Ever wandered into an art gallery or framing store, only to be greeted by a confusing array of materials and terms? One of these terms, matboard, is likely to have caught your eye, but what exactly is it, and why is it so essential in the world of art and framing?
In the simplest terms, matboard is a type of paper or cardboard used as a backer between the frame and the artwork. It's often used as a foundation for mounting photos, prints, or artwork before framing. However, the role of matboard extends far beyond merely supporting the artwork. Let's delve into the details of what makes matboard an integral component in the art world.
Understanding the Composition of Matboard
At its core, matboard is essentially a heavyweight paper substrate, often made from various types of wood pulp. The quality and composition of the wood pulp determine the caliber and longevity of the matboard. High-quality matboard typically uses cotton or alpha-cellulose pulps, which provide excellent archival properties and resistance to yellowing over time.
Besides the paper, matboard is also defined by its sizing, weight, and bevel. The size refers to the thickness of the matboard, usually measured in points (1 point equals 1/1000 of an inch). Common sizes range from 8 to 32 points, with 16 and 24 points being the most popular. The weight, conversely, represents the basis weight in pounds per 1000 square feet. Lastly, the bevel is the cut edge of the matboard, which can be left natural or painted to create a decorative border.
Standard Matboard vs. Archival Matboard
One crucial distinction in matboard is between standard and archival varieties. Standard matboard, while cheaper, is often made from materials that cause it to deteriorate faster. It may also contain acids that can damage the artwork over time. Conversely, archival matboard is designed to preserve artwork for generations, using acid-free, lignin-free, and pH-neutral materials.
Archival matboard is the gold standard for protecting and preserving artwork. It's not just about longevity; archival materials also provide a more consistent and dependable environment for your artwork, minimizing the risk of damage or discoloration. For this reason, archival matboard is usually more expensive than its standard counterpart but offers a worthwhile investment for those looking to protect their artwork's integrity.
The Art of Decorating Matboard
Matboard isn't merely a functional element; it's also a significant aesthetic factor. Many artists and framers explore the creative potential of matboard, using it to add color, pattern, and texture to their pieces. One common technique is to paint or stain the bevel edge, creating a decorative border that accentuates the artwork. Another is to use colored or textured matboard to set off the artwork, enhancing its presentation and adding visual interest.
Dry mounting, a technique that involves applying heat and pressure to adhere the artwork to the matboard, is also popular. This not only creates a sleek, professional finish but also secures the artwork, preventing it from shifting or bubbling over time. The creative possibilities are extensive, limited only by one's imagination and the rules of good design.
Matboard in the Context of Framing
Matboard plays a vital role in framing, serving as a buffer between the artwork and the glass, preventing moisture-related issues and protecting the piece from dirt and fading. It also provides a professional appearance, elevating the artwork's presentation. Moreover, matboard offers extensive customization options, with various finishes, textures, and sizes available to suit different pieces and styles.
The act of creating a matboard border also offers artists an opportunity to frame their artwork in a creative and meaningful way. For instance, a subtle matboard border can help direct the viewer's focus onto the artwork, while a broader border can create a visual rhythm or balance the piece's composition.
Choosing the Right Matboard for Your Needs
Selecting the right matboard depends on several factors, including the artwork's size, style, and material, as well as your budget and framing goals. For instance, oil paintings typically require a wider border than photographs, and acid-free, archival matboard is usually essential for sensitive materials like watercolors or pastels. Meanwhile, unique accessories like floating frames might necessitate specialized matboard cuts.
Given these nuances, it's recommended to consult with a professional framer or seek guidance from a knowledgeable associate when choosing matboard. They can advise on the ideal size, weight, and material for your artwork, ensuring you make an informed decision that protects and enhances your piece.
In the grand tapestry of art and framing, matboard might seem like a minor element, but its role is pivotal. It's not just about supporting and protecting the artwork; it's about enhancing and elevating it. Fromarched borders to acid-free materials, matboard offers a wealth of opportunities for artists and enthusiasts alike. So the next time you're framing a treasured artwork or scouring an art gallery, keep an eye out for this often-unsung hero of the art world. After all, it's the little things that often make the biggest difference.