Matting Matters: The Most Underrated Design Decision in Framing
When most people think about framing, they focus on the frame itself—the color, the style, the finish.
But the real design work often happens just inside the frame.
Matting is one of the most overlooked parts of framing, and it has a huge impact on how artwork looks on the wall. Done well, it gives a piece presence, balance, and clarity. Done poorly, it can make even great art feel off.
What Matting Actually Does
At its core, matting creates space between the artwork and the frame.
That space does a few important things:
- It gives the eye room to focus on the art
- It separates the artwork from the frame visually
- It helps the piece feel more intentional and complete
Without matting, many pieces can feel cramped or unfinished—especially works on paper like prints, photography, and watercolor.
Width Changes Everything
One of the biggest design decisions is how wide the mat should be.
Narrow mats feel more casual and contemporary, but can sometimes make a piece feel visually tight
Wide mats create a more elevated, gallery-style look. They give artwork breathing room and make it feel more important.
A common mistake is going too small. When in doubt, a slightly wider mat usually looks more intentional and refined.
Color Isn’t Just White
White and off-white mats are popular for a reason—they’re clean and versatile.
But color can be used in a more subtle way than people expect.
- Pull a muted tone from the artwork for a cohesive look
- Use a soft neutral to warm up cooler pieces
- Add a second mat (a “double mat”) to introduce a thin line of color
The goal isn’t to overpower the art. It’s to support it.
Where Custom Matting Really Shines
This is where framing moves from standard to truly custom.
Small details in the mat can add depth, craftsmanship, and a level of finish that you just don’t see in off-the-shelf framing.
- 8-ply mats – thicker, more substantial, and noticeably more architectural than standard mats
- French lines (ink lines) – fine, hand-drawn lines that add a tailored, traditional detail
- V-grooves – subtle cut lines that create structure and visual layering without adding another mat
- Painted bevels – a touch of color or metallic along the cut edge that can quietly elevate the entire piece
- Bottom-weighted mats (a slightly wider bottom mat margin) – subtly anchors the artwork and corrects visual balance, making the piece feel more stable, intentional, and refined to the eye
- Adding a fillet (a thin decorative molding inside the mat opening) – introduces depth and a refined inner border, giving the piece a more finished, layered, and custom look
None of these elements are loud. They’re refined details—but they’re exactly what makes a piece feel finished instead of generic.
Double Mats and Layering
Layering mats adds depth and control.
That inner reveal—sometimes just a fraction of an inch—can:
- Tie in a secondary color from the artwork
- Create contrast and definition
- Add a sense of craftsmanship and intention
It’s a small move, but it changes how the whole piece reads.
It’s Not Just Design—It’s Protection
Matting also plays a critical role in preserving artwork.
- It keeps the artwork from touching the glass
- It reduces the risk of moisture damage and sticking
- Archival, acid-free mats help prevent yellowing and deterioration over time
This is especially important for original works on paper, photography, and anything with long-term value.
The Bottom Line
Matting may not be the first thing you notice—but it’s often the reason a piece feels “right.”
It controls spacing, balance, and how the artwork sits within the frame. It can make a small piece feel substantial, add quiet detail, or elevate a piece into something that feels complete.
It’s not just a border. It’s part of the design.
Need Help Getting It Right?
At Eye Candy Gallery & Framing, we guide clients through these decisions every day—adjusting mat width, tone, and custom details until the piece feels finished and works in the space it’s going into.
If you’ve got something you’re thinking about framing, bring it in. We’ll show you how much of a difference the right mat can make.
