Custom Picture Framing 101 Styles, Matting and Sizing

Understanding Frame Style Profiles

Choosing the right frame is the first step to beautifully showcasing your artwork. The profile of a frame—its shape, width, and decoration—plays a crucial role in the final presentation. From ornate, traditional designs to sleek, modern minimalism, the style you select should harmonize with both your art and your interior decor.

• Ornate Frames: Featuring intricate carvings and gilded finishes, these are perfect for classical artwork and traditional interiors.
• Traditional Frames: Timeless wood finishes with subtle detailing that complement a wide variety of art styles.
• Modern Frames: Characterized by clean lines and minimal profiles, often in metal or acrylic, for a contemporary, gallery-style look.
• Plain/Simple Frames: Understated designs that allow the artwork to take center stage, ideal for photography and modern art.

Canvas Framing Options Explained

Canvas art requires a different approach to framing. There are three primary methods, each offering a unique aesthetic and level of protection for your piece.

• Canvas Stretching: The canvas is stretched over wooden bars (stretcher bars), creating a gallery-wrapped edge that can be displayed as-is or placed in a floater frame.
• Floating Frame: The stretched canvas sits inside the frame with a visible gap, creating a sophisticated "floating" effect that adds depth.
• Traditional Over-Canvas Frame: The frame molding overlaps the edges of the canvas, providing a classic, finished look and maximum protection.

A Guide to Mat Width for Professional Presentation

The mat board is the decorative border between the artwork and the frame. Its purpose is not just aesthetic; it also creates a protective air gap between the art and the glass. Proper mat width is essential for a balanced, professional look.

• Small Artwork (up to 8x10"): Use a 2-3 inch mat.
• Medium Artwork (11x14" to 16x20"): A 3-4 inch mat is optimal.
• Large Artwork (20x24" and up): A 4-6 inch mat provides visual balance.
• Pro Tip: Consider "bottom-weighting" your mat—making the bottom border slightly wider (by about 0.5-1 inch) to create a subtle optical lift.

How to Select the Right Frame Size

Calculating the final frame size is straightforward. The key is to account for the artwork, the mat, and the frame profile itself.

Standard Sizing Formula: Artwork Size + Mat Width (x2) + Frame Width (x2) = Total Frame Size

For example, an 8x10" artwork with a 3" mat and a 1" frame will result in a 16x18" finished piece.

Matching the Perfect Frame to Your Artwork

The perfect frame should feel like a natural extension of the artwork. It enhances the piece without overpowering it. Consider these three principles when making your selection:

1. Color Matching: Choose a frame that picks up an accent color from the artwork, or opt for a versatile neutral like black, white, or natural wood.
2. Style Coordination: Pair traditional art with ornate frames and contemporary art with modern, minimal frames.
3. Environment: Consider the room where the art will be displayed. Match the frame finish to your existing decor for a cohesive look.

The Art of Matting: Single, Double, and Triple Mats

Matting adds a level of sophistication and protection to your framed art. While a single mat is classic, layering multiple mats can create stunning visual effects.

Single Matting

A single mat provides a clean, professional presentation and is the most common choice for photos, prints, and posters.

Double Matting

A double mat uses two layers, with the bottom mat showing a small "reveal" of color (typically 1/4 inch). This technique adds depth and is perfect for fine art prints, diplomas, and certificates.

Triple Matting

For a museum-quality presentation, a triple mat offers maximum impact. With three layers, it creates a rich, dimensional border reserved for valuable artwork and heirloom pieces.