Framing Tranquillity: The Art of Choosing Matting and Frames for Fine Art Prints

Whether you’ve just purchased a new print or are reimagining your gallery wall, choosing the right frame and mat can transform how art lives in your space. At Ingrid Beddoes Photography, we believe that how you present your art is just as important as the piece itself.

Why Framing Matters

Framing does more than protect—it completes the story. A well-chosen frame enhances color tones, adds texture, and brings cohesion to your space. It’s a finishing touch that transforms a print into a statement.

Choosing the Right Frame

Start with the vibe of your room. Is it airy and minimal? Rustic and warm? Modern and bold?

• Natural Wood Frames: Perfect for coastal or Scandinavian-style interiors. They offer warmth without overpowering the print.
• White Frames: Keep things fresh and modern. Ideal for colorful or highly detailed artwork.
• Black Frames: Best for contrast and drama. They’re great for monochrome photography or minimal abstract pieces.

Pro tip: Match your frame to the mood—not just the color palette—of the room.

Learn more about archival framing techniques at The American Institute for Conservation

To Mat or Not to Mat?

A mat isn’t just decorative—it gives your print breathing room. It draws the eye inward and adds a sense of quiet sophistication.

• White or Off-White Mats: Clean, timeless, and versatile. Always a safe bet.
• Colored Mats: Use sparingly. They work best when echoing a subtle tone from the artwork.
• No Mat: For a modern edge, especially with borderless full-bleed prints.

Think about scale too. Oversized mats can create drama, while narrow mats keep things sleek.

Sizing It Right

Prints come in many sizes—but your wall and furniture will help dictate what works best.

• Use painter’s tape to mock up the dimensions before committing.
• If your art is going above furniture, aim for 2/3 the width of what’s below it.
• Leave breathing room on gallery walls—art needs space to shine.

Glass, Glare & Protection

Always go for UV-protective glass or acrylic to prevent fading. For rooms with lots of light, anti-glare options help keep the focus on the artwork, not the reflections.

For long-term preservation, we recommend archival-quality matting and acid-free backing boards. These protect your investment while maintaining the integrity of your prints.

Let the Art Speak

At the end of the day, the frame should never shout louder than the print. It’s there to support, not steal the scene. Choose options that highlight the emotion of the image—frames that whisper, not yell.

Final Thoughts

Framing is an art in itself. It’s the quiet poetry that surrounds your print—the balance between structure and emotion. When done thoughtfully, it turns your space into a gallery of moments, memories, and meaning.

Want more styling inspiration? Check out our post on Gallery Wall Magic: Creating Balance in Every Room

Take your time. Choose what feels right. And remember: tranquillity is found in the details.

Discover our curated collection of art prints on the Ingrid Beddoes homepage