Welcome to the M.I.D.A.S. ARTS Universe
Knowledge
There are some things we miss. Facts that I believe that photographers and artists should know but we are not fully made aware of. I'm going to do my best on this page to explain facts and information regarding matting and framing. I've worked in the business of framing for about five years. In that time I've learned quite a lot. I feel that this information should be shared.
Size
So, in this particular case Size does matter. Because knowing about size is an invaluable tool into saving time if you ever have to get a photo framed or an artwork matted. Of course there's always going to be professionals ready to assist you. But just in case you end up with a newbie or the occasional nonchalant worker this will help out
What size is it? Well, do you know? have you measured your artwork/photo?. Well just in case, here is a list of standard sizes that frame shops may carry.These measurements are for the inside of a frame and they're in inches.
4x6
5x7
8x10
8.5x11
9x12
11x14
12x16
14x18
16x20
18x24
20x24
20x28
20x30
22x28
24x30
24x36
27x40
30x40
Now anything up to 8.5x11 you can find as a table top frame. Once you jump into 9x12 you've gone into wall frames. Let's face it, anything beyond the 8.5x11 would just be too cumbersome to have on a desk. Always good to know before you walk into a frame shop.
Matting
Why does matting exist? Well, Matting helps to prevent a piece of art or photograph from attaching itself to glass. Glass conducts moisture and over time may act as a glue that takes the image to it. So Matting helps to prevent this. It also becomes a great place for the eye to rest on a busy piece. Or to expand on the idea of any pieces.
Standard size matting is sold in many Frame/ Art/ Craft Stores. These are the ones that I'm aware of.
4x6 image - 8x10 frame
5x7 image - 8x10/11x14 frame
8x10 image - 11x14/16x20 frame
8.5x11 image - 11x14 frame
8x12 image - 12x16 frame
11x14 image - 16x20 frame
12x16 image - 16x20 frame
11x17 image - 18x24
12X18 image - 18x24
13x19 image - 18x24
16x20 image - 20x24
Alright, anything that is beyond the 20x24 frame size will have to be cut for you. As well as anything that is not made into a standard size. Time of completion and prices vary by store so you may need to shop around.
Spacers
Spacers are a thin plastic strip with a side that is adhesive so that it can attach to either glass or a frame. When Matting is not an option or a desired look, spacers are the alternative for keeping glass off your piece.
Glass
Glazing is important. I know that sounds really simple, but the simplest truths are best used here. Glazing has several benefits and also down sides. But luckily frame shops have choices available based on what you need. But here are some facts you should be aware of.
1. If your piece is an original/ has sentimental value/ or a signed and numbered piece. You should get a UV Protective glass.
2. UV glass prevents the UV rays given by light from damaging and fading a piece (Artwork). Over time your piece can loose its vibrancy if allowed to sit under regular glass.
3. Only a small percentage of ready made frames in a store will have UV glass. You will have to purchase the glass separately.
4. There are other forms of UV protective glass available such as Museum and Non Glare UV glass.
I advise that if you truly care for what you're getting framed that you use UV glass.
Make sure you use matting or spacers to separate the glass from your piece.