Mat board (also called matting) is one of the most important elements of custom framing. The right mat can transform your artwork, create visual breathing room, and add a professional, gallery-quality finish to any frame.
What Is Mat Board?
Mat board is a thick, firm paperboard that sits between your artwork and the frame glass. It has a window opening (called the mat opening) that displays your artwork while covering the edges.
Mat board serves several important purposes:
- Visual Enhancement: Creates space between the artwork and frame, preventing a cramped appearance and drawing the eye to your piece.
- Protection: Keeps your artwork from touching the glass, preventing moisture damage, sticking, and degradation over time.
- Flexibility: Allows you to use standard frame sizes for non-standard artwork by filling the gap between the art and frame.
- Professionalism: Gives your framed piece a polished, gallery-quality appearance.
Single Mat vs. Double Mat
Single Mat
A single mat uses one layer of mat board with a single window opening. This is the most common and economical option.
Best for: Simple, clean presentations; casual or everyday framing; budget-conscious projects; modern, minimalist aesthetics.
Double Mat (Layered Mat)
A double mat uses two layers of mat board, with the bottom mat visible as a thin reveal (usually 1/4") around the window opening.
Best for: Adding depth and dimension; creating color contrast; professional or formal presentations; valuable artwork or photographs; adding visual interest without overwhelming the art.
Popular double mat combinations: White top mat with colored reveal (navy, black, burgundy); Cream top mat with gold or brown reveal; Matching colors in different shades for subtle depth.
Choosing Mat Width
Mat width refers to the border between your artwork edge and the frame's inner edge. Choosing the right width creates balance and visual appeal.
Standard Mat Widths
Narrow (1.5" – 2"): Best for small frames (5×7, 8×10); modern, minimalist look; good for collages or gallery walls with multiple frames.
Medium (2.5" – 3"): Most versatile and popular choice; works for medium frames (11×14, 16×20); provides good visual breathing room; suitable for most artwork types.
Wide (3.5" – 4"+): Best for larger frames (20×24 and up); creates dramatic, gallery-quality presentation; ideal for valuable or special pieces; prevents large frames from overwhelming smaller artwork.
The Bottom Mat Rule
For a professional look, make the bottom mat border slightly wider than the top and sides (typically 1/4" to 1/2" wider). This creates visual balance and prevents the optical illusion of the artwork appearing to sink. For example, with a medium mat: Top and sides: 2.5"; Bottom: 3".
Mat Color Selection Basics
Choosing mat colors can feel overwhelming, but a few simple principles will guide you:
Neutral Colors (Most Versatile)
- White: Clean, classic, works with everything. The most popular choice.
- Cream/Off-White: Softer than white, warmer feel, excellent for vintage photos or traditional artwork.
- Black: Bold, modern, creates high contrast. Best for contemporary art or dramatic presentations.
- Gray: Sophisticated neutral that works well with black and white photography.
Colored Mats
Colored mats can enhance your artwork when chosen thoughtfully:
- Match a color in the artwork: Pull a secondary color from your piece for a coordinated look
- Complement the room: Choose mat colors that work with your decor
- Create contrast: Use opposing colors for bold, eye-catching results
- Stay subtle: When in doubt, choose muted or pastel versions of colors
Warning: Bright or bold mat colors can overpower artwork. Use vibrant colors sparingly and intentionally. For more in-depth guidance on mat colors, check out our blog.
Conservation vs. Standard Mat Board
Standard Mat Board: Most affordable option; suitable for most framing projects; good for prints, posters, and casual artwork.
Archival Mat Board: Premium, archival-quality material; prevents yellowing and deterioration; essential for valuable artwork, original pieces, or family photos; worth the investment for pieces you want to preserve long-term.
Special Mat Considerations
Multiple Openings: For collages, diplomas with photos, or series of related images, you can create custom mats with multiple openings. This creates a unified presentation for multiple pieces.
Specialty Shapes: Mat openings don't have to be rectangular. Oval, circular, and custom-shaped openings can add elegance and uniqueness to your framed pieces.
Fabric Mats: Fabric-covered mats (linen, silk, suede) add texture and luxury to special pieces like wedding invitations, certificates, or fine art.
Mat Board and Frame Style
Your mat board choice should harmonize with your frame selection:
- Ornate, traditional frames: Pair with neutral or cream mats, consider double mats
- Modern, minimalist frames: Simple single mats in white, black, or gray
- Rustic wood frames: Cream, tan, or natural-toned mats
- Metal frames: Clean white or black mats for contemporary look
Getting Started
When designing your custom frame:
- Start with a neutral mat (white, cream, or black)
- Decide if you want a single or double mat
- Choose a mat width based on your frame size
- Preview your design with our frame designer tool
- Adjust colors and dimensions until you're satisfied
For more guidance on creating beautiful framed artwork, explore our glazing guide.
The right mat board transforms good framing into great framing. Take your time to experiment with different options—you'll be amazed at the difference the perfect mat can make.