Matting Artwork: A Comprehensive Guide

Matting is an excellent method for safeguarding your artwork while also showcasing it effectively. With a diverse selection of colors, sizes, and materials available, you can craft the ideal mat board frame for your pieces. Mastering the art of matting may require some time and practice, but it will ultimately save you from the hefty expenses of professional framing services.

Prepare Your Workspace Ensure your work area is clean and free from any debris. A thorough wipe-down with a damp cloth followed by drying is essential. Since you'll be handling delicate artwork and precise measurements, maintaining a tidy space is crucial for optimal results.

Calculate Total Board Size Determine the dimensions of your artwork and mat border. Then, using these measurements, calculate the total size of the mat board needed, considering the window for displaying the artwork and the border around it.

Mark Outer Edges Lightly mark the corners of both the mat and backing boards to indicate where they need to be trimmed. Ensure accuracy by using a tape measure or ruler.

Frame Measurements When planning to frame your matted artwork, ensure that both the backing and mat boards fit snugly within the frame. Utilize the frame's back to verify the measurements. Adjust the border size if necessary.

Trace Measurements Remove the artwork and trace the marked measurements on both the mat and backing boards using a ruler and pencil. Create rectangles or squares as needed.

Cut Carefully Using a straight-edge razor, carefully cut along the traced lines on the backing and mat boards. Maintain steady pressure and ensure straight cuts for precise results. Utilize a straight-edge tool for assistance if needed.

Ensure Clean Cuts Cut along the marked lines twice to cleanly remove the mat board window without applying excessive force, preventing damage. Make each cut precise and aligned with the others.

Center Your Artwork Position your artwork centrally on the backing by measuring and marking equal spaces on all sides. Mark the corners to denote the correct placement.

Check Alignment Verify the centering by placing the mat board window over the artwork. This step allows you to preview the final appearance of your matted piece.

Secure with Weight Once centered, use a weight such as a sock filled with coins or a heavy glass to hold the artwork in place while you attach the components. Although minor shifts are normal, your markings will aid in maintaining alignment.

Hinge Artwork to Backing Use linen or archival tape to hinge your artwork to the backing. Apply two vertical strips of tape on each side of the back, then add two horizontal strips over them to secure the art without touching the backing.

Use Photo Corners or Mounting Strips Apply four photo corners or eight mounting strips to the backing corners or sides respectively. These conservation-friendly options prevent damage to your artwork.

Create Taped Hinge for Window Mat Align the window mat and backing, then tape them together using a single strip of linen tape. Position the tape so half is on the window and half on the backing, then fold them together.

Invest in Dry Mounting Equipment Consider purchasing a tacking iron, dry mounting tissues, and a professional heating press for a permanent and stable mount. This option is suitable for frequent mounting needs but may not be ideal for conservation purposes.

Size the Backing Board Calculate the size of the backing by adding the desired window border size to the artwork dimensions. Mark the measurements on the corners.

Prepare for Dry Mounting Lay your artwork face down and cover it entirely with dry mounting tissue. Ensure you're working in a clean area to avoid any debris.

Secure with Heat Heat a tacking iron and press it onto the center of the artwork and dry mounting tissue to bond them together. Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion.

Trim Excess Tissue Carefully use scissors or a paper trimmer to remove any excess dry mounting tissue. Take your time to achieve clean, straight cuts.

Center the Artwork Position your artwork face up on the backing, ensuring equal spacing on all sides. Use pencil marks to indicate the centering points.

Secure Corners with the Tacking Iron Lift and secure two corners of the artwork to the backing using a heated tacking iron. Ensure the dry mounting tissue is flat on the backing before pressing.

Heat Press Your Print Place your artwork inside a heated press for 1-2 minutes. Ensure the press is set to around 180℉ (82.22℃) and monitor the time with a stopwatch. Adjust timing based on the type of paper used.

Flatten the Mounted Print Prevent warping by placing a heavy weight on the mounted print while it cools. Ensure the artwork is completely cooled before removing the weight.

Opt for Archival Materials Select archival backing and mat boards for original artwork to ensure preservation. Although more expensive, these acid-free materials are essential for valuable prints or original pieces.

Opt for Standard Materials for Less Valuable Art When matting inexpensive prints, standard backing and mat boards are suitable. While they may cause damage over time, it's a cost-effective option if preservation isn't a priority.

Enhance Small Pieces with Wide Borders Emphasize smaller artwork by framing them with wide-bordered mats. This creates a dramatic effect and directs attention to the center of the piece.

Keep Large Pieces Simple with Narrow Borders Let large artwork speak for itself by using thin borders. Elaborate pieces are best showcased with minimal distractions.

Opt for White Matting to Highlight Art Choose white matting to allow the artwork to stand out without distractions. White provides a clean and elegant backdrop, ideal for original pieces.

Choose Neutrals for Subtle Elegance Add character to your matting with neutral tones like gray, beige, or off-white. These colors offer diversity without overshadowing the artwork.

Choose Complementary Colors Select colors that enhance rather than compete with the artwork. Opt for hues already present in the piece to create harmony.

Frame Photographs with 3-Inch White Mats Showcase photographs elegantly by framing them with 3-inch white mats. This creates a clean and professional look for displaying your favorite images.