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Prescott, Arizona 86301

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The Art Store by the Frame and I, Art Supplies

Custom Matting

A mat is more than a pretty color! Traditionally matting serves a twofold purpose - the first, and most recognizable, is the visual effect. A properly designed mat can enhance and even improve the beauty of the artwork. The second (and less obvious) reason for matting is to preserve works of art or photographs on paper. A mat provides the proper depth for airspace between the artwork and the glazing. This is important because temperature shifts can cause moisture to condense on glass, which can then cause mold, fungus, rippling or sticking of framed items to the glass! A mat also serves the function of isolating the artwork from environmental contaminants that can leach in from the edge of the frame.

The best mat boards are cotton or high alpha cellulose, archival, lignin and acid-free boards. Don't settle for inferior wood pulp (also known as paper) matboards! They can damage your art or collectibles by off gassing acid as they age, causing fading and yellowing. High quality matting provides the best support for framed objects by protecting and enhancing it. Not only will proper matting help to protect and preserve your art, it will set the mood for the finished piece.


french matting Decorative Matting
A double or triple mat is a beautiful way to accentuate your artwork. A mat can reflect your personal style with additional decoration, such as a v-groove, decorative corners or cut art, French lines, or hand painted panels or bevels. Our skilled designers have over fifty years of combined experience to customize a look that suits your unique project.

InLay Matting
A mat can be designed with inlays of alternating mat colors for a beautiful, refined custom look. Reminiscent of marquetry and fine inlaid wood furnishings, an inlay mat can add sophistication to that special project.

French Matting
Traditional French Matting incorporates watercolor or pastel panels painted on the mat and enhanced with hand-drawn ink lines. This classic look can really set off antique to contemporary items. We work with you to come up with the perfect French mat, hand crafted to enhance your object d'art.

fabric matting Fabric Mats
Fabric mats come in a multitude of colors and textures. Suede, linen, leather, cotton or silk - we have a fabric to suit your particular style and taste. Some mats come pre-covered with fabric, while others are hand-wrapped with fabric from the bolt. Let us custom tailor a look for you!



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artists and may not be reproduced in any way without expressed written permission