Mat Board Colors — How to Pick the Perfect Complement for Your Frame
When it comes to custom framing, most people focus on the frame itself — but the mat board is just as important. A well-chosen mat creates visual breathing room, protects your artwork, and ties the entire presentation together. At Modern Memory Design, we help customers across NJ, NYC, and the US choose mat boards that make their artwork truly shine.
What Is a Mat Board?
A mat board (or mount board) is the thick paper-based border that sits between your artwork and the frame. It serves two purposes: aesthetic (creating visual space around the art) and protective (preventing the artwork from touching the glass, which can cause moisture damage over time).
The Golden Rule: Complement, Don't Match
The most common mistake is choosing a mat that exactly matches the dominant color in the artwork. Instead, look for a subtle accent color — a secondary or background tone that appears in the piece. This creates harmony without making the mat compete with the art itself.
For example, in a coastal landscape like our Framed Beach House by Daniel Pollera, a soft sand or pale blue mat would complement the ocean tones beautifully without overpowering the scene.
White and Off-White Mats: The Safe Choice
When in doubt, go white or off-white. These neutral mats work with virtually any artwork and any frame color. They're especially popular for:
- Black-and-white photography
- Fine art prints and museum reproductions
- Documents, diplomas, and certificates (see our 8.5x11 document frames)
- Minimalist and modern interiors
Colored Mats: When to Go Bold
A colored mat can be a powerful design choice when used intentionally. Deep navy, forest green, burgundy, or charcoal mats add drama and sophistication — particularly effective with:
- Classic oil paintings and Renaissance-style art (explore our Michelangelo Renaissance collection)
- Vintage maps and antique prints
- Bold abstract works
Double Mats: Adding Depth and Elegance
A double mat uses two layers — a larger outer mat and a smaller inner mat in a contrasting or complementary color. The inner mat creates a thin colored border (called a "reveal") that adds visual depth and a premium, gallery-quality look. This technique is especially popular for fine art and jersey framing.
Mat Width: Bigger Is Usually Better
A wider mat makes artwork feel more important and gallery-worthy. As a rule of thumb, the mat should be at least 2–3 inches wide on all sides. For larger pieces, go even wider. The bottom mat border is traditionally slightly wider than the top and sides — a technique called "weighted bottom" that prevents the artwork from appearing to sink in the frame.
Get Expert Help with Custom Framing
Not sure which mat color is right for your piece? Our team at Modern Memory Design offers same-day custom framing in NJ and ships nationwide. We'll help you find the perfect mat, frame, and glass combination for any artwork.
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