Documounts Articles

Custom and Pre-Cut Mats and Frames

Posts Tagged ‘framing supplies’

Learn About Basic Frame Supplies

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Documounts sells all of the basic frame supplies that you will need to easily and affordably frame your artwork and photographs.  This article will walk you through some of the basic frame supplies that you can find at Documounts.

Mat boards and mount boards are essential frame supplies for framing artwork on paper.  Before you can even put your artwork in a frame, you need to mount and mat your artwork.

Mounting adhesives are important mat and frame supplies.  These frame supplies are used to securely adhere your artwork to the mat and mount board.  These mat and frame supplies include things like spray adhesive, linen tape, and photo corners.

Glazing is one of the necessary frame supplies that you can’t do without.  The glazing protects the artwork from direct exposure to sunlight and from environmental pollutants.

Frames or frame mouldings are the most important frame supplies, because the frames you choose will be on display as much as your artwork is.  The frame will have a great impact on the overall appearance of the artwork.

Picture hanging wire or hangers are necessary frame supplies for actually putting your artwork up on the wall.  We sell spools of picture hanging wire in various weights, to accommodate for framed artwork of different degrees of heaviness.  Our selection of frame supplies also includes various types of hangers, such as sawtooth hangers and strap hangers.

Documounts also carries many other frame supplies that will help with the assembly of your frames, such as framer’s points, spring clips, and glazier’s push points.  Additionally, our selection of frame supplies also includes useful tools such as putty, touch-up markers, burnishing bones, acrylic spacers, and point drivers.

You will enjoy deep discounts on many of our frame supplies when you buy in bulk.  For instance, mat boards, mounting boards, frames and frame mouldings are available with discount pricing when you buy large quantities.

Whenever you need frame supplies, shop at Documounts!

Frame Matting Helps Your Artwork Come to Life

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

When your artwork or photography is ready for framing, there are many options to consider.  From the color and style of frame matting, to the materials and design of the frame itself, the selections you choose can enhance your artwork in numerous ways.

When it comes to frame matting, Documounts offers many customization options.

Option 1 – Frame Matting Quality

Choose from our three levels of frame matting quality:  Economy, Standard and Archival.  These various levels of frame matting quality allow you to get a quality mat at any price point.

Option 2 – Frame Matting Layers and Setbacks

Choose single, double or triple frame matting to complement your artwork.  The standard setback for frame matting is ¼”.  However, you can select from 14 additional setback options for a completely custom look.  When choosing multiple layers, you will select the setback, quality of frame matting and color for each layer.

Option 3 – Reverse Bevel

If you opt for a reverse bevel, the 45 degree angle is reversed so that no bevel shows against your artwork.  Artist who work with chalk pastels commonly use this frame matting option.  The reverse bevel is also preferred for a clean, sharp look. The cost of the reverse bevel option is $1.50 per mat.

Option 4 – Frame Matting Color

Options abound when it comes to color selection.  Depending on the type of frame matting you choose, there could be as many as 150 color choices or more.  When opting for multiple layers of frame matting, the color combinations you choose can add drama to any piece.

Option 5 – Blank Frame Matting

Would you prefer to order your frame matting without an opening?  No problem, we can do that.  You will receive a 20% discount for any blank frame matting order.

Option 6 – Frame Matting Sizes

When ordering your frame matting, you will be able to select both the inside and outside dimensions of your frame matting.

Option 7 – Frame Matting with V-Groove

For a unique, decorative look, opt for a V-Groove accent.  This decorative channel line that is cut into the face of the mat.  This is a stunning frame matting option.  If you would like your frame matting to include a V-Groove you must choose the amount of space the V-Groove will be out from the window

Option 8 – Weighted Window Frame Matting

Custom frame matting typically comes with a centered window opening, so that distance from the window to the edge of the frame is consistent from top to bottom and side to side.  We also offer the option of weighted window frame matting.   A weighted window will typically have an additional ½” to 1” of space from the bottom of the window to the edge of the frame matting.  This additional space helps to balance the look of the artwork and can also add visual interest to smaller pieces of artwork.

Option 9 – Discounted Frame Matting

At Documounts, we value your business.  The more frame matting that you order, the more you save.  Discounts begin with the order of the just 4 mat boards.   Click here for a full list of our frame matting discounts.

Your complete satisfaction is our goal, so customize to your heart’s content.  No matter the frame matting options you choose, we are certain you will receive the best quality mat board and service from Documounts.  Click here to begin the process of customizing your frame matting order.

Matting Wholesale Saves Time and Money

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

For artists and photographers who run many prints of their work, matting wholesale can save time and money.  At Documounts, we know that matting wholesale is an important component of keeping your artwork affordable and your business profitable.  We offer all of our matting at wholesale prices to help you succeed.

When you begin shopping for matting wholesale, it is vital that you are receiving the quality of mat board you require.  At Documounts, you never have to worry about the quality of our wholesale matting.  The same mat board that we sell individually is available in wholesale quantities and prices.  When you purchase your matting wholesale from Documounts, your discounts begin with the purchase of just four pieces.  Discounts for wholesale matting increase when you order 8, 16, 48, 250, 1,000 and 5,000 quantities.

Wholesale matting from Documounts comes with the same choices and selection as when you ordered just one or two pieces.  You will be able to choose from archival, standard and economy quality wholesale matting.  The color, number of layers, sizes and window openings are all available for customization.  If you prefer weighted windows or reverse bevels, simply select these options when customizing your matting at wholesale prices.  Our easy to use ordering system will walk you through all of your options, and provide you with your cost based on the quantities you select.  Matting wholesale doesn’t get easier than this.

At Documounts, we know that matting wholesale saves you time and money.  We work hard to make our discounts for matting wholesale the best in the business.  Artists throughout the country rely on Documounts for matting at wholesale prices.  Simply design the custom matting that works best for you, order the quantities you require and let us do the work.

Click here to start ordering your matting wholesale.

Save Money with Wholesale Mats from Documounts

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Are you in need of wholesale mats for framing?  Documounts, the reliable source for all your framing needs, has a wide selection of wholesale mats available.  From archival to economy quality, our wholesale mats are always top quality at a great price.

For those artists who are in need of wholesale mats, we offer discounts beginning with the purchase of just 4 mats.  Discounts increase as you order wholesale mats in quantities of 8, 16, 48, 250, 1,000 and 5,000.  For example, 8×10 archival quality Bainbridge Alphamats are available for just $1.14 per mat when you order 5,000 or more wholesale mats.  If you prefer to order 5,000, 8×10 standard quality wholesale mats, you will pay as little as $0.42 per mat.  For top quality wholesale mats, you simply cannot beat the prices available at Documounts.

For artists and photographers who are running multiple prints of their work, purchasing wholesale mats provides the opportunity to take advantage of volume pricing discounts.  There is no reason to purchase your mats one or two at a time.  If you regularly produce artwork of the same size, consider the benefits that wholesale mats can provide.  For a small upfront investment, you will have a large selection of wholesale mats at your disposal.  Having our wholesale mats on hand makes it easier for you to frame your artwork for sale and/or display.

If you regularly attend art shows and fairs, consider our various mat kits.  These kits come in quantities of 25 or 50, and include the wholesale mats, backing and clear bags.  Simply assemble the kit and your artwork is ready for display and sale.  The bags protect your artwork from the elements and make it easy to transport between shows.

To begin the selecting wholesale mats for your artwork, visit Documounts today.

Order Wholesale Photo Mats and Save Money

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Are you trying to save money on display costs, but don’t want to sacrifice on the quality and presentation of your artwork?  If you need to keep costs down, try purchasing wholesale photo mats from Documounts.  Our wholesale photo mats offer artists and photographers a great selection and the ability to increase savings as more wholesale photo mats are ordered.

When you purchase wholesale photo mats from Documounts, you will be able to choose from our selection of pre-cut and custom wholesale photo mats.  Our pre-cut wholesale photo mats are available in the standard quality mat board.  Options for pre-cut wholesale photo mats include both single and double mats in white and black.  Our pre-cut wholesale photo mats come in 8×10, 11×14 and 16×20 sizes.  All of these pre-cut wholesale photo mats come in packs of 25 for your convenience.

If you need more customization options than our pre-cut wholesale photo mats offer, you can create exactly the size and color of mat you need with our Custom Cut wholesale photo mats.  Choose from a large selection of colors in our archival, standard and economy quality mats.  Add the perfect accents including multiple layers, weighted windows, and more to create the perfect wholesale photo mats for your artwork.

Regardless of which type of wholesale photo mats you choose, the more you order the more you save.  Our top quality wholesale photo mats are depended upon by artists throughout the country to bring a finishing touch to their artwork.  Since 1984, Documounts has been the trusted leader in wholesale photo mats and framing supplies.  Our superior customer service and unparalleled quality brings artists back time and time again. Learn what artists across the country know, that Documounts’ commitment to top quality products, at affordable prices, is unmatched.

Documounts Offers Many Discount Frame Options

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

From Custom Cut to Ready Made, Documounts offers a wide selection of discount frame options.  Choose the materials, profile and finish of each discount frame you order from Documounts.  At Documounts, we provide artists with the best quality discount frame options at the best prices.

Our Ready Made discount frame selection includes options in our Black, Silver & Gold and Dark Wood Collections.  Each of these discount frame collections offers a selection of profiles and sizes for you to choose from.  Whether you prefer clean contemporary lines, or a more classic elegant look, our Ready Made discount frame collections include a wide variety of options.  Ready Made discount frames come in 8×10, 11×14 and 16×20 sizes.  The more frames you order the more you save.  With the purchase of three or more frames you receive a 10% discount.  Order 12 or more discount frames, and receive a 20% discount.  All of our Ready Made discount frames come with glass, cardboard backing and a sawtooth hanger for your convenience.

For more framing options, choose from our selection of Custom Cut frames.  Our Custom Cut discount frame options include frames made from both metal and wood.  Colors and profiles are nearly endless with our Custom Cut discount frames.  As with our Ready Made discount frames, the more you order, the more you save.  Discounts vary based on the type of frame you select. Wood frame discounts begin with the purchase of just four frames.  With the purchase of 7 wood frames, you receive an even larger discount. View our metal frames pricing chart here.

When you order a discount frame from Documounts, you receive the best quality, selection and price available.  Don’t waste any more time shopping for discount frames.  Purchase your Ready Made and Custom Cut wood and metal frames from Documounts.

Order your Ready Made discount frame here.

Order your custom cut wood discount frame here.

Order your custom cut metal discount frame here.

Mount, Display or Ship Your Artwork with Mounting Foamboard

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

Getting your artwork ready to show, or better yet sell, often requires it to be mounted.  Mounting foamboard provides you with the versatility you need to quickly mount, and easily transport or ship your artwork.  Let’s examine some of the ways that mounting foamboard can be used.

One way to use mounting foamboard is to have your prints or photos adhered to the board.  You have two options when adhering artwork to mounting foamboard.  The first option is to purchase mounting foamboard with pre-applied adhesive.  This type of mounting foamboard is perfect for framing prints and photos, but is not archival quality.  At Documounts, we carry 3/16” self-adhesive mounting foamboard with a white surface and acid-free adhesive.  However, some artists find self-adhesive mounting foamboard difficult to use because of the strength of the adhesive.

The second option is to use spray adhesive to adhere your artwork to the mounting foamboard.  If you choose this route, you may select from either Standard or Archival quality mounting foamboard.  Both our Standard and Archival mounting foamboard comes in 1/8” and 3/16” thickness.  With the additional purchase of repositionable spray mount adhesive, your artwork can then be adhered to the mounting foamboard.

Many artists also use mounting foamboard to showcase their artwork for sale.  For artists who travel between shows, or consign their work to stores and galleries, placing their artwork against mounting foamboard, and protecting it in a clear bag, is the perfect way to merchandise their work.  We offer several kits to make merchandising your work easy and affordable.

When you purchase mounting foamboard from Documounts, your order is custom cut to your exact specifications.  Discounts for orders of same sized mounting foamboard begin with the purchase of just 4 pieces.  Providing artists with high quality, affordably priced options is what we do best at Documounts.  Click here to learn more about our mounting foamboard options, and to place your order.

Documounts Offers Many Board Backing Options

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

Artists across the country rely on Documounts for top quality framing and display supplies.  Our reputation for having the best selection, service and price is what brings artists back for all of their framing and mounting needs.  When mounting artwork, we offer a range of board backing options for you to consider.

One of our best selling board backing options is 2UB board.  2UB board backing is also commonly known as x-board or chipboard.  This type of board backing is our least expensive option.  The thickness of 2UB board backing is similar to that of a photo mat.  It comes with a white surface over a smooth gray core.  2UB board backing is ideal for thin profile framing.

Another popular option for board backing is 4UB board.  4UB board backing is slightly thicker and stiffer than 2UB board.  For artists who require board backing with a bit of stiffness, this is the best option.  Not quite as thick as foam core, 4UB board backing is the perfect middle ground between foam core and 2UB board.  It is important to note that neither the 2UB nor 4UB board backing is archival quality.

At Documounts, we also carry a wide selection of foam core for your mounting needs.  We offer foam core board backing in 1/8” and 3/16” thickness.  This type of board backing comes in archival or standard white or archival black finish.  Choosing foam core allows you the option to chose archival quality board backing, as well as self-adhesive surfaces for mounting.

If you plan on attending art fairs or festivals, consider our prepackaged display options.  We offer several options that include pre-cut mats, board backing and bags for the display and protection of your artwork.  Sold in quantities of 25 or 50, these kits offer options in the size and style of mat, and board backing for you to choose from.

Click here to learn more about our board backing options.

To view our selection of display kits, please click here.

Alphamats Provide Archival Quality Mat Options

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

When framing original works of art, limited editions, photographs or antique documents, you simply cannot make a better photo mat selection than Alphamats by Bainbridge.  Alphamats are the leading choice for artists who want to give their artwork the added touch of a mat, without the fear of damage to their work.  All Alphamats are archival quality, and are fade and bleed resistant.

Documounts carries a large selection of Alphamats for you to choose from.  Our Alphamats selection includes:

  • 4 Ply Alphamats with a White Core. These top quality Alphamats come with over 150 color options to choose from.  Alphamats are archival quality and have been treated to completely remove any acids that may harm your artwork.  With a gallery-quality look, Alphamats will show your artwork at the highest possible level.  The 4 ply Alphamats are best for limited edition prints and photos, and are also ideal for one of a kind artwork.
  • 4 Ply Alphamats with a Black Core. Offered with all of the same benefits of the white core 4 Ply Alphamats, the black core draws special attention to your work. The Alphamats’ black core brings definition to black and white images and helps color images to pop.
  • Top Mat Alphamats. These 6 Ply mats are 1 ½ times the thickness of a standard mat offering a thicker bevel to showcase your artwork.   Most often used for limited edition prints, one of a kind pieces and photography, Top Mat Alphamats are archival quality.  Top Mat Alphamats come in a variety of colors, and with white and black core options.

We also offer an Alphamats Sample Pack.  This collection of whites, off-whites and blacks come in 4×6 sized pieces. There are a total of 25 sample boards in this packet.  If you prefer to have a complete color collection at your disposal, you can opt for the 12”x12” mat corners.  This selection of Alphamats samples are just like the ones you would see in a professional framing shop.

Click here to purchase the Alphamats that best compliment your art work.

How to Choose the Art Mat that is Best for Your Artwork

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

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.