Frequently Asked Questions

The size listed for a frame (e.g., 8x10 inches) refers to the dimensions of the photo or artwork it is designed to hold. It does not refer to the outer dimensions of the frame itself. So, an 8x10 frame will hold an 8x10 photo perfectly.

For a perfect fit, measure the exact height and width of your artwork. Do not round the numbers. You should then order a frame that matches those exact dimensions. For example, if your print measures 12.5" x 16", you would need a custom frame of that size.

The frame size is the interior dimension of the frame, matching your artwork size. The mat opening is the window cut into the mat board. This opening is typically cut 1/4 inch smaller on each side than your artwork size. This creates a slight overlap (1/8 inch on each side) to hold the artwork securely behind the mat without it falling through.

A mat (also called a mat board or mount) is a paper-based border that sits between the frame and your artwork. We exclusively use Crescent Select mat board for premium protection and vibrant presentation. It serves two key purposes:

• Visual Appeal: It creates a professional-looking border, drawing the eye towards the artwork.
• Protection: It creates a space between your artwork and the frame's glass or acrylic, preventing potential damage from moisture condensation or adhesion over time.

A high quality mat board will be made of dense, 4 ply cotton paper and will be acid free, also called conservational, and will have a high quality core. The core is what you see when the mat board is cut to reveal your photo or artwork. Since there is a bevel on the cut, you will plainly see the core, and low quality mat board will usually use inexpensive cardboard cores, producing a yellowish or brownish cardboard color when cut.

High quality mat board will also have vibrant colors, even if black or white, these will be vivid, and they will usually have a texture which gives it a very nice appearance. The mat boards we use (Crescent Select) rank among the best available today and have all the qualities listed above.

We recommend using the "T-hinge" method with acid-free framing tape, also called "Artist Tape" (which is included with your frame). The benefit of this type of tape is that it will not damage most artwork, and is repositional - meaning you can remove it and reattach it without it ripping mat paper or your artwork. Attach two small pieces of this tape to the top edge of your artwork (sticky side down), then place another piece of tape to secure it to the backing or mat board. This allows the artwork to hang naturally and expand or contract with temperature changes without buckling.

Both are options for protecting your art. Many retailer offer only acrylic, because it will not break during shipping and is much less expensive than glass. We use only real glass. Here's a quick comparison:

• Standard Glass: Offers excellent clarity and is scratch-resistant, but it's heavier and can shatter. It requires additional care and materials when shipping to protect it from breaking.
• Acrylic (Plexiglass): Is lightweight, shatter-resistant, and is easier to cut. However, it can be more prone to scratching, produces an unpleasantly noticeable glare and "platicsy" sheen, can easily become faded, and requires special care when cleaning - normal glass cleaners can damage it. You must use cleaner specifically designed for acrylics to prevent clouding or damage, which usually costs more than normal glass cleaner.

For the frame itself (wood or metal), use a soft, dry cloth. For the glazing, spray a small amount of cleaner onto a microfiber cloth (never directly onto the surface) and carefully wipe clean. Do not spray unfinished wood with glass cleaner.

Please see our Frame Styles and Finishes page to answer these questions.

Please see our Frame Styles and Finishes page to answer these questions.