Selecting a mat appropriate for your art piece, is as
important as the frame you select.  A mat can make a
piece "speak" to you or it can make it blend in to the wall
like a shy little wall flower.  Any art piece worth the invest-
ment of custom framing, is worthy of careful mat selection.
   No longer are mats simple squares, circles, ovals or
rectangles.  Mats can be cut to fit  an object or art piece in
a way that will truly emphasize its beauty.  With today's
technology entering the framing industry, automated mat
cutters allow us to cut almost any shape you choose with
great precision.
   Matting materials are not restricted to solid colors.  Mats
can be customized to fit the look most appropriate for your artwork.  At Albany Frameworks, we can create hand-painted mat designs, inlay hand-painted Italian marbled papers, draw French lines or make special decorative mat cuts.  The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

How Do You Select a Mat?

   Mat material and shape selections should be made based upon the color, material and shape that would best enhance the framed piece.  Another important factor to be taken into consideration is the value or expected value of the piece you are framing.
   Regular paper mats are the most economical and the common choice for decorator art that is likely to change with your taste and fashion trends.  However, art that  is expected to hold its value or appreciate in value, is normally framed with matboard made from cotton or linen fibers.  Natural fiber mats remain white in the core (the beveled edge you see) and do not damage the artwork over time. 

What Size Should a Mat Be?

   Mat size is a function of proportion and proportion is something you see, not something you measure.  There are some generalizations, however;  the mat should not be the same width as the frame, the mat should not be the same width as the pictures width or length.  A large figure that dominates the image area requires a larger mat than a smaller image with space within the composition or design.  A mat that's too big, looks better than one that's too small.   Mats with wide inside lips or decorated with French lines or marbled paper, tend to be larger than "plain" mats.  The larger the picture, the wider the mat.   Multiple mats cut to varying widths may also be used to compliment a framed piece.

Are There Many Color Choices in Mats?

   There are literally thousands of color choices available in matboard.  At Albany Frameworks, we shop diligently to be able to provide our clientele a variety of colors whether they are colors that have been around forever or newly developed colors in keeping with the latest fashion trends.  Because we have many sources for these materials, you should always be able to find the mat colors that are perfect for your artwork.

How Much Should a Mat Cost?

  As with a frame,  mat costs will vary based upon the size and the type matboard used.  Each "layer" of mat costs, i.e. a double mat costs twice that of a single mat.  Additionally, intricate cuts add to the price as does hand-painting or hand- decorating.

   Now, are you thoroughly confused?  Please don't be confused or intimidated at the prospect of having to make these choices--that's what we're here for.  Our staff of expert framers is dedicated to helping you select the frame and mat material that is most appropriate for your artwork.  We will work with you in helping you select materials that will not only enhance your piece, but will fit your decor and budget.  If you have any questions, fill out our Information Request Form or give us a call at (912) 889-1423.  We look forward to working with you.