framing a print

[ltfran51]

<p>When framing a print like an 8X10, 11X14, what size matting and frame should be used. I have a few 8X10 prints that I matted larger to fit in a 16X20 frame. Should I use smaller mats and frames? How does one decide?</p>

[richardsnow]

<p>You decide by what is aesthetically pleasing to you.</p>

<p>Personally, I like smaller frames and mats:<br>

8x10 image mounted in 11x14 frames<br>

5x7 image mounted in 8x10 frame<br>

etc...etc...</p>

<p>But there is no right and wrong as long as the result pleases you.</p>

<p>RS</p>

[Matt Laur]

<p>Truly. It depends on where and how it will be displayed, what sort of frame it will be in (a thin metal frame? a four-inch antique-ish baroque-looking wooden beastie?). Completely subjective. <br />On larger prints (say, something that will be in a 16x20 frame), I like to use roughly 3 inches of mat around the print.</p>

[drjoder]

<p>Richard and Matt have good advice. And to repeat the "that depends" that they both allude to...I have seen what was probably a 5x7ish print displayed in something like a 16x20 mat--interesting effect that may or may not work depending on what you want to do. My prints are usually 12x18 inches (opening) and I use 18x24 mats--so, you pretty much might mat most like Matt mentions. : )</p>

[Matt Laur]

<p>What matters when you mat is mating the mat's material to the matte of the print, and marking your masterpiece "by Matt."<br /><br />I mean, I should know.</p>