How to Choose the Perfect Frame and Mat for Your Artwork: A Step-by-Step Guide

A fresh piece of art is like a new friend – you want to show it off in the best light. The right frame and mat can turn a simple print into a room’s focal point, while the wrong choices can make it look lost. Below is my go‑to process, the one I use in my studio every day at Framed Artistry.

Why the Frame and Mat Matter

A frame does more than hold a picture; it tells a story about the piece. The mat gives breathing room, protects the art, and can even change the mood. Picking the right combo is a small design decision that has a big impact on how your walls feel.

Step 1 – Know Your Artwork

Size and Shape

Start by measuring the artwork’s exact dimensions. Write the width first, then the height (for example, 8 x 10 inches). If the piece is a non‑standard shape—like a circle or a long rectangle—note that too. The frame you choose must fit those numbers exactly.

Medium and Weight

A watercolor on paper needs a different backing than a canvas print. Light paper can be protected with a simple acid‑free mat and a glass pane. Heavy canvas often does fine without glass, but it still needs a sturdy frame to keep it flat.

Color Palette

Look at the dominant colors in the artwork. Do they lean warm (reds, oranges) or cool (blues, greens)? This will guide your frame color and mat tone later on.

Step 2 – Decide on the Style

Classic vs. Modern

If your home leans traditional, a wood frame with a subtle grain and a cream mat works well. For a sleek, contemporary space, a thin metal frame with a white or black mat can add a crisp edge.

The Room’s Personality

Walk around the room where the art will hang. Notice the existing furniture, wall color, and any other frames already on display. Your new frame should either blend in or deliberately stand out, depending on the look you want.

Step 3 – Choose the Mat

Width Matters

A good rule of thumb is to make the mat at least one‑third the size of the artwork’s smallest side. For an 8 x 10 piece, a 2‑inch mat on each side works nicely. Larger mats give a gallery feel; smaller mats keep the focus tight.

Color Choices

• Neutral mats (white, cream, gray) let the artwork speak for itself.
• Contrast mats (deep navy, charcoal, or a hue pulled from the picture) add drama.
• Double mats (two layers of different colors) create depth and can highlight a specific color in the art.

Material

Always pick acid‑free, archival‑grade mat board. It protects the piece from yellowing over time. I keep a stash of white, ivory, and light gray mats in my shop because they work with almost anything.

Step 4 – Pick the Frame

Material

• Wood: Warm, classic, easy to stain or paint. Works well with traditional interiors.
• Metal: Clean lines, modern vibe, lightweight. Good for large pieces where a heavy wood frame would be cumbersome.
• Mixed: Some frames combine wood and metal for a hybrid look.

Finish

Glossy finishes catch light; matte finishes absorb it. In a bright room, a matte frame can tone down glare. In a dim space, a glossy frame adds a little sparkle.

Color

Match the frame to either the dominant color in the artwork or to the surrounding décor. If you’re unsure, a medium‑tone wood (like walnut) or a simple black frame is a safe bet.

Step 5 – Test Before You Commit

Mock‑up on the Floor

Lay the artwork, mat board, and frame on the floor. Step back and look at the proportions. Does the mat feel too thick? Is the frame overpowering? Adjust as needed.

Tape Test on the Wall

Use painter’s tape to outline the final size on the wall. This gives you a sense of scale and helps you decide if the piece will dominate the space or sit comfortably among other items.

Step 6 – Assemble with Care

1. Cut the Mat – Use a sharp mat cutter or have a professional cut it. The opening should be 1/8 inch smaller than the artwork on each side to hide the edges.
2. Place the Artwork – Center it on the mat, then secure with acid‑free tape or photo corners.
3. Add Backing – For paper works, use acid‑free board. For canvas, a simple foam board works.
4. Insert Glass – If you need glass, choose UV‑protective, low‑iron glass to keep colors true.
5. Seal the Frame – Use framing points or clips to hold everything in place, then add the frame’s backing board and secure with the frame’s hardware.

Step 7 – Hang It Right

Use two picture‑hanging hooks placed a few inches apart, rather than a single nail. This spreads the weight and reduces the chance of the frame tilting. If the piece is heavy, consider a wall anchor.

My Personal Shortcut

When I first opened Framed Artistry, I spent hours debating frame colors for a client’s black‑and‑white photograph. I finally tried a simple gray mat with a thin black metal frame. The result was a clean, timeless look that the client loved. The lesson? Sometimes the simplest combination is the most effective.

Quick Checklist

• Measure artwork accurately
• Choose acid‑free mat and appropriate width
• Pick frame material and finish that match the room
• Test size on floor and wall
• Assemble with archival supplies
• Hang using two hooks for stability

With these steps, you’ll feel confident that your art will look its best, whether it’s a family photo, a vintage poster, or a modern print. Happy framing!