About Mark Beach Expertise I can answer any questions about custom picture framing or any one of custom picture framing components, i.e. matting, glass, mounting and wood or metal frames. I can answer questions about proper framing techniques to preserve artwork. I can not answer questions about restoring artwork or the value of artwork.
Experience I have over eleven years experience in custom picture framing and nine years experience managing a frame shop. I have worked in every retail area of custom picture framing.
Education/Credentials I've trained under 3 indiviuals that have more than fifty years of combined expierence. I have attended several PPFA (Profestional Picture Framers Association) certified workshops.
Expert: Mark Beach Date: 12/1/2006 Subject: Framing Watercolor
Question Hi Mark,
Thank you for responding to my question regarding proper framing for the watercolor. Here
are the answers to your inquiries:
1. It is not the original watercolor, however it is signed by the artist, and the mat,
which is double, allows for the signature.
2. It is double matted -- the inner mat, which is teal in color, showing 1/4" and
the outer mat, which is slightly off white, is 5" in depth all around the print.
3. The mat is 32" wide.
4. Yes, the 26x32 measurement includes the mat.
5. The most prominent colors in the print are soft teal and a blue/grey. It is a
painting of the shore, with waves and dunes, at dusk, the sun hidden behind
clouds, and it is very low key.
Hope this helps.
Answer Hi May,
I like the mat widths on your print. Too many times artists use mat widths that are too small. I would look for frames that were no smaller than about 2.1/2" wide. You need that size of frame to balance out the large mat widths as well as a frame that is structurally sound enough to support the weight of the glass. Of course you can use a frame that is larger, but I would not go over a 4" frame.
When choosing a frame one of the most important elements is to choose a frame that has the same feel as the artwork. For example if you were framing a very modern abstract you would want to use a slick, black or metal type of frame as opposed to a very ornate antique style frame. In your case look for a driftwood style frame or one that has a light, distressed finish. Stay away from frames that are too bright or too dark. Your print sounds like it has very muted colors and your mat colors are also soft. A dark frame is going to be too much of a contrast.
Choosing a frame is a process of looking at several corner samples and choosing one that works great with your art and that fits within your personal tastes. I recommend you take it to a reputable frame shop in your area. Try to stay away from the big box stores that claim to have 50% off sales all the time. They typically are not less expensive and you won't get the same customer service or the best advise.
As a side note make sure whoever does your framing that they use conservation glass or sometimes called UV glass. Conservation glass blocks 98% of UV rays that causes fading.
Thank you for the additional information. I do apologize that it took so long to get back to you. This time of year is crazy. If you have any other question or if you need any clarification on the things I have said please let me know.
