Since launching my print collection I’ve had a number of questions about mats and framing. I’m hesitant to give definitive answers because framing is such a personal choice with a number of options but to help I thought I’d share some thoughts on different styles. Hopefully, these help you on your way to creating the ideal presentation for your print that works best in your space!
Is a mat important to framing? I think it is. The additional border a mat creates gives a print ‘room to breathe’ by creating space between the image and the frame. It also increases the overall presentation size to give a print a more dramatic impact and helps smaller pieces take up the space they deserve. Beyond the aesthetics, a mat separates the image from the glazing, keeps a print perfectly flat, and when you have your heart set on a frame that doesn’t quite conform to the dimensions of your print, a custom cut mat can help you bridge the difference.
As a rule, I suggest that people keep their mats simple and white. Double mats might be nice for some pieces of art but there is a risk of distracting from the print, they can make it more formal and of course, they add extra cost. Something simple and white is the best way to ensure your print will look just as fresh in 20 years as it does today.
The only absolute I have when it comes to framing my prints is to avoid any kind of permanent mounting (e.g. dry mounting) or adhesive. Good framing plays an essential role in the preservation of a print and these museum-quality prints created with archival inks are intended to last a lifetime!
*avoid hanging any art in direct / afternoon sunlight if not protected by any UV coated glass
The choice of framing style is a matter of personal taste, and there is no one right way to do it. Your framer can help you visualize your options and create a presentation that will highlight the beauty of the art on your walls!
