers. The mat window opening, also known as the exact mat opening, is the opening that is cut in a mat board […]\u003C/p>\n","2010-07-11T14:18:28","2016-12-30T13:33:33",[231],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":220,"label":221},{"id":234,"title":235,"uri":236,"content":237,"excerpt":238,"date":239,"modified":240,"categories":241,"image":243},"cG9zdDozNzg=","Proper Mat Size for Matting an Image","/mat-board/proper-mat-size-for-matting-an-image","\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\">\u003Cimg src=\"https://www3.framedestination.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/FD-BlogHero_MatSize-F.jpg\" alt=\"Proper mat size for matting a picture\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Framing sounds simple on paper, but it’s trickier than you may think. Determining the proper mat size and mat opening for a print or photograph is one of the more confusing issues facing novice framers.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>First, be sure you understand the two different measurements associated with \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board.html\">matboards\u003C/a>. There is the \u003Cstrong>overall mat size\u003C/strong>, which is the outside measurement of the mat board.  Then, there is the \u003Cstrong>mat window measurement\u003C/strong>, which is the size of the opening in the mat through which we see the image.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In this article, we’ll talk about how to properly measure the mat dimensions. We’ll also venture into the World of Basic Math, as some of us may need a little refresher. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Measure the Dimensions\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_939,h_105,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443319/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler in Inches\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5936\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443319\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To determine the overall dimensions of the mat, measure the glazing size (size of the glass or acrylic) of the intended frame. If the glass fits inside the frame without too much wiggle room, then it’s a good template for cutting the mat to its overall size.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For the mat window size, one general rule is that the window should \u003Cem>not\u003C/em> be the same size as the print or photo. Cutting a mat to the exact dimensions of the outer border of a picture or photograph is almost impossible and it is just as difficult to get them lined up perfectly.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Off-the-shelf, picture frames usually have \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/pre-cut-mats.html\">pre-cut mat\u003C/a> boards with openings that are half an inch smaller than the intended picture size. For example, a 16″ x 20″ frame that includes a mat for framing an 11″ x 14″ print or photograph will have a mat window opening somewhere in the neighborhood of 10 1/2″ x 13 1/2″.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This result is the mat overlaps each side of the print by 1/4 inch. A quarter of an inch does not sound like much on its own, but it adds up since every mat has four sides. The overlap is desired to help keep the art in place within the frame.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Large Should the Mat Border Be?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">O\u003C/span>ne of the most common questions from DIY framers is how large should the mat border be? While we can make suggestions, the answer is: However big you’d like! As a general guideline, the mat should be at least 1.5 times the size of the frame to keep the frame from overpowering the artwork. Adjusting the size of the visible mat will dramatically change the appearance of your art, so it’s important to have an understanding of the desired final look.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Practice for Frame Mat Size\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Many professional framers, including Frame Destination, recommend a mat border of 2 to 4 inches (unless you have a specific look in mind that calls for a wider or narrower mat). This provides the “traditional” framed look with a mat border that is equal on all sides and doesn’t overwhelm the art.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If your art is smaller, you may want to opt for a border that is closer to 2 inches to avoid overwhelming the artwork. Larger framed pieces can support wider mat borders while still retaining that classic framed look.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame Destination can custom cut a mat to any size, so you're not restricted to a standard frame size.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>It’s also important to consider the color of the mat you’ve chosen. You can display a large amount of a neutral color mat board without it overwhelming and distracting from the art, but if you’ve opted for a bright, rich or bold colored mat, you may want to consider a narrower border.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More Mat = More Impact\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When putting together a framed photo or piece of art, three major components will affect the look and feel of the final piece:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>The art\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>The frame\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>The mat\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In traditional framing practices, the mat plays a supporting role. But there may be times you want the mat to have a much bigger impact. Large mat borders can give your art a “gallery” look, drawing more attention to your art if you’re displaying it on a large wall.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Opting for a weighted mat (where one or more sides has a wider mat border) is another popular option. Taking weighting to an extreme is a popular modern look that pairs well with black and white photography. You can choose from \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/mat-board/the-seven-most-popular-mat-board-styles-defined\">many mat board styles\u003C/a> to give your art the look you want.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s3\">Using bright or bold colored mats is another way to add impact to your art, particularly for black and white photos. Mat board is available in just about every color of the rainbow, so you’re not limited to earth tones or neutrals when framing.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Adding Depth Without Size\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you want to add depth, character, or color to your mat without overwhelming the art or opting for a large mat border, consider layering mats. In a layered mat situation, two or three mats (often of different colors) are framed. The top layer is the most visible, while you’ll see smaller amounts of each of the lower layers.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">This technique allows you to add some depth to your framing or introduce a touch of color. For just subtle color pop, choose a neutral or subtle top mat, then select a bold or bright hue for the second layer. This technique is ideal when you want to highlight a color featured prominently in the art, but don’t want a full-color border. To highlight more than one shade, opt for a triple mat with a neutral top and colorful second and third mats. Or you can achieve a modern look by layering white-black-white mats.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For depth without color, opt for mat layers that are the same shade or have slight variations within the same palette. This will give you a tiered look without adding more color.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Layered mats can be as large as you’d like, so you can use this technique with large borders or with the traditional 2- to 4-inch mat border.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How We Do It at Frame Destination\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>At the end of the day, how big your frame border is depends on personal preference and your desired look. When you order a mat board from Frame Destination, you can play with the sizes to see how your art will look with its new mat. You can even upload your image for a preview and change the colors of the mat and frame to see all your options before you buy.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>We carry several varieties of mats, including 100% cotton, acid-free, and lignin-free mats with solid color throughout. Some of our mats trap and neutralize pollutants and acid by-products. All our mats feature larger windows than most store-bought mats, meaning more of the image shows through in a framed piece.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Standard mat window openings usually overlap the art between 1/8 inch or 1/4 inch. This overlap helps hold down the artwork and keep it in place, so you don’t have to worry about the mounting board showing in the finished framing package. Our website allows you to customize your mat window opening to overlap your art more, or less if you desire.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Matting for a Float Mount\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003Cfigure class=\"alignright size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1201/1201.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2186,h_1553,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443370/blog/1201/1201.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-1592\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443370\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\u003Cp>Although allowing the mat to overlap the image is the most common matting technique, sometimes using a mat opening that is larger than the image, known as “\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/info/picture-framing-glossary.html\">float mounting\u003C/a>,” works best. This matting technique prevents any masking (or covering) of any part of the framed image. It is especially useful when you want the ability to view the artist’s signature or print data.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>There are several ways to accomplish this look, including using different overlap measurements on different edges of the work. Usually, the side and top border measurements are between 1/4 to 1/2 inch and the bottom is expanded to reveal between 1/4 and 1 inch of the border. In most cases, the bottom dimensions of a mat are equal to the top and sides, but the presence of a signature changes that. Getting it right requires a little math along with some good measuring skills. Beyond that, a common mistake is to forget to double the border size when calculating the opening.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For example, if the signature is shorter than 1/2 inch, you can use 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch top and side borders with a slightly larger 1/2-inch bottom border. If the signature has a height of 3/4 inch, you can use 1/2-inch top and side borders. In this case, the mat opening will be 1 inch larger than the image width, and 1 1/4 inches larger than the image height.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Sometimes drawing out a sketch prior to making any cuts helps better visualize your goals. Beyond that, never forget that the adage “measure twice, cut once” doesn’t just apply to carpentry.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Short Detour to Mathville\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Some of us break out into a cold sweat at the mention of the “m” word, but don’t be afraid! Making artwork is a passionate endeavor and one that doesn’t necessarily lend itself to precision. Art often ends up in non-standard, custom sizes. Or in the case of specialty paper with exposed deckled edges, it takes a bit of finagling to order the right mat boards and framing. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you are in the United States, a country that uses the English ruler as the standard system of measurement, learning how to read a ruler will help you measure your art accurately so that you can order the proper-sized mat boards and picture frames.  \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>So, let’s talk about the English ruler and how to read one. And let’s address fractions, which are a defining component of the English ruler, and how to work with fractions in the context of picture framing.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What is an English ruler? \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>English rulers provide incremental measurements in inches, with each inch further divided into smaller and smaller fractions. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What are fractions?\u003C/em> \u003C/strong>Fractions are a visual representation of the parts of a whole. For example, a whole pie can be divided into fractional pieces such as 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, etc., depending on how many people you need to serve (and how hungry they are).\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fractions \u003C/strong>consist of a \u003Cstrong>numerator \u003C/strong>and a \u003Cstrong>denominator.\u003C/strong>  \u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Numerator\u003C/strong>: the top number, which equals the number of parts out of a whole. \u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Denominator\u003C/strong>: the bottom number, which shows the total number of equal parts an item is divided into.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>How do you read a ruler for English measurements? \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>English rulers or English tape measures are marked at different levels of precision. The diagrams below illustrate how to read them from various precision levels. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Below is a ruler marked in 8ths. Every mark is 1/8 of an inch.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_939,h_105,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443319/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_8thRuler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler in Inches\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5936\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443319\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This ruler is even more precise, marked in 16ths. Every mark is 1/16 of an inch.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_16thRuler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_16thRuler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_939,h_105,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443317/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_16thRuler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_16thRuler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler 1/16 Inch\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5937\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443317\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The center mark between numbers is 1/2 inch. The highlighted lines on these rulers are marked at 1/2 inch and 1 1/2 inch.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_half-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_half-mark-ruler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_918,h_105,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443315/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_half-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_half-mark-ruler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler Marked Every 1/2 Inch\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5938\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443315\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The next smallest marks are 1/4 inch. The highlighted lines on these rulers are marked at 1/4, 3/4, 1 1/4, 1 3/4 inch.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_quarter-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_quarter-mark-ruler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_918,h_105,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443313/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_quarter-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_quarter-mark-ruler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler 1/4 Inch\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5939\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443313\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The next smallest marks on a ruler are 1/8 inch. The highlighted lines on these rulers are marked at 1/8, 3/8, 5/8, 7/8, 1 1/8, 1 3/8, 1 5/8 and 1 7/8 inch.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_eighth-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_eighth-mark-ruler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_840,h_96,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443311/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_eighth-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_eighth-mark-ruler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler 1/8 Inch\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5940\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443311\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The next smallest mark, if there are any, are 1/16 inch. The highlighted lines on this ruler are marked at 1/16, 3/16, 5/16, 7/16, 9/16, 11/16, 13/16, 15/16, 1 1/16, 1 3/16, 1 5/16, 1 7/16, 1 9/16, 1 11/16, 1 13/16, 1 15/16 and 2 1/16 inch. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_sixteenth-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_sixteenth-mark-ruler.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_439,h_105,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443310/blog/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_sixteenth-mark-ruler/FD-MatSize_BlogIMG_sixteenth-mark-ruler.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ruler 1/16 Inch\" class=\"wp-post-378 wp-image-5941\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443310\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Shortcut for “inches.” \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>From here on, we’ll use the double straight quotation mark (″) to refer to inches. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>How do I add/subtract fractions? \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>In framing, you will typically be working with fractions with the same denominator. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For example: \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>We need to add two measurements: 3/16″ + 9/16″. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Step One: \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Since we have a common denominator (16), we add the numerators (3 and 9):\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>3/16 + 9/16 = 12/16\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Step Two: \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Simplify the final fraction by reducing it to the lowest term. Find the \u003Cstrong>Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)\u003C/strong> — aka, Greatest Common Factor (GCF). \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Common Divisor\u003C/strong>: a whole number that can evenly divide two or more numbers.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)\u003C/strong>: the largest number among the common divisors of two or more numbers. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In the example of above, 12/16, both the numerator (12) and the denominator (16) are divisible by 2 and by 4. Always divide using the largest possible number, in this case 4.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>12 ÷ 4 = 3\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>16 ÷ 4 = 4\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>= 3/4 \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Your final measurement is 3/4\".\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Real World Framing Example with on \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/mat-board/cropping-vs-floating-artwork-when-using-matboard\">\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Floating Artwork\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>My image size is 4 1/2″ W x 3 1/2″ H.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I want to add a \u003Cstrong>1/2″ border\u003C/strong> all the way around my image; the image plus that border will be my mat window opening. REMEMBER: Because a frame has four equal sides, \u003Cem>whatever you add to one side needs to be doubled!\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Width: \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>4 1/2″ W\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>1/2″ x 2 = 1″  (doubling the 1/2″ border)\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>4 1/2″ W + 1″ = 5 1/2″ W\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Height: \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>3 1/2″ H\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>1/2″ x 2 = 1″ (doubling the 1/2″ border)\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>3 1/2″ H + 1″ = 4 1/2″ H \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Your mat window opening would be 5 1/2″ W x 4 1/2″ H.  \u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you need help with calculating fractions, this fractional calculator can save the day: \u003Ca href=\"https://www.calculatorsoup.com/calculators/math/fractions.php\">https://www.calculatorsoup.com/calculators/math/fractions.php\u003C/a>. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What fractional level does Frame Destination cut materials to? \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>At Frame Destination, we use the English ruler system, and we work with fractions at a precision level of 1/16″— 1/16, 2/16 (= 1/8), 3/16, 4/16 (= 1/4), 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 8/16 (= 1/2), 9/16, 10/16 (= 5/8), 11/16, 12/16 (= 3/4), 13/16, 7/8, 15/16.  \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What can I do if I have a complicated piece of artwork that’s hard to measure? \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you need help with measuring, and/or calculating your fractional mat board measurements, trust us, you’re not alone. Please feel free to contact us at 972-479-1188 or \u003Ca href=\"mailto:sales@framedestination.com\">sales@framedestination.com\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In Praise of Mats\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Mats are an integral part of framing. Practically, mats help keep the framed image flat, and provide a buffer layer between the art or photo and the frame glazing. Aesthetically, mats help accent the framed item, presenting your art at its best and creating a unique look. Depending on the mat’s composition, it can even help preserve your artwork.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In other words, getting matting right may not always a piece of cake, but it’s always worth it!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Matting Should Be Around a Picture?\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The amount of matting around a picture depends on several factors such as the purpose of the mat, the size of the picture, the frame, and aesthetic preferences. In general, matting serves to enhance the artwork and create a buffer between the art and its frame, protecting the piece from any moisture or direct contact. Typically, a mat can be anywhere from 1.5\" to 4\" or even wider, depending on the size of the artwork and the desired effect. However, it's essential to strike a balance; too much matting might overpower the artwork, while too little may not provide enough protection or visual appeal.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if the Frame is Too Big for the Picture?\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If the frame is too big for the picture, several solutions can be considered. One can use matting to center and accentuate the artwork, bridging the size gap between the image and the frame. Alternatively, options like a floating frame can be employed, where the picture appears suspended with space around it. If aesthetics are significantly impacted by the size discrepancy, one might choose to add decorative backing, create a collage with other images, or even opt for a different frame that better complements the picture. The objective is to ensure the artwork is enhanced and not overshadowed by the framing choice.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Written by \u003Ca href=\"/info/mark-rogers-author.html\">Mark Rogers\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/c_lpad,dpr_2.0,q_auto/v1/media/wysiwyg/Mark_Rogers.jpeg?_i=AB\" alt=\"Mark Rogers\"> Mark Rogers is the President and Co-Founder of Frame Destination. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Mark has become a leading authority on framing techniques and best practices, and has earned a reputation for his innovative approaches to custom framing and frame services for photographers and artists.\u003C/p>\u003Cbr>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Updated September 29, 202\u003C/strong>3\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>Framing sounds simple on paper, but it’s trickier than you may think. Determining the proper mat size and mat opening for a print or photograph is one of the more confusing issues facing novice framers. First, be sure you understand the two different measurements associated with matboards. There is the overall mat size, which is the […]\u003C/p>\n","2010-02-07T13:37:56","2023-09-29T16:01:11",[242],{"name":140,"slug":153},{"url":244,"label":156},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/FD-BlogHero_MatSize-F.jpg",18]