-  Matting is a key element in your framing package and serves as more than just creating airspace between the face of the artwork and the glass.

 -  Matting serves as a complementing design of beauty that enhances the artwork and helps to eliminate the possibility of condensation which causes the artwork to stick to glass.

 -  Multiple mats will add more depth, color and give the framed artwork a three dimensional look.  

 -  Matting also enhances the artwork itself by bringing the colors within it to life.

The Frame

The picture frame serves multiple purposes, both aesthetically and functionally. 

 -  The picture frame lends strength to the artwork and it adds structure that allows the artwork to be protected from the environment.

 -  Picture frame moulding comes in a multitude of colors (natural woods, oak, walnut, cherry and metal), profiles, styles, textures and sizes.

 -  Picture frame moulding can be used as an individual frame or a combination frame by stacking two or more frames together to create a style and look of its own.

Glazing Options

 -  Glass or acrylic is an important element of the picture framing package, as it is the barrier that will protect the visible part of your artwork.

 -  All glass or acrylic are not all the same therefore, careful consideration must be taken to make sure the correct glazing is used to protect your artwork:

 (1). Conservation Clear which blocks 99% of harmful UV rays and protect your artwork from fading.

 (2). Conservation Reflection Control is a single-sided, etched, non-glare glass with UV blocking properties and protects artwork from irreversible UV damage.

 (3). Museum Glass is an anti-reflective technology coupled with UV blocking properties.  No special handling procedures or cleaners are needed, and it is the highest quality picture framing glass available.

 
(4). Each of the above mentioned glazing options comes in acrylic sheets which is best for shipping large artwork.  

 -  100% cotton rag mats and archival mats are a blend of paper and rag with the harmful acids, lignin, and other impurities removed and will ensure you that your artwork will last for generations. (Recommended)

 Framing Tips

 -  Surround your treasures with the best quality picture framing materials that will last.

 -  Do not frame your artwork to match furniture.

 
 -  Be careful not to let the matting and moulding overpower the artwork by drawing too much attention to itself and not the artwork.

 
 -  Use a framing package to enhance the artwork as a whole.

Glazing Tips

 -  Artwork on paper should always be framed under glass.

 
 -  Any artwork that receives matting should always be glazed. Just as changes in humidity can cause buckling and damage to artwork on paper, the same damage can be caused to that carefully chosen mat design if not protected with glazing.

 
 -  The change in humidity can cause exposed paper to buckle and warp.

 
 -  Oil paintings on canvas are generally not glazed, however if glazed leave  the back of the artwork open to breath. 

 
 -  Needle art, such as cross stitch and crewel work, often are not glazed. However, this is usually a personal preference. Most framers will advise the use of glass, which will protect these often very labor-intensive works of art from staining and other damage.