How much do you know about design? Taking a piece of art to a framer can seem overwhelming and complex. You may not know the right questions to ask or what to look for when the designer shows you choices. Here's a quiz to help sort it out. Remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder...what matters most is what looks good to YOU! |
QUESTION #1
QUESTION #2
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to design; it all depends on what style you are going for.
The black mat surrounding the art is the most DRAMATIC because it features high contrast colors - white on black - and creates a feeling of elegance and sophistication. The maroon coloring example is DECORATIVE; using such a bold color is usually done as a statement, to match accessories, or to be on-trend. Be careful with this choice, as that "match" may change in a couple of years. The beige example is the most VERSATILE due to its neutral tones allowing both focus and color contrast.
QUESTION #3
- Mats serve as "visual padding" between your frame and artwork.
- Mats keep the glass from touching your artwork.
- Acid-free mats are part of an archival-safe environment for your artwork.
- All of the above.
ANSWER:
All of the above!
Matting serves many useful functions and add to the appearance and preservation of your artwork. Matting enhances your art by creating visual "breathing room" between your art and frame, as well as emphasizing color.
Pro Tip - If you want the very best, choose acid-free "rag" mats - they are 100% cotton!
QUESTION #4
Pro Tip - Sometimes the more colors and busier a piece of art is, the more "neutralized" it needs to be.
QUESTION #5
- When there are many colors in the art.
- When you want a contemporary feel.
- When you want to create a consistent look between multiple pieces.
- All of the above.
ANSWER:
All of the above!
White mats can "neutralize" busy, colorful art. They give a clean, modern look to a piece of art or photograph. White goes with everything, so white mats can create a cohesive look to multiple pieces of art.
Pro Tip - Make sure that the white mat is not brighter than any white in your art, or it will be a distraction.
COLOR HARMONY:
COMPLEMENTARY A complementary color scheme uses two colors that are located directly across from each other on the color wheel. Examples include blues and oranges, yellows and purples, and reds and greens. The high contrast of complementary colors creates a vibrant look, bringing eye-catching energy to art. |
Fort Worth, TX 76133
817.292.7842
www.kenscustomframes.com
Wendy A. Williamson, Owner & President
wendy@kenscustomframes.com