Physically, the purpose of matting is to protect the artwork. Changes of temperature and humidity may cause moisture to condense on the inside of the glass and damage the artwork. By creating a small air pocket between the picture and the glass, the matting prevents this condensation from settling on the paper and eventually growing mold.

Esthetically, its function is to support the picture by isolating it from its surroundings, providing a neutral space for the eye between the art and frame.

There are no steadfast rules for the proportions of mat, width of the margin or placement of the window.
There are, however, a few rules dedicated by common sense, general practice and basic rules of design:

1- The width of a mat may vary according to the size of the picture and the effect you want to achieve. It should however, be wide enough to serve its esthetic purpose.

2- There should be a marked difference between the width of the mat and frame. It stands to reason that 2 inches of matting between a picture and a 1-1/2 or 2-inch wide frame will look cramped and ungraceful. Inside a 3-inche frame, it no fulfills its function and becomes a liner.

3-Because of an optical illusion that tends to make the bottom of a mat appear narrower if the window is centered, a wider bottom margin is sometimes used- referred to as a drop bottom.

While a single mat is all that is needed to provide the protective and esthetic properties; double and triple mats are used to accent certain colors or hues and brings depth to the image. In selecting matting for a piece of artwork you want to create an overall visual continuity between the artwork and the framing materials.

Fabric and Texture mats – Layering fabrics and texture mats can add depth and drama to any framing project – our vast selection of colors, textures and fabrics can complement the finest artwork.

As can be seen on the 2 identical prints on this page that different mat colors can be used to give a completely different look. Our sales assocciates are on hand and trained to give your art that special look.