There is something about matting a work that says “Finished.” A mat lends a neat look to a painting, much like framing does. The two together, a mat with a frame, is preferable. But even the mat alone cleans up the work and gives it some room to breathe.
Besides, the work won’t flop over when being shown at those shopping events.
In the photo above, you can see how my watercolor paintings look with and without mats. Those with look nice, clean, and professional. Yes, the paintings without a mat are wonderful, but I think they will display a better appearance with that bit of frame.
So, in an effort to argue with Mr. Resistance to stop visiting, I took a small step toward working.
Matting is working. I may be going old school by using a T-square, triangle, and a razor blade, but it’s fine with me. A few mats a day won’t hurt. Paying a framer hurts. Buying a mat cutting device hurts.
Anyway, I can cut a mean bevel with my bare hands.
Hi, Dora,
All the paintings are great. A mount and backing is a good idea and “ready to sell it” as a professional! BTW, your humour is always charming.
Cheers, Sadami
Yes, makes everything look clean and ready to go. Thank you Sadami!
Oh Dora, your paintings always make me drool. Just lusciously beautiful. I agree, the matting takes it to the next level. I’d love to know any tips or trade secrets on the hand beveling you’re doing! How about a tutorial? 🙂
Gee thanks Jamie! I think I might just show how I do it!
Of course your paintings looks wonderful without the matting, but I do see what you mean, the matting certainly Sets them off so well. Wish I could cut them as well as you do, I get confused with the maths!..lol.
Thank you Ann! I am definitely no math whiz, believe me!
Mats do set off paintings, beautifully.
I’m amazed you can cut them by hand, something I could never do.
Hi Pat! I learned to mat by hand a long time ago in high school. My father used a tool that held the blade for the bevel, and some people use some other contraption. I try to be careful doing it with a single edged razor blade.