Benefits of Using Acid Free Mat Board

Important artwork can benefit from the use of acid free mat board as opposed to acidic mat board. There are variations in the types of acid-free mat board available depending on the materials used. Quality varies from mat boards made of wood fibers that have been treated to neutralize acid to mat boards that are made of cotton rag that are completely acid-free.




Consistent Fade-Resistant Color
Acid free mat board are composed entirely of either alpha cellulose, wood fibers or cotton rag, resulting in consistent colors throughout when cut. Acidic mats composed of acidic wood pulp have less bright and consistent coloring than acid free mat boards, and are more susceptible to fading and yellowing over time. Either type of mat  board can fade with exposure to sunlight if not mounted under UV-protected glass.

Durability
Acid in mat boards and in their environments causes their materials to decompose, with acidic mats breaking down more quickly than acid-free mats. Over time, decomposition causes mat board fibers to weaken, fray and discolor.

Effect on Artwork
Mat boards that are not acid-free function well for temporary displays, but acid free mat boards are best for preserving artwork over time because they are less susceptible to decomposition. The highest quality acid-free mat boards are often referred to as museum quality or archival mat boards because they can best assist in preserving framed items over time.

Because mat boards are in direct contact with the framed artwork, the acidity of the boards can also cause discoloration and damage to the artwork. For this reason, framers and galleries recommend acid free mat boards for use with original artwork or other framed items that are of monetary or sentimental value.

When is Mat board used?

Framers primarily use mat board to enhance the look of a framed piece. When the right color of mat board is chosen, it can help draw the viewer’s focus towards the framed art. Matboards play a significant role in framing due to the fact that it is the main material of concern that may protect the art forever or severely cause it damage. Many natural elements affect art and matboard is used to prevent those damages.

Photographers utilize precut mat board to display their photographs to clients or to sell at an art gallery. Precut mats are available at any art supply store and can also be purchased by matboard suppliers. Artists, Architects and practically any profession with creativity can use matboard. Often times, mats can be used for 3D model making, product photography and most commonly, matboard can be drawn or painted on.

If you plan to use matboard to do your own picture framing, it is imperative to measure the mat correctly to leave an attractive border around your art or photography. Usually, professionals recommend a three inch border on the top and sides of your picture and four inches of space for the bottom border of the matboard. This helps to “weight” your picture and give the finished piece a more visually appealing look.

What is Matboard?

Matboard, also referred to as a mat, is a heavy paper-based material used in the picture framing process. This cardboard-like material sits between a frame and your photography or artwork to give it a complete finished look. During the picture framing process, matboard also serves as additional protection, separating the art from the glass.

Photo by cgancos