Picking the Right Mat Color

Picking the Right Mat Color

  If you choose to use one mat, we suggest using a neutral color. Any neutral tone will enhance your art, but some will stand out and scream, "Pick me! Pick me!" so play with a few before simply going with White.

 If you plan on using a double mat, one way to go is to use a neutral color on top, and for the "reveal," (the inner mat closest to your artwork) punch up the color by matching the mat to a dominant color in the artwork. This high-contrast treatment will add new dimension to your presentation.

One of the most important aspects of custom framing is the selection of the mat.  Picking the right color is so important to the finished look.

The right colored mat can make your picture pop, bringing out the flattering tones and hues. The wrong colored mat can make your photo look washed out, discolored or bland. With a little forethought, you can select a mat that will completely complement your picture.  

Choose a selection of mat colors from the color group that achieves the look you want.  Select colors that complement or contrast well with the predominant color in the art and keep the frame in mind as well.

Lay the mats on your picture, one color at a time. Examine the picture for the tones and hues that the mat brings out. Notice how placing the photo on different colors in turn makes it look completely different. For example, a blue mat might bring out the blue eyes of a person in a close-up portrait, while a red mat might make some blotchy discolorations of that person’s skin look more prominent. Select a mat that makes the colors in the picture look natural and flattering.  Choose the color mat that looks best with your picture.