Framing Matters: What Surrounds the Art Matters, Too

When we look at a finished piece of artwork, our attention naturally goes to the image itself. But the mat, frame, glazing, backing, and mounting materials all play an important role in how that artwork looks today—and how well it holds up over time.

A good frame does more than provide decoration. It should complement the artwork without competing with it, provide structural support, and protect the piece from environmental damage. The choices made in framing can also have a significant effect on the final selling price of an artwork.

Not All Mats Are the Same

One of the biggest differences is between standard mat board and acid-free or conservation-grade matting.

Many inexpensive mats contain acids and lignins that can migrate into paper over time, causing yellowing, discoloration, and deterioration. Acid-free and conservation mats are manufactured specifically to reduce this risk and are generally the better choice for original artwork and fine-art photographic prints.

Color matters as well. Bright or strongly colored mats can work in the right setting, but neutral whites, creams, grays, and soft earth tones generally allow the artwork to remain the focal point. A well-chosen mat should support the image—not become the first thing you notice.

Choosing the Right Frame

Frames can be made from solid wood, engineered wood, MDF, plastic, aluminum, or combinations of materials. Each has its place.

Solid wood frames generally offer durability, strength, and a more refined appearance, but they also cost more. Aluminum frames can provide a clean, contemporary look and are particularly useful for photography. MDF and plastic frames are usually less expensive but may offer less structural strength and longevity.

Premade frames from big-box retailers can certainly be useful, but buyers should look beyond appearance. Some inexpensive frames use thin plastic glazing, acidic cardboard backing, low-quality fiberboard, weak hanging hardware, or mats that are not archival. These may be perfectly adequate for decorative posters, but they are not always ideal for preserving original artwork or collectible fine-art prints. 

What Is in Front of the Artwork Matters, Too

Glazing is another area where price and performance can vary considerably.

Standard glass is the least expensive option and offers good clarity, but reflections from windows and lighting can make artwork difficult to see.

Non-glare or reflection-control glass reduces distracting reflections, although some varieties slightly soften the image because of the textured surface used to scatter light. It generally costs more than standard glass.

Museum-grade glazing represents the premium end of the spectrum. High-quality museum glass combines exceptional clarity with anti-reflective coatings and substantial ultraviolet protection. In many lighting conditions, it can almost appear as though there is no glass in front of the artwork at all. The drawback is cost—museum glass can easily be several times the price of ordinary glazing.

Acrylic glazing is another option, particularly for larger pieces where weight and breakage are concerns. Conservation-grade acrylic can also provide excellent UV protection, although premium versions can rival museum glass in price.

Framing Is Part of the Price of Fine Art

This helps explain why two artworks of similar size can have very different prices.

A professionally presented piece might include a pigment print on archival paper, acid-free matting and mounting materials, a solid wood frame, conservation backing, quality hanging hardware, and upgraded glazing. By the time those materials and the labor required to assemble them are included, the framing alone may represent a substantial portion of the finished artwork's cost.

For artists, presentation is therefore more than an afterthought. It is part of producing the finished work.

For collectors, it is worth looking beyond the image and asking what surrounds it. Quality materials help the artwork look its best on the wall today while helping preserve it for the years ahead.

At McQuade Fine Arts, we consider framing and presentation part of the creative process—because the artwork should not only catch your eye when you first see it, but continue looking its best long after you bring it home.