When it comes time to choose the art mat that best complements your work, the selection can be overwhelming.  Choosing the best art mat for your project can be a challenge; especially since the type of art mat you choose may vary based on how you intend to display your work.  For those who plan on selling their art at fairs or festivals, a simple white mat may suffice.  Others who plan on showcasing their work at galleries or in studios may desire an art mat that is thicker or one with color.

So how do you know which art mat to choose?  Use these 5 tips to choose the best art mat for your work.

Tip # 1 – Know when to choose archival quality art mat.

For artist framing limited edition pieces and one of a kind artwork, choosing an art mat that is of archival quality is essential.  An archival quality art mat has been treated so that all of the acids are removed from the paper.  Archival quality mats will protect and preserve your art for years to come.

Tip # 2 – Choose a high end art mat for a gallery quality look.

If a gallery quality look is important to you, consider a higher end art mat such as the Bainbridge Alphamat, Alpharag or Top Mat Alphamat.  All of these matting options provide a high end look and feel for your artwork.  Click here to view our gallery quality art mat options.

Tip # 3 – Consider the thickness of the art mat.

Top quality art mat comes in several thicknesses.  Bainbridge offers art mat in 4, 6 and 8 Ply thicknesses.  The Alpharag archival quality art mat comes in both the 4 and 8 Ply thicknesses.  The 8 Ply Alpharag is 1/8” thick; twice the thickness of a standard mat.  An 8 Ply art mat will provide a bolder more sculpted bevel.

The Bainbridge Top Mat Alphamat is 6 Ply, or one and half times the thickness of a standard mat.  This type of art mat is of archival quality and enhances the look of your art.  Click here to view these types of art mat.

Tip # 4 – Know what color art mat you want.

Sometimes the hardest part of choosing an art mat is choosing the color.  Depending on the type of art mat you choose, you may have as many as 150 color options.  From bright and bold colors, to shades of white, your color options are nearly endless.  Having an idea of what color you want will make the selection process easier.

Tip # 5 – If you are matting large quantities of art, consider our bulk options.

At Documounts, we offer pre-cut art mat kits.  Our pre-cut kits options include same sized art mat in quantities of 25 and kits that include the art mat, backing board and clear bags in quantities of 25 or 50.  Click here to view our pre-cut kits.