Get to know about the picture framing & its components from NYC's best custom picture framers, Paintbox NoLiTa, offering all kinds of museum quality picture framing services & supplies at affordable prices. Visit us now at www.paintboxnolita.com or give us a call on 212.965.9600

1. Understanding the Picture Framing Components
Buying a custom made picture frame can be a strenuous task if you are the first-time buyer & doesn't know
anything about picture frames. But with basic understanding & knowledge on some picture framing & its
elements, anyone can purchase custom frames with confidence whether online or in a brick & mortar store.
Before purchasing, It's very important to do the homework on picture frames as this will guide the buyer in
properly selecting the right frame as per the needs. The major components of picture frames are 1) the
actual frame which can be wood or metal depending on your requirements, 2) a mat board which can be
colored or textured, 3) protective transparent cover called glazing, 4) mounting or backing board onto which
the artwork is affixed, 5) protective sheet to prevent dust & humidity
The Actual Frame
This is the component that encloses the picture or artwork & is visible part of the frame. These actual
frames are either made from wood or metal & are available in hundreds of styles, shapes & colors. The
frame molding serves the purpose of providing structural support, ensuring that all other components are
intact & the artwork being frames is secure.
Matting Board
Matting board also popularly known as “mat board” or “matting”, is a piece of paper or board that is placed
between the glazing & the artwork. The main purpose of having matting is to separate the artwork from
sticking to the glass & to highlight the artwork.
Glazing
This is the clear protective surface cover that protects the picture from dust particles, moisture, humidity
thereby acting as a shield for the artwork. Usually made of either glass or acrylic called Plexiglas, it
minimizes large humidity & temperature changes & protecting the picture or artwork from potential damage
that can occur during transportation.
Mounting Board
The mounting board also called as backing board or foam boards are paper-based products that fit inside
the picture frame. In other words, it is the material to which the artwork is attached. The mounting board
enhances the durability of the frame. This can be either cardboard or wood based material. Avoid using
cardboard as the mounting option as it contains high amount of acid which will ruin the artwork. Instead
archival backing can be used, where the material used does not contain acid or lignin that can cause
discoloration to the picture paper.
The Protective Sheet
The last component of frame is the protective sheet which is a piece of lint-free paper affixed to the outside
of the frame with double sided framing tape to prevent the dust & humidity from entering through the back
of the frame. This protective sheet cover is optional but highly recommended to protect the artwork.
Being familiar with each components of picture frame will help you
choose the best options as per your requirements & will make your
framing process smoother. There are many custom framers that will
guide you in choosing the best in each component as per your picture &
artwork. Paintbox NoLiTa, is one such custom picture framing store, located in 22 Spring St NY, NY
10012. The store is racked with huge collection of frames for every type of picture & artwork offering
museum quality framing solutions at affordable prices. Call them now on 212.965.9600 to get your picture
custom framed with best quality. Happy Framing!