There is more to painting a picture than just putting paint to paper or canvas. How you present your masterpiece to the public is equally important.
Watercolor Paintings
If you work in watercolor as I do, matting is the next step once the painting is complete and you have applied your signature. Sometimes I don't get the framing done right away, but I usually do cut the mat as I can't wait to see if it is all coming together the way that I had envisioned. Mats usually are between 2" and 3" wide depending on the size of the painting. For most of my matting I use an off-white colored mat board. Once the mat is cut, and the picture is hung and secured to the mat with linen tape, I place the watercolor painting in a plastic sleeve. When it is in a sleeve I know that it is safe from dirt, accidents and so on.
By cutting my own mats, time and dollars are saved. Mat board is less expensive when bought in quantity rather than one at a time. One sheet of mat board measures 32" x 40" and will produce four 16" x 20" mats or two 20" x 24" mats.
Framing
Careful consideration should be given to picking a frame for your artwork. Trying two or three frames is always a good idea. The color is important and should blend in with the colors of your painting, it should not fight or distract from it. Also the size of the frame should not overpower the watercolor painting. Some paintings can handle an elaborate, decorative frame, while others look much better with a simple, streamline frame. If you are unsure, ask your family and friends to help you make your final selection.
Acrylic paintings
Acrylic paintings done on canvas require a coat or two of acrylic varnish. They do not require matting. If the sides of the canvas have been painted a frame may not be necessary. However, it's easy to pop a canvas into a frame with four frame clips if framing is desired.
In short, equal consideration should be given to matting and framing as these two elements alone can make or break a painting.
I invite you to visit my website at Maren's Creations to view my fine art paintings, art prints, and greeting cards.
www.MarensWatercolorCreations.com
Please also visit my Blog.