Matting and Framing

You seem to use the same framing on virtually all your prints … a simple black frame with a wider than usual mat. Why is that? Would you suggest that for someone’s home?

Most definitely. That combination of a simple black frame and white mat is often referred to as Gallery-Style Framing. It’s sort of like the black tux or little black dress … they never go out of style.

Some of my images are available in a borderless version, which is necessary for printing on canvas. They can also be used for prints.

All my images are available with a white border specifically to look best when mounted in a mat and frame. My preference and suggestion is to use traditional gallery-style framing (as my samples show). A simple (square) black wooden frame, and an off-white mat that is wider than most people usually use. Another benefit is that gallery-style framing is often less expensive than other styles.

For a starting point to determine mat width, I note the shorter side of a print (e.g., with an 8×10, it’s the 8″ length) and divide it by two, which gives 4. A three- to four-inch mat is a good starting point for this 8×10 sample, and can be adjusted per your preference.

Sticking with gallery framing allows you to add pieces years down the road, and they’ll blend right in with your oldest pieces. It’s traditional and does not go out of style. A successful mat and frame should pull attention into the print … not to the mat and frame.