All of our Fine Art Prints (except for panoramas) are available either unframed, framed, or matted and framed. The matting technique is called 'simulated' because the appearance of the mat is actually part of the print paper. Mat board is not used. However, it allows a very attractive matting option at an extremely reasonable price.
Frames come in two types: light walnut or dark walnut. Both are 1" wide, 3/4" thick, with a smooth finish and made from wood composite with wood grain pattern. The light walnut style tends to match nicely with the cream color mat and warm colored images. Dark walnut matches the gray mat and cooler tones. However, depending on the actual image - you should choose what is most pleasing to your own eye - and there are several combinations to choose from.
Prints fit 1/4" within the frame on all sides. Choose framed prints sizes based on the size of the frame.
Framed prints are shipped with a non-glare plexiglas front. Mounting hardware is taped to the back. Once the mounting hardware is attached, the prints are ready to hang on the wall.
We offer two mat colors: gray and cream. The gray mat matches nicely with images that have cool or blue color tones. The cream mat works best with redish or warm colored images.
Simulated mats are created by adding the mat border, based on the mat width and color you have made, to the special 'enhanced matte' paper that is the only paper type available for matted prints. The simulated mats have a slight texture, simulating a linen material.
There are three simulated mat choices for framed prints: No Mat, 1" Mat, and 2" Mat. With no mat, the print size will be close to the frame size - for example, a 12 x 18 frame accepts a 12 x 18 print, and measures about 13.5" x 19.5" outside, 11.5" x 17.5" inside. With a 1" mat, the print size will be 2" smaller in both dimensions than the frame size. For example, a 12 x 18 frame accepts a 10 x 16 print with a 1" mat border on all sides. With a 2" mat, the print size will be 4" smaller in both dimensions than the frame size. For example, a 12 x 18 frame accepts a 8 x 14 print with a 2" mat border on all sides.
Contact us for more information or questions you might have.