Category: Frames

Mat Boards & Picture Frame Mats: A Beginner’s Guide

Mat Boards & Picture Frame Mats: A Beginner’s Guide

Published November 3, 2023

What are mat boards?

A mat board is a thick layer of a cardboard-like material that is used to protect your photo or artwork in a frame. Mats are typically made from either pressed wood or cotton pulp.

The mat board material serves as a protective barrier between the glass or acrylic in a frame and the surface of your artwork/photograph.

For example, if moisture seeps into a frame and there’s no protective barrier (mat board), it can be disastrous. Over time, moisture can cause the artwork to stick to the glass or acrylic, which will eventually destroy the photograph or art piece. Having a mat board as a barrier protects your photo or artwork from the glass or acrylic.

But mats are not only used for protection of an art piece; they’re also a decorative border around your photo or art print. The mat breaks up the spatial continuity of a complete framed piece. It can be used to lead a viewer’s eye to the art/photograph by bordering it with negative space. It also gives the artwork a finished look.

Blue, green, and gray mat boards lay on a wooden desk with a clay flower pot blurred in the background. The image shows the thickness of the mats.

Is mat board acid free?

Not all mat boards are acid free—but many are. Mat board quality depends on the material it’s made from.

There are three classes of mat board: decorative, conservation, and archival. Both decorative and conservation mat boards are made of pressed wood pulp and are made to be either acid neutral or acid free.

Decorative mat boards are acid neutral. The wood pulp is treated with calcium carbonate which neutralizes the acid and lignin that naturally occur in wood pulp.
Conservation mat boards are made of wood pulp where the acid and lignin are removed from the material.
Archival mat boards are usually made of cotton pulp which naturally does not contain either acid or lignin

Our mat boards are in the decorative class and are therefore acid neutralized (not acid free). They’re made out of wood pulp that’s treated to protect the board for degradation of the acid and lignin. So if you’re looking for a mat to protect your photos or art—but not necessarily preserve them for a lifetime—our framing mats will work great for you.

Is mat board the same as mount board?

No. Mat board serves as a layer between your photograph and the glass or acrylic cover. Mount board is for support under your photograph or artwork and serves as a stiff backing to assist in sturdiness.

How to frame with mat board?

First, determine the photo or print size you’re going to frame. That’s the inner size of your mat. Then, decide what size frame you want, and that’s the outer size.

For example, if your photo is 8″ x 10″, you’ll want a mat that is larger than that opening. An 11″ x 14″-sized mat board with an 8″ x 10″ would accommodate your photo beautifully.

Mat board size also depends on preference. How much negative (border) space do you want around your photo? Do you want a thick border or a thin border? Once you choose your image and mat board size then you’ll want to choose a frame that accommodates the size of the mat board’s outer edges.

Once you have your art or photo, the mat board, and frame then it’s time to assemble your finished piece!

Black frame with white mat board holds a photo of a sun backlit lighthouse and pier. The frame hangs on a wall between a window with a light curtain and a fireplace mantle that's holding a decorative vase and some candles.

Is mat board recyclable?

Yes. Mat boards made out of wood or cotton pulp are recyclable.

Mat Board vs. Chipboard/Cardboard

Chipboard is a thinner board made of wood pulp and/or recycled products. It’s also sometimes known as paperboard. Chipboard varies in size and thickness and is sometimes used as a backer board for photographs and artwork.

Chipboard is normally not “acid free” or “acid neutral”. Sometimes the board is covered in acid free paper that will help protect your artwork. However, this type of product is not considered “museum” or “archival” quality.

Cardboard is often made of several layers, and it’s usually thicker and sturdier than chipboard. Cardboard can come in many forms. The most common type is corrugated cardboard (what’s used for to make shipping boxes), which is made of two layers of heavy paper called liners, with a middle layer of paper folded like an accordion. The accordion is glued to the two outer layers. Corrugated cardboard is not usually acid free. It can be covered with an acid free paper to protect artwork for a limited amount of time.

Mat board is made from either wood pulp or cotton pulp; cotton pulp provides the most long-term protection. Mats are often labeled as “acid free” when they are actually “acid neutral.” Since wood pulp naturally contains acid and lignin, a chemical is added to wood pulp boards to neutralize the acid. Cotton pulp is naturally acid- and lignin-free so these types of mat boards are used for archival purposes.

Standard Mat Board Dimensions

Standard mat board sizes are typically the same size as standard photograph sizes:

5″ x 7″
8″ x 10″
11″ x 14″
16″ x 20″
20″ x 24″

But mat boards are not constrained to these sizes. Professional framers and some mat board vendors can cut a mat board to a custom size. Need a custom-sized mat board? We sell mat boards cut to size.

What are some mat board uses?

Mat boards can be used to protect and display your:

Artwork
Photographs
Certificates, Awards & Diplomas
Posters
Sports Memorabilia

Can text or logos be added to mat board?

Yes! You can personalize decorative mat boards. At Studio Style we can foil stamp text, logos, monograms, or even a special message on a mat board. Learn more about our personalized photo mats or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.

Green, white, and blue photo mats imprinted with company logos.

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What is the cardboard inside a picture frame called?

What is the cardboard inside a picture frame called?

Published July 6, 2021

The thick material inside a picture frame is called a picture frame mat. It’s typically sturdy like cardboard, but it isn’t actually cardboard.

Crafted out of sturdy mat board material, picture frame mats are an easy way to highlight a framed photo, art print, or map. They are available in all sorts of colors, for any occasion, for any taste. Most picture frame inserts are made of out archival-quality, acid-free material, meaning they won’t yellow or fade the prints they frame.

Someone is holding a stack of colorful picture frame mats. — Sometimes called cardboard, picture frame mats are typically made of thick, acid-free material to frame and protect your photos or prints.

Why use picture frame mats?

Picture framing mats are an easy way to “dress up” a print you want to frame. Whether you choose a subtle 1″ border or something thicker, mats to frame photos add an upscale elegance to your framed photo.

Are some photo mats better than others?

The thickness and material of matting for frames can make a world of difference. Thin matting material doesn’t accent your photo as well as a thicker mat board. Where this really makes a difference is with the beveled edge. That angled edge gives your framed print that professional touch. How thick the mat board is defines how much of that beveled mat edge you see.

Another point to consider is that while most photo mats are made of acid-free material, not all are. Some mats are acid-resistant; they’re not acid-free, but have a coating to protect the prints from the acid of the board. Be sure to check before purchasing.

Close-up of the beveled edge detail of a cream-colored picture frame mat. — This mat board is 48pt thick and has a clean beveled edge to highlight your photo or art print.

What size frame mat should I buy?

There are two things you need to consider when buying mats for picture frames:

1. What size frame you need.

2. What size photo or print you want to frame.

To determine the outer size of the mat board, simply measure the glass or clear cover from the picture frame. That’s the outer dimension of your mat board.

To determine the inside size, measure your print. Keep in mind that most people who cut mat boards leave an overlap of no more than 1/4″ on all sides. This overlap helps hold the print in place and avoids any gaps between the print and mat when framing.

Can the picture cut-out be non-rectangular?

Absolutely! Most mat board cutters can cut custom frame mat shapes for any type of insert. We can even cut multiple openings in the frame matting. When you start with the uncut piece of mat board, the possibilities are endless. If you’re not sure where to buy picture frame mats, we can help.

We made a double-layered photo mat with a 4×6 photo window opening and a round opening to hold a medallion. The top mat is dimpled like a real golf ball, the bottom mat is a dark, forest green.

What about custom photo mat imprinting?

Adding your logo, design, or message to a frame mat is easy and adds that extra bit of personalization. It’s the perfect addition for frames that are being given as gifts, for framing diplomas or certificates, or even as a prize at a tournament or silent auction.

We can add a foil stamped imprint to any photo mat. While gold and silver imprints are the most popular, we have more than 20 foil colors to choose from.

Picture frame mats with foil stamped logos. — A sample collection of custom imprinted photo mats. From top: white on navy blue mat; gold on green mat; black on cream mat.

We can help with your photo mat needs.

Want to learn more? Read our beginner’s guide to mat board. Whether you need something completely custom, or are simply in need of a blank photo mat, we can help. Our USA-made picture frame mat inserts are available with low minimums and attentive customer service. Find your photo frame mat or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.

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Vintage paper photo frames: Why they’re so wonderfully nostalgic

Vintage paper frames and portrait folders

Vintage paper photo frames: Why they’re so wonderfully nostalgic

Published March 8, 2021

Most of us have been there: digging through grandma’s box of photos and family portraits. It’s filled with delicate loose prints, much-loved photo albums, and those old-fashioned, vintage paper photo frames.

“Oh, that was your great-great grandma,” says grandma as we hold the aged but sturdy portrait folder. The portrait is beautiful in and of itself; portraiture was a unique art in the early 20th century, and unless a photographer is using antique photo equipment, it’s hard to beat that wonderfully black and white or sepia-toned vintage look.

But it’s not just the photo that gets us; the vintage paper photo folder has that old paper smell, and it’s still holding up, after all those years.

Vintage paper photo frames and portrait folders were popular with photographers because it was a safe and easy way to give clients their prints. The photographers also knew the paper frames and folders would protect the prints.

What they might not have known is how much those vintage portrait folders would be treasured.

Why we love vintage portrait folders & paper frames

Long story short, we see the value in them—because of how people react to vintage paper frames. Even if it’s something that was created 100 years before they were born, that nostalgic feeling is evoked with a simple whiff of the paper.

When the digital photo era really took hold, we held on tight to the traditional portrait folders (and kept selling them) because, although more people were opting for digital images, digital images are quickly forgotten. GIFs just don’t have the same staying power as printed pictures (ask grandma). 👇

We love printed pictures! Follow us on Instagram for more quips and inspiration about the beauty of printed photos & portrait folders.

While our portrait folders and paper frames are styled a little differently than those of the late 19th century and early 20th century, the idea remains the same: frame your studio portraits in something that’s not only beautiful to display, but will protect your prints for years to come.

Our photo packaging solutions are quality-crafted in the USA—they always have been. They are made out of sturdy 20pt recycled paper stock that is acid-free and archival-quality. The materials might be different from the old, vintage paper picture holders, but the feel and nostalgia are the same.

How vintage-style paper photo holders are used

Although cardboard portrait folders and paper frames are used for more event photography these days, they are still highly sought-after by studio photographers. They are especially popular with photographers and studios using traditional photographic techniques, like tintype photography (shown below).

Modern portrait folder has the same look and feel of vintage paper photo frames — Studio portrait folder with custom stamped border decorations. This one is used to frame tintype photos. Image taken by forgottenfilm.us.

Where to buy vintage portrait folders & picture frames

If you want authentic vintage portrait holders, you’ll want to check out Etsy and ebay.

If you just want that authentic feeling, but are ok with a modern interpretation, we’re here for you. We have classic black and white portrait folders and textured paper frames that evoke that nostalgic feeling and protect your prints with acid-free, archival-quality paper. Best part: they come at a bargain price.

Some more bonus points for our vintage-style portrait folders & frames:

Acid-free & archival quality. While our folders are typically used for events, they are perfect for storing photos.
No glue or tape required. Better for long-term storage (less acid from tape means less change in photo color and clarity)
Unique storage solution. Rigid folders keep your treasured photos from creasing
Have a photography studio? Make them custom. We specialize in adding studio logos to our portrait folders using a traditional hot foil stamping technique. Just like photographers used to add their name to folders, you can, too.

Take a look at our portrait folders or paper frames. Not sure what portrait frame will work for your photographs? We’re here to help. Send us your thoughts, or give us a call: (800) 346-3063.

Vintage-style portrait folders for studio photography and event photos. — Sturdy paper portrait folders with a unique textured finish. Designed + made in the USA by Studio Style

The image at the top of this post features vintage paper frames and photo cards as curated by the Beinecke Library of Yale University. See their collection of images on Flickr.

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How to frame your Sports Memory Mate Pictures: A guide to Cardboard Memory Mates

How to frame your Sports Memory Mate Pictures: A guide to Cardboard Memory Mates

Published January 6, 2020

You have your memory mates prints… do you have frames for them?

If you’re the photographer, do you offer cardboard Memory Mate frames to your clients as a package add-on?

There are many framing options you can add to your sports photography packages, from economical paper portrait folders to cardboard frames and even upscale poly frames.

Let’s look at what you can do with different framing options.

The Economical: Frame your Memory Mates in Paper Frames or Photo Folders

Paper and cardboard photo folders and frames for 8″ x 10″ Memory Mate sports pictures are an extremely economical—and practical—option. Here’s why:

They’re made out of paper, and paper is inexpensive. (Bonus: these are made of recycled paper)
Photo folders have a front cover that folds over to protect your print from fingerprints and creases—perfect for handing out to athletes or parents.
Are you the photographer? Add your studio logo to the front cover or back of the portrait holder.
Or add the team mascot logo to the front cover with foil stamping.

Shop 8″ x 10″ photo folders for Memory Mates or 8″ x 10″ paper frames.

The Mid-Range: Frame your Memory Mates in Cardboard Picture Frames

A bit more sturdy than paper photo folders, 8″ x 10″ cardboard picture frames have an upscale look—at a fraction of the cost.

Here’s why you might want cardboard frames for Memory Mates:

Sturdy frames that are less expensive than wood frames.
Display on the wall or stand up on a desk.
Our cardboard frames are available with a glossy black wrapped finish. Or check out our mat board frames if you want to match the team colors.
Order Memory Mate cardboard frames blank (no order minimum!) or add the team logo with classy foil stamping.

Red cardboard frame holds a football player memory mate collage

Shown: Red Mat Board Frame for 8″ x 10″ Memory Mates. Shop the collection.

The Upscale: Frame your Memory Mates in Moulded Picture Frames

Polystyrene (plastic) frames are an upscale framing option for Memory Mates. Designed to look like real wood with a subtle decorative moulding, these frames come with your choice of colored picture frame mats.

So why go with this luxury option for your memory mate picture frames?

Upscale look perfect for displaying at home or in the office.
Adding mat board gives it a professional touch.
Glass face protects the print.
Deluxe, wood-like finishes: black, cherry, or walnut.
Slots for hanging on the wall, or display your 8″ x 10″ Memory Mate frame on your desk with the horizontal/vertical easel back.

Memory Mate Picture Frames… also good for Magazine Covers

We’ve all seen them (or even bought them): the magazine-style photo of your athlete, complete with mascot, position, team colors, and professional sports magazine-style layout.

Yes, the magazine covers deserve a frame, too! For framing sports magazine covers, we recommend using a sturdy cardboard frame, like this or this, or choosing an 8″ x 10″ poly frame.

Photographers: How to add Memory Mate frames to your sports photography packages.

Did you know we have a wholesale program for photographers? Signing up is easy, and you get special deals on all of our photo folders, picture frames, and photo cards. Sign up at StudioStyle.com.

Once you sign up, you’ll get access to lots of wholesale resources, including sell sheets, marketing tips, pricing advice, and more. Want to chat first? No problem. Send us a message, or call our team at (800) 346-3063.

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Spin Art Card Frames: Kids Art Party

Published March 27, 2012

Looking for a fun activity and party favor rolled into one for your next kids art party? Have the kids make their own spin art!

But don’t send kids and party goers home with nothing to hold their art; send them home with a party favor that complements their creation.

Frame the spin art with inexpensive 5×7 photo frames from Studio Style, allow to dry, and send kids home with a fun and funky craft they’ll love to show off.

What is spin art and how does it work?

Spin art is a popular activity at carnivals, birthday parties, school fun fairs, summer camp, festivals, and park district events. Also called twirl art, spin art machines can be rented at carnival and party rental supply companies.

Paint (and sometimes glitter) is squeezed or dripped onto a paper card that is attached to a spinning platform creating an abstract piece of art. For decades, spin art has been a carnival staple because it is a fun and interactive arts and crafts activity that results in an instant novelty souvenir that can be taken home. It is also a proven money maker at fundraising events.

Why paper frames work perfectly for holding spin art

Most spin art cards measure 5″ x 7″, which fit nicely into one of our 5″ x 7″ paper photo frames. You can order these paper picture frames blank (with no order minimum!), or you can personalize these art card holders and frames with your event name or logo.

If kids aren’t sure which way they want to display their art, don’t worry; these paper frames come with pop-out easels so they can display them horizontally or vertically.

And while these cardstock frames are made of thick, recycled paper, they are light enough for mom or dad to hang up with a few pushpins or heavy magnets at work or home.

Looking for other frame options? Check out our entire line of 5×7 photo holders for spin art prints—we have more than 30 5×7 photo folders and frames to choose from, including many themed designs.

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