Art Presentation Tips: Cost-Effective Matting and Framing Techniques

Art framing and matting are art forms in themselves, guiding the viewer's focus and protecting the artwork while it’s on display. Creating a masterpiece doesn't stop at the final brushstroke – properly presenting your artwork is crucial to showcase your talent and enhance its overall visual appeal. At Cheap Joe's, we understand the true value of presenting your art. So in this post, we'll explore the best and most cost-effective ways to mat and frame your artwork, ensuring it shines without compromising your budget. From basic matting to using a floating frame, these tips will have your piece looking its best, wherever it’s on display.

How to Display Your Artwork

When you spend hours and hours perfecting a painting right down to the last detail, it stands to reason that you would want your art to look its best when it is finished. If you are selling your art, the presentation is as important as the artwork itself. However, matting and framing can get quite expensive. The extra cost can drive up the price of your work beyond what a client may be willing to invest. So what are the best and most cost-effective ways to present your artwork? Let’s look at the choices:

• Matting Only – You can choose a pre-cut mat, hire a professional framer, or cut your own mat. This is probably the most practical way to present your artwork. If using the mat-only option, it is advised to include a backing board for support and enclose it in an acetate envelope to protect it from dirt and moisture. This is especially a good idea when displaying your artwork at a show as it may be handled by several people.
  
  
• Framed Alone or with a Mat – Some artwork like oils or acrylics on canvas only require that you present them in a frame without glass. Others, like watercolors or pastels and other works on paper, are better protected when displayed in a frame with glass and also a mat. The mat protects the artwork from touching the glass and the glass protects it from dirt and moisture. This can be the most expensive way to display your artwork, however, it does show off your work in the most complete and best possible way in addition to protecting it long-term.

Matting: The Foundation of Presentation

Since the purpose of this post is to highlight the most cost-efficient ways to present your art, we’re going to assume that you’re going to do the work yourself instead of hiring someone. Let’s begin with matting. Matting is the foundation of framing and plays a pivotal role in drawing attention to your artwork. It's an affordable way to add sophistication and depth to your piece. Here's how to do it right:

• Choosing the Right Matboard: The matboard color and quality can significantly impact your artwork's presentation. Go for acid-free matboards to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time. Poor quality mats can damage your artwork long-term, although they can work well as a temporary solution. Choose neutral tones that complement your artwork, enhancing its colors and details. The best mat color choices simply disappear, allowing the focus to be your artwork. You can't go wrong with white, but choosing from the infinite number of white mats available can be tricky. Matching the white mat to the white of the background paper usually helps. The best way to choose a mat is to hold a corner sample up to your artwork in a well-lit area. Using the method, you will know immediately whether it's harmonious or discordant.
  

  

  
  
  
• Single vs. Double Matting: Single matting creates a clean and classic look, while double matting adds depth and dimension. Double-matting also allows an accent color to be used as an outline around your art. Experiment with different mat widths and colors to find the perfect combination that complements your art.
  

  

  
  
  
• Custom vs. Pre-Cut Mats: Custom-cut mats offer precision and uniqueness for artwork that's not a standard size, but they can be pricey. Pre-cut mats can be a budget-friendly option for standard sizes. At Cheap Joe's, you'll find a wide range of pre-cut mats in various sizes, allowing you to find a suitable fit for your artwork. If you're trying to keep costs down, you could think ahead and make your art in readily available pre-cut mat and frame sizes. If you exhibit often, you can save tons by investing in your own mat cutter and buying matboard in full 32" x 40" sheets. It takes practice to cut mat windows well and measuring skills are a must, but it's a skill anyone can learn!
  
  
• Creating Visual Balance: The width of the mat should be proportional to the size of your artwork. A general rule is to choose a mat that's 2-3 times wider than the frame molding. This ensures visual balance and prevents your art from feeling overwhelmed. However, you can get creative with the mat border and make it very large compared to a smaller work for extra impact. Keep in mind that the bigger the mat, the bigger the frame and glass must be, driving up the price of a frame; however, avoid making the mat border too slim just to save money because that does the opposite of enhancing your art.

Framing: Enhancing and Protecting Your Art

Your second option is to go the extra mile with art framing. Framing not only enhances the visual appeal of your artwork but also protects it from dust, moisture, and physical damage. Good framing can even make your art better than you thought it was! Here's how to frame your art without breaking the bank:

• Selecting the Right Frame: Choose a frame that complements your artwork and personal style. Wooden frames are versatile and timeless, while metal frames can offer a modern touch. Floating frames are another great option, as these suspend your artwork between two panes of glass or acrylic, creating a "floating" effect. Remember, the frame should enhance, not overpower, your art.
  

  

  
  

  

  
  
  
• Ready-Made vs. Custom Frames: Ready-made frames are budget-friendly and come in a variety of styles and sizes. If you're looking for an exact fit or a specific style, custom frames might be worth the investment. Or, use sectional frames to create a custom fit on a budget by selecting one pair for each dimension and assembling yourself. Cheap Joe's offers plenty of options for framing supplies to cater to your needs.
  
  
  
• Conservation Glass or Acrylic: For valuable or sentimental artworks, consider using conservation glass or acrylic. These materials protect your art from harmful UV rays while minimizing glare. However, if you're on a tight budget, regular glass or acrylic is still a viable option.
  
  
• Assembling Your Frame: Assembling a frame can be a DIY project with rewarding results. Work on a dust-dree surface that's clean and well-lit. Secure your artwork to the mat backing board, centered in the mat window, using acid-free tape or corner mounts. Add clean glass or acrylic on top of the mat to make a backing-mat-glass "sandwich." Insert the "sandwich" into the frame. Make sure everything is aligned and free from dust or fingerprints before securing the backing in place with framing points or the hardware provided with your frame. (To be honest, this is the hardest part of framing!) Sealing the back with paper is recommended to prevent dust from getting in over time. Add picture hanging wire and you're done!

For a visual demonstration of the Perfect Show Mat System, watch the video below.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Presenting Your Art

Presenting your artwork doesn't have to drain your wallet. There are plenty of unique ways to use art frames, especially if you aren’t prepping for a professional presentation. Here are some cost-effective tips to achieve stunning results without compromising quality:

• DIY Framing Kits: There are many DIY framing kits out there that include everything you need – matboard, frame, and assembly materials. These kits are a budget-friendly and convenient solution for beginners and experienced artists alike.
  
  
• Repurposing Frames: Don't overlook the potential of repurposing frames from thrift stores, garage sales, or your own collection. A fresh coat of paint can transform an old frame into a stylish and unique presentation for your art.
  
  
• Explore Minimalist Options: A minimalist approach to framing, such as clip frames, can create an elegant and contemporary look. This visually light and frame-less option secures the backing-mat-glass "sandwich" with unobtrusive clips. This option is often more budget-friendly while still maintaining a polished appearance. You can also choose a gallery-wrap deep profile canvas or wood panel with neatly finished edges as your painting substrate. Simply paint the sides before displaying. Works on paper can also be mounted to these blank canvas or wood panels without frames.
  
  
  

  

  
  

  

  
  
  

Art Framing and Matting: Innovative Presentation Within Your Budget

Matting and framing are essential aspects of presenting your artwork that can greatly impact how your piece is perceived. With the right techniques and budget-friendly options, you can enhance the beauty of your artwork without overspending. Here at Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff, we’re proud to be your partner in achieving professional and affordable presentation solutions. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, our wide range of matting and framing materials, including DIY framing kits like Joe Miller’s Perfect Show Pre-Cut Mat System, ensures that your art receives the attention it deserves without straining your budget.

For more tips on framing, preserving, and displaying your works of art, we recommend our 2 Minute Art Tips video series. Learn more about Dust Covers and Finesse in Framing Wire with our helpful videos on our YouTube channel.