frame and mat basics

To achieve good proportion be sure that the width of the mat is at least twice the width of the frame. For instance, if the mat border is 2 1/2 inches the frame width should be 1 inch to 1 1/4 inch.

Mat colors may vary, but an ivory color outer mat and dark inner mat is neutral and very popular. The double mat also lends depth and focus to a print and serves to draws the eye in.

There are hundreds of frame styles. Choose a frame that matches the theme of your print. For example, cherry, walnut or oak wood finish frames are good for natural history and historic prints. Black or silver frames work well with Art Deco prints. Gold finish frames look good for sophisticated prints, such as ancient Greek vases and architectural prints. There are also Victorian style frames for turn of the century fashion prints. 

Quality frames are usually made of hard wood and not manufactured wood known as MDF. Expensive gold gilded frames are also available

For eye appeal hang frames and prints either singularly or in groups.