Ever wondered how to make your favorite photos or art prints truly stand out? The secret often lies in choosing the perfect custom mat board to frame them. A well-selected mat not only protects your cherished pieces but also elevates their visual appeal, turning simple pictures into eye-catching displays.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting, sizing, and customizing mat boards, along with practical tips to create professional-looking framed artwork you’ll be proud to hang.
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How to Get Custom Mat Boards for Framing Pictures
Framing your favorite photos, artwork, or memorabilia can transform a room and make your memories shine. A key ingredient in a professional-looking frame is the mat board. Custom mat boards let you tailor the look and feel to perfectly fit your style, your pieces, and your unique needs. In this article, you’ll learn exactly what custom mat boards are, how to get them, and everything you need to make your framing project a success.
What Are Custom Mat Boards?
Custom mat boards are precisely cut pieces of matting designed to fit your picture and frame size. They sit between your artwork and the frame’s glass, creating a border that enhances the piece, prevents the art from touching the glass, and adds a touch of elegance.
You can choose mat boards in a variety of colors, cuts, thicknesses, and materials to match your personal taste or decor. Whether it’s for a prized photograph, a diploma, a collage, or a painting, custom mat boards let your picture take center stage.
Why Use Custom Mat Boards?
Custom mat boards aren’t just about looks. They offer several practical and aesthetic benefits:
- Protect artwork from sticking to glass
- Highlight and accentuate the art or photo
- Allow for creative, multi-opening designs (collages)
- Accommodate unusual sizes or shapes
- Increase the perceived value of your framed piece
- Enhance colors and contrast of your art
Using a mat board can even help preserve the piece over time, particularly if you use acid-free or archival-quality mats.
Step-By-Step: How to Get Custom Mat Boards
Ready to elevate your framing project? Here’s a simple guide to getting custom mats:
1. Measure Your Artwork and Frame
Before you order or cut anything, precise measurement is key.
- Artwork Size: This is the actual size of your photo or art.
- Frame Size: This is the internal measurement of your chosen frame.
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Desired Border Width: How wide do you want the mat border to appear around your image? Common widths are 1.5 to 3 inches.
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Tip:* Double-check your measurements to avoid costly mistakes.
2. Choose Your Mat Board Style and Color
Mat boards come in endless color options, textures, and thicknesses. Popular choices include:
- Standard White or Black Mats: Timeless and versatile
- Colored Mats: To complement specific hues in your artwork or décor
- Textured or Linen Mats: For a richer, tactile feel
- Multi-Opening/Collage Mats: For displaying several photos in one frame
You can even match school colors for diplomas or pick bold shades for art pieces.
3. Select Your Material and Core Type
There are a few key types of mat boards, each with their special uses:
- Paper Mat Board: Affordable, great for non-archival work
- Conservation/Acid-Free Mat Board: Protects photos and art from yellowing and damage over time
- Museum Quality Board: Highest level of protection, used for precious art and heirlooms
- Black/White Core or Colored Core: Edge color of the mat opening for a designer look
When in doubt, choose acid-free for keeping items safe in the long run.
4. Decide on the Opening (Window) Size
The window opening is the hole in the mat board that reveals your artwork. Usually, you want the window to be slightly smaller than your art, so the edges of the picture are held in place and nothing falls through.
- Recommended: Make the window 1/4 inch smaller on each side than the artwork.
5. Order or Create Your Custom Mat Board
You have two main options:
1. Order Online
Many online retailers let you design your ideal mat board with easy customization tools.
What you can usually customize:
– Overall mat size (match your frame)
– Opening size(s) and position(s)
– Number of windows (single or collage)
– Mat and core color
– Thickness
Many sites display a digital preview as you design.
2. Buy Locally or DIY
Some craft and framing stores offer cutting services while you wait. If you’re handy, you can also buy mat board sheets and cut your own with a precision mat cutter. This route is great for creative projects or for saving money on multiple frames, but it requires careful measuring and the right tools.
Key Benefits of Using Custom Mat Boards
Here’s why custom mat boards make your framed pieces stand out:
- Bespoke Fit: Perfectly matches unusual or non-standard art and frame sizes.
- Design Flexibility: Choose from a rainbow of colors, double mats, v-grooves, and bevels.
- Collage Possibilities: Arrange multiple photos or elements in a single frame with custom openings.
- Protection: Acid-free or conservation mats safeguard your art for decades.
- Presentation: Instantly gives your display a professional gallery look.
Challenges and Considerations
While custom matting is rewarding, here are possible hurdles:
- Accurate Measurements Are Essential: One wrong number can mean a poor fit or costly reordering.
- Shipping Costs & Time: Since mats are fragile and large, shipping can be pricey and take a few days—plan ahead if you have a gift or event deadline.
- Price Factors: Custom colors, thickness, and special shapes can all add to cost.
- DIY Learning Curve: Cutting your own mats requires careful setup, patience, and practice.
Practical Tips for Ordering Custom Mat Boards
To make your custom matting journey smooth, keep these tips in mind:
- Double-Check Measurements: Use a ruler and measure twice (or thrice).
- Preview Designs: If shopping online, use preview tools to see how your choices look together.
- Match the Mat to Your Space: Consider wall color, frame style, and the room’s mood.
- Go Neutral for Versatility: White and black mats are timeless and work with most décor.
- Ask About Bulk Discounts: If framing multiple pieces, many suppliers offer deals.
- Choose Archival When in Doubt: It’s worth the slight extra cost for peace of mind.
- Consider Non-glare or UV-protection Glass: For sunlit rooms or prized art, combine with custom mats for the best protection.
Cost-Saving Strategies
Custom isn’t always expensive. Here are ways to save:
- Order Standard Sizes If Possible: Custom cuts cost more, but if your art fits a standard frame size, you can save by only customizing the window opening.
- Buy Multipacks: Great for home galleries or gifts—often comes with a discount.
- Combine Orders To Save on Shipping: Shipping a few mats together is cheaper than paying for each separately.
- DIY Cutting for Bulk Projects: Invest in a mat cutter for long-term savings on multiple frames.
- Check for Promotions: Many online shops have seasonal sales or new customer discounts.
- In-Store Pickup: If available near you, picking up can eliminate shipping fees and risk of damage.
Best Practices for Shipping and Receiving Custom Mats
When ordering online, especially for large or multiple mats:
- Choose Insured Shipping: Mats can bend and crease easily; insured shipping covers damage.
- Inspect Immediately: Open the package as soon as it arrives. Report any issues right away—most companies want you to be happy!
- Store Mats Flat: Keep your mats lying flat until you’re ready to frame, avoiding bends or warps.
Bringing It All Together: Final Thoughts
Custom mat boards provide endless design options and superior protection for your framed treasures. With the right measurements, material, and design, you can highlight your art, fit any frame size, and add a personalized touch to any space.
Whether you order online or visit a local shop, the key to success is careful planning, knowing your options, and aiming for both aesthetic beauty and practical protection. Happy framing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between single and double mat boards?
A single mat board uses one layer around your artwork. A double mat adds a second layer (usually of a contrasting color) beneath the top layer, creating a decorative border effect that adds depth and visual interest.
How do I know if I need an acid-free or archival mat board?
If your art, photograph, or document is valuable or sentimental, choose acid-free or archival mats. They prevent yellowing and deterioration over time. For less important work or temporary displays, standard mats may be fine.
Can I create a mat board with multiple openings for a collage?
Absolutely! Custom mat board suppliers can cut mats with several windows of different sizes and shapes. This is perfect for displaying a group of related photos, such as a wedding or family collage.
Do I need special tools to cut my own mat board?
Yes, you’ll need a precision mat cutter, a sharp blade, cutting surface, and a ruler. DIY cutting is doable but requires a steady hand and careful measurements to achieve professional results.
How should I clean my mat board before framing?
Clean mats gently with a soft, lint-free cloth or a can of compressed air. Avoid touching the front with oily fingers, and never use water or cleaning fluids—they can stain or warp the mat.
With these guidelines and tips, you’re now ready to select and enjoy the perfect custom mat boards for your next framing project!