How to Mat Pictures and Documents for Display
Matting a picture or document is basically when you surround it with a frame of heavy paper in a complementary color, in order to make it fit inside a larger frame. When done correctly, this can really add to the presentation of the picture or document.
The first thing you will want to do is to choose your frame, as that will have some bearing on the type of matting you choose. Unless you plan on cropping your photograph, be sure to choose a frame that is larger than your picture, so that you have room to show off the matting. If you are framing a document such as a diploma, there are lots of great university diploma frames to choose from, some of which will not require matting.
Once you have found a frame you like, choose your matting. The type of matting will depend on the frame and the image, as you want something that will complement both and tie everything together. A really high-end frame and an art print or fine photograph will require a nicer looking matting, for instance a finer paper or perhaps even ribbon or lace. On the other hand, a regular photograph and an average frame could be paired with the “standard” pre-cut mattings that you often find at hobby stores.
The matting should both complement and contrast. For example, you will want to choose a color that you want to highlight in the photograph or diploma. For my diploma, I chose a matting that was in one of my school’s colors, and therefore appeared in the crest on the diploma. Additionally, you can use texture to contrast: For instance, a textured matting is popular because it often adds interest to the picture.
Finally, be sure that the matting and whatever backing paper you choose is acid-free. This is important because papers with acid in them will cause the photo or document to turn brown over time. Also, if you write on the back of the photo, do it with a soft-tipped pen that is archival quality. Regular ball-point pen ink will burn through into the photograph over time, discoloring whatever is on the reverse side.
Comments
Leave a Reply