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How to Frame Art: Mats, Frames & Finishes Explained
Framing can completely transform how artwork looks in your home — but most people find it confusing, even intimidating. With so many options (materials, mats, glazing, colors, finishes), how do you know what will actually make your artwork look better, not busier?
Here’s the good news:
Framing doesn’t have to be complicated.
A few simple principles will help you choose a frame that elevates your art, protects it long-term, and fits beautifully into your space.
This guide breaks everything down in clear, everyday language so you can frame artwork confidently — whether it’s an original painting, a print, or a meaningful photograph.
1.) Why Framing Matters More Than Most People Think
A frame isn’t just a border — it’s part of the artwork’s visual presence.
A great frame can:
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make colors appear richer
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give the artwork more breathing room
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help it stand out from the wall
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tie the piece into the style of your room
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make an inexpensive print look gallery-worthy
A poor frame can:
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make the artwork look dull
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visually shrink the piece
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clash with your décor
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distract from the image itself
Rule of thumb:
If you notice the frame before the art, the frame is doing too much.
The right frame should feel like it belongs — quietly supporting the artwork, not competing with it.
2.) How to Choose the Right Frame Style
Frames come in endless variations, but most fall into a few categories. Here’s how to choose one with confidence.
A. Match the frame to the mood, not the colors
A common mistake is trying to match the frame to a color inside the artwork.
Instead, match it to the style and tone of the piece.
Examples:
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Soft, earthy artwork → natural wood frames
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Bold modern artwork → simple black, white, or metal frames
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Minimalist abstracts → thin floating frames or clean white frames
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Vintage-style prints → warm wood or ornate frames
B. Pay attention to frame thickness
Frame thickness changes how “important” the artwork appears.
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Thin frame = modern, understated, airy
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Medium frame = flexible, balanced, safe for most rooms
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Thick frame = bold, dramatic, high contrast
Rule of thumb:
Large pieces can handle thicker frames; small pieces usually look better with thin or medium frames.
C. Choose the frame material based on your room style
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Natural wood → warm, timeless, organic
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Black or white frames → modern, clean, versatile
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Metallic frames → contemporary, minimal, slightly formal
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Ornate frames → traditional, classical, vintage
Your room doesn’t need matching frames everywhere — just keep them within the same general family for cohesion.
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3.) Mats: What They Do and When You Should Use One
A mat (the border between the artwork and the frame) has two main purposes:
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It gives the art breathing room
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It prevents the artwork from touching the glass
Mats work best when:
✔ You want a lighter, more open feeling
✔ The artwork has lots of detail
✔ The piece is small and needs more visual presence
✔ You’re framing illustrations, photos, or prints with white backgrounds
When NOT to use a mat:
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Very large pieces
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When the art already has white space
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Bold, modern abstracts (mats soften the look; sometimes you want edge-to-edge impact)
Mat Color Tips:
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White/off-white → clean and classic
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Black → bold, high contrast
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Colored mats → rarely necessary; best used sparingly
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Double mats → use cautiously; can look dated if overdone
Rule of thumb:
If you’re unsure, choose a simple white mat. It works 95% of the time.
4.) Glass vs Acrylic (Glazing): What Actually Matters
Glazing protects the artwork, but the type you choose affects weight, reflections, and price.
Glass:
✔ Scratch-resistant
✔ Elegant, traditional feel
✖ Heavier
✖ Can shatter
✖ More reflective
Acrylic (Plexi):
✔ Lightweight
✔ Shatter-resistant
✔ Great for large pieces
✖ Can scratch if handled roughly
✖ Sometimes slightly less clear (depending on grade)
Non-glare / UV-Protective Options:
If the artwork is in direct light, invest in glazing with UV protection.
It dramatically extends the life of prints and watercolors.
Framing myth to ignore:
“You must have museum glass for everything.”
Not true. Use it only for pieces with sentimental or financial value.
5.) Custom Framing vs Ready-Made Frames
Both options have their place.
Ready-Made Frames: Best For
✔ Standard-size prints
✔ Budget-friendly framing
✔ Rooms where durability matters (kids’ rooms, hallways)
✔ Quick decorating
What to watch for:
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Lower-quality materials
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Warping in cheap frames
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Limited mat options
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Custom Framing: Best For:
✔ Originals
✔ Odd sizes
✔ High-quality prints
✔ When you want professional materials
✔ When the frame is part of the design
Benefits:
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Exact fit
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Better mats and glazing
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Long-term preservation
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Greater style flexibility
Downside:
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Cost (often $100-$300+ depending on size)
6.) Quick Framing Rules for Each Room
Living Room
Choose frames that complement your furniture finishes.
Large pieces look great in floating frames or medium-thick wood frames.
Bedroom
Soft woods, warm tones, or thin black frames help keep the mood calm.
Hallways
Go simple — continuity matters more than individual frame style.
Office
Clean black, white, or metal frames look professional and modern.
Entryway
Stronger frames can make a big impact in a small space.
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7.) A Final Thought: The Best Frame Is the One You Stop Noticing
A frame isn’t just a border — it’s part of the artwork’s visual presence.
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A great frame doesn’t steal the spotlight — it completes the artwork.
It makes the piece look intentional, elevated, and at home in your space.
If the framing feels effortless, you’ve chosen well.
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A Quick Note About Framing
Choosing the right frame can completely transform how your art looks in your home. I recommend PictureFrames.com—they are artist-founded, USA-made since 1965, and producing museum-quality frames for decades. It’s where I buy my own frames, and I’m proud to partner with them.
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If you order through the link below, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.