Unlock Your Walls: The Ultimate Guide To Custom Mat Boards

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Post on Mar 16, 2025

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Unlock Your Walls: The Ultimate Guide to Custom Mat Boards

Custom mat boards are more than just a frame's inner lining; they're a crucial element in showcasing artwork, photographs, and cherished memories. They protect your prized possessions, enhance their aesthetic appeal, and even elevate the overall presentation. This ultimate guide delves into everything you need to know about custom mat boards, from understanding the options available to choosing the perfect fit for your piece.

What are Custom Mat Boards?

Custom mat boards are specifically cut and designed pieces of archival-quality board used to surround and protect artwork or photographs before framing. Unlike pre-cut mats found in mass-market stores, custom mats are tailored to the exact dimensions of your piece, offering a precise and professional finish. They provide a crucial buffer between the artwork and the glass or acrylic of the frame, preventing damage from abrasion, moisture, and UV light.

Why Choose Custom Mat Boards?

The benefits of opting for custom mat boards extend far beyond simple protection.

• Enhanced Presentation: A well-chosen mat board can dramatically improve the visual impact of your artwork. The color and style of the mat can complement the piece, creating a harmonious and visually stunning display.
• Professional Finish: Custom mats offer a clean, precise edge, creating a far more professional look than pre-cut options. This attention to detail elevates the overall quality and sophistication of the presentation.
• Protection: Archival-quality mat boards are acid-free and lignin-free, meaning they won't damage your artwork over time. This is especially crucial for valuable or sentimental pieces.
• Versatility: Custom mats are available in a wide range of colors, widths, and styles, allowing you to perfectly match the mat to your artwork and decor.

What Types of Mat Boards are Available?

Understanding the different types of mat boards available is essential to making the right choice.

• Archival-Quality Mat Boards: These are acid-free and lignin-free, preventing damage to your artwork. They're the preferred choice for preserving valuable pieces.
• Color Options: Mat boards come in a vast array of colors, from classic whites and creams to vibrant hues. The choice of color significantly influences the overall aesthetic.
• Textures: Some mat boards feature subtle textures, adding depth and visual interest.
• Thickness: The thickness of the mat board influences the overall framing style. Thicker mats create a more substantial and luxurious look.
• Window Matting: This popular style features an opening cut into the mat board, creating a "window" to display the artwork. The size and placement of this window are customizable. This is ideal for emphasizing specific aspects of a piece.
• Double Matting: This technique involves layering two mats, often with contrasting colors or textures, to create a more sophisticated and visually interesting presentation.

Choosing the Right Mat Board for Your Artwork

Selecting the perfect mat board involves careful consideration of several factors.

• Artwork: The color, style, and subject matter of your artwork will significantly influence your mat board choice. A brightly colored piece might look stunning with a neutral mat, while a muted piece might benefit from a bolder color.
• Frame: The frame's style and color should complement the mat board, creating a cohesive and harmonious presentation.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best mat board is the one you find most aesthetically pleasing.

How to Measure for Custom Mat Boards

Accurate measurements are critical when ordering custom mat boards. Measure your artwork's dimensions carefully, taking note of the width and height. Consider the desired mat width around your artwork for a visually appealing result. Most framing shops offer assistance with measuring and mat selection.

Where Can I Get Custom Mat Boards?

Many framers offer custom matting services, and it's often best to source mats from the same professional who will be framing your artwork to ensure a seamless process.

What's the Difference Between Museum Glass and Regular Glass?

This is a common concern. Museum glass, also known as UV glass, offers superior protection against harmful UV rays, preventing fading and discoloration of your artwork. Regular glass provides some protection, but museum glass is the ideal choice for valuable or light-sensitive pieces.

How Much Does Custom Matting Cost?

The cost of custom matting varies based on the size, type, and number of mats. It's best to contact a local framing shop for a quote.

How to Care for Your Matted Artwork

Proper care ensures your artwork remains in pristine condition for years to come. Avoid exposing your framed artwork to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush.

By understanding the nuances of custom mat boards, you can enhance the presentation of your cherished artwork and ensure its preservation for generations to come. Investing in custom matting is an investment in protecting and showcasing your most treasured pieces.