Types of mats available

Float: A float is when the viewer wants to see the art work in its entirety so all the edges of the work are seen. This requires V-Hinges and fillets on the glass. Your framer will supply the fillets and explain the process. Glazing should never touch the art work.

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Float with single mat: Sometimes a single mat with a float is appropriate. Fillets would not be necessary here because the 4 ply mat is thick enough for the glass to be separated from this woodcut.

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Float with double mat: A double mat was added to the float for primarily aesthetical reasons.

Single mat: A single mat is used to cover the edges of the art work, to help support the piece and most importantly, keep the glass off the art work. A single mat is perfectly adequate protection for the watercolor.

Double Mat: A double mat was used with this family crest for extra thickness because of the buckling of the piece and for aesthetical reasons.

Single mat with double window: Many times there are two or more pieces of art that work quite well together in the same mat and frame.  Each piece of art work must be hinged separately and the mats can be decorated accordingly.