What is the importance of a Matboard in Picture Framing

Picture framing has been around for centuries and will never go out of style for years to come. It is the one of the most reliable methods for protecting your artwork while enhancing its look as well. Framing a piece of art requires lot more than mere design and color selection. You need to take care of a set of things including the type of mounting or foam board to be used, glazing of the front layer of frame, width of the edges, and many other things.

One of the important components of picture framing is a matboard. Matboard is nothing but a flat piece of paper-based material that surrounds your artwork in a frame separating it from the glazing while complementing overall look of the frame. Other than that, it also provides some room between the frame and artwork. Matting(the process of using matboard) influences the overall view of your interiors as it can highlight the room decor or a particular shade in your frame. There are several reasons why you should apply matting in framing your cherished piece of work and the major ones are highlighted below.

• Matting facilitates air circulation
  Circulation of air between your picture and the glazing material (probably plastic or acrylic) is vital. This is because in the absence of an air gap, the condensed moisture trapped between the two layers will lead to formation of uneven molds and mildews, ultimately ruining the artwork. Moreover, if your artwork is glossy, chances are it might stick to the glazing material due to tight pressure.
• It enriches the overall appearance of your interiors
  You might be thinking how can matting affect the visual presentation at that level. Believe it or not but it does. Right matting can reflect the color of your artwork or the room it is placed in. When properly proportioned it can also visually augment the size of a smaller picture, or diminish a larger one to synchronize with the surrounding space.
• Matboard acts as a support system for your frame
  Matting protects both framed and unframed artworks. In case of unframed artwork, it facilitates easy handling for artists and collectors by providing additional surface area to view or carry the item.
  For framed artwork, the matboard protects the support base (hinges) which holds the art in place. Artwork is usually attached to a backing board - preferable method for professional framers.

Matboards are classified into two basic types: acidic and acid free. Traditionally, acid-free material was not widely available. It has come to light only recently and is popularly used by picture framers. When it comes to choosing a matboard, you should go for a framer whom you can trust on account of his years of experience and expertise. Experience should be the deciding factor and it is your responsibility to go for a true professional who can cater to your needs. A good picture framer will help you with all the small details that goes into custom picture framing. Picture framers at Paintbox Nolita offers you the latest techniques, designs and products in the picture framing industry. Select the best custom picture frame not on the basis of price but on the basis of the effect it will produce on your artwork. Custom picture framing can be expensive but it is definitely worth every single penny spent on it.