How matting affects the cost of framing: a framed vs unframed art prints cost comparison at the same shop

Matting increases framing costs by 25–60% depending on material, width, and complexity, with acid-free cotton-rag mats (2–4 ply, 1.4–4 mm thickness) adding $80–$300 to a standard 50x70 cm / 20x28 in frame, while basic single-ply paper mats add $30–$90.

Material and thickness specifications

Acid-free cotton-rag mats (250–310 gsm) are the archival standard, costing 3–5x more than alkaline-buffered lignin-free paper mats (180–220 gsm). A 4-ply rag mat (4 mm thick) for a 50x70 cm / 20x28 in print adds $180–$250; a 2-ply (1.4 mm) version adds $90–$140. The Fine Art Trade Guild defines conservation matting as pH-neutral with a 3% calcium carbonate buffer to prevent acid migration from the print.

Width directly scales cost: a 10 cm / 4 in border on all sides requires 20% more material than 5 cm / 2 in. Double mats (two layered colors) increase labor time by 30–40%, adding $50–$120. Beveled edges (45° cut) add $15–$40 over flat cuts, while V-groove or fillet accents add $30–$70.

Size and proportion impact

Standard sizes (A2, 50x70 cm / 20x28 in) use pre-cut mats with minimal waste; custom proportions (e.g., 30x40 cm / 12x16 in panoramic) require bespoke cutting, adding 15–25%. Oversized prints (70x100 cm / 28x40 in+) need joined mats (seamless splicing), increasing cost by $100–$200. The Canadian Conservation Institute recommends mats extend 2–5 cm beyond the print to allow handling without touching the image.

An 8-ply rag mat for a 70x100 cm print can exceed the cost of the frame itself, typically $350–$500 before glazing.

Glazing and matting interplay

UV-protective glazing (99% UV block) adds $120–$250 for 50x70 cm, but its lifespan doubles when paired with acid-free mats. Non-glare acrylic (e.g., Artglass AR 70) with a mat reduces visible reflections by 40% versus glass alone. Spacer depth must accommodate mat thickness: a 4-ply mat requires 6–8 mm spacing to prevent print contact with glazing, adding $20–$50 to framing.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s conservation guidelines specify that mats must exceed the glazing’s inner dimension by 1–2 mm to prevent edge damage during temperature fluctuations.

Labor and structural considerations

Hand-cut mats with precision bevels require 20–30 minutes of labor; CNC-cut mats reduce this to 5–10 minutes but add $15–$30 in machine costs. Floating prints (suspended within the mat window) demand exacting alignment, adding $40–$80. Shadowbox frames (deep-set mats for 3D objects) increase structural material costs by 40–60%.

Single mat, 50x70 cm: $80–$150 (cotton-rag) / $30–$60 (paper)
Double mat, 70x100 cm: $200–$350 (rag) / $90–$150 (paper)
Fillet + V-groove accent: +$70–$120

Long-term cost implications

Archival matting extends print longevity from 20 to 100+ years, reducing restoration costs (typically $200–$800 per treatment). The American Institute for Conservation notes that lignin-free mats prevent yellowing, while rag mats resist humidity-induced warping. Reversible hinging (Japanese tissue with wheat starch paste) adds $10–$25 but eliminates adhesive damage.

Resale value retention for framed prints with conservation mats averages 15–20% higher than unmatteed equivalents, per International Fine Print Dealers Association market reports.

Common questions

Does mat color affect the framing cost?

Neutral colors (white, ivory, black) are standard and incur no premium. Custom dyes or metallic finishes add 10–20% ($15–$50) due to small-batch pigment mixing. Textured surfaces (e.g., linen embossing) add $25–$60 for additional pressing steps.

What’s the cost difference between pre-cut and custom mats?

Pre-cut mats for standard sizes (A2, 18x24 in) cost $20–$80. Custom dimensions add $40–$150 for labor and material waste. CNC-cut precision reduces this gap to $25–$90 but limits thickness options to 2–4 ply.

How does matting affect shipping costs for framed prints?

Matted frames increase package depth by 3–5 cm, raising shipping costs by $15–$40 domestically (US) and $50–$120 internationally. Crating for oversized matted prints (70x100 cm+) adds $200–$400 due to fragility and weight (1.5–3 kg more than unmatteed).

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