Choosing best frame matting for your picture frame

As a picture framer at Modern Memory Design, a frame shop located in New Jersey, I've had the opportunity to work with countless customers and help them find the perfect frame for their cherished memories. One aspect of picture framing that often gets overlooked, but can greatly enhance the overall look of a framed item, is matting.

Matting is the decorative paper or fabric border that sits between the image and the frame. It not only protects the image from dust and damage but also adds an extra layer of elegance and style to the overall look of the framed item.

Choosing the best frame matting for your picture frame can make all the difference in the final result. Matting serves not only as a protective layer for your artwork but also as an aesthetic element that can either complement or detract from your image. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best matting for your picture frame:

1. Color: The color of the matting should complement the colors in your image. If your image has cool-toned blues and greens, you might want to consider a blue or green matting. If your image has warm-toned yellows and reds, you might want to consider a cream or light brown matting.

2. Width: The width of the matting border can affect the overall look of the framed item. A wider border can make a small image appear larger, while a narrower border can create a more minimalist look. Consider the size of the image and the style you want to achieve when choosing the width of your matting.

   

3. Texture: Matting can come in a variety of textures, from smooth to textured. Consider the style of your image and the overall look you want to achieve when choosing the texture of your matting.

4. Material: Matting is available in a variety of materials, including paper, fabric, and foam core. Each material has its own unique properties and benefits, so consider the type of image you have and the level of protection you want to provide when choosing your matting material.

5. Double Matting: Double matting, or using two layers of matting, can create a more interesting and dynamic look. Consider using a different color for each layer to create contrast and bring out the details in your image.

In conclusion, the best frame matting for your picture frame will depend on a variety of factors, including color, width, texture, material, and the overall style you want to achieve. By considering these factors and taking advantage of the many matting options available, you can create a beautiful and personalized framed item that will be treasured for years to come.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing matting is color. The matting color should complement the color palette of the image, not overpower it. For example, if the image has a lot of earthy tones, a warm-toned matting color like cream or light brown would be a good choice. On the other hand, if the image has a lot of cool-toned blues or greens, a cool-toned matting color like gray or blue would be a better choice.

Another important aspect of matting is the size of the matting border. A wider matting border can make a small image appear larger, while a narrower border can create a more minimalist look. It's important to find the right balance between the size of the matting border and the size of the image, so that the overall look of the framed item is harmonious.

At Modern Memory Design, we offer a wide variety of matting options, from traditional white and cream to more unique colors and patterns. We also offer double matting, which is two matting layers of different colors, to create a more interesting and dynamic look.

In conclusion, matting is an important aspect of picture framing that can greatly enhance the overall look of a framed item. By considering color and size, and taking advantage of the many matting options available, you can create a beautiful and personalized framed item that will be treasured for years to come.