The right mat board can elevate photos, artwork, and prints by adding depth, color, and a clean border. This guide highlights five high-quality mat boards and backing options that are popular among hobbyists and professionals alike. Each pick offers durable cores, archival materials, and sizes suitable for common frame dimensions. Read on to compare features and choose the best fit for your framing projects.
| Product | Size | Core/Color | Pack | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mat Board Center, Pack of 10 (16×20) White | 16 x 20 in | White core, 4-ply (1/16 in) | 10 pieces | Acid-free, uncut |
| Somime 10 Pack Backing Boards (11×14) White | 11 x 14 in | White core, 4-ply | 10 pieces | Acid-free backing |
| Somime 12 Pack Backing Boards (18×24) Black | 18 x 24 in | Black backing with white core, 4-ply | 12 pieces | Acid-free backing |
| Mat Board Center, 10 Pack (11×14) Mixed Color | 11 x 14 in | Mixed colors, white core, 4-ply | 10 pieces | Great for color accents |
| Prudiut 12×16 White Mats (15 pack) 12×16 | 12 x 16 in | White, 1.2 mm core | 15 pieces | Bevel cut; suitable for 9×12 photos |
Mat Board Center, Pack of 10 16×20 White Uncut Mats
These white, uncut mat boards measure 16×20 inches and feature a white core with a 4-ply thickness (approximately 1/16 inch or 1.4 mm). The boards are acid-free, helping protect photos and prints from yellowing over time. This pack includes 10 mats, suitable for larger frames or multiple projects. The uncut format allows flexible trimming to various opening sizes and frame styles.
Somime Backing Boards 11×14, 10 Pack
These 11×14 backing boards come as a 10-pack of uncut white mat boards with a durable 4-ply thickness. They provide sturdy support for photos, prints, and artwork when used inside a frame. The set is described as acid-free with white cores, designed to protect and display pieces while offering reliable stability in daily use.
Somime Backing Boards 18×24, 12 Pack Black
This 12-pack offers uncut backing boards sized at 18×24 inches. The boards are described as 4-ply thick with a white core and a black outer layer for contrast in framing projects. They are marketed as acid-free, providing a stable bed for artwork and photos in larger frames while protecting from deterioration.
Mat Board Center 11×14 Mixed Color Mats
This pack includes 10 sheets of 11×14 color mat boards with white cores. The four-ply thickness (about 1.4 mm) provides a sturdy border and a visually engaging choice for color-rich displays. Ideal for crafts, mixed media, or frames that benefit from a multicolor accent while maintaining archival properties.
Prudiut 11×14 Mixed Colors Mats
These 15 mats come in 11×14 inches and feature mixed colors on the front with a white back. The 1.2 mm thickness provides a slightly thicker border than standard mats, helping to protect photos and art while adding a touch of color variety to frames sized for 8×10 photos. The beveled core adds a premium finish.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Selecting Mat Boards
- Archive quality: Look for acid-free, alpha-cellulose-free cores to prevent discoloration and degradation over time.
- Core color: White cores are versatile and fade-resistance; black or colored cores offer design options but may affect visibility of artwork behind the mat.
- Mat board thickness: 4-ply (about 1/16 inch or 1.4 mm) provides rigidity without adding excessive bulk; thicker boards are sturdier but may require larger frames.
- Size and cutting: Uncut mats offer flexibility to tailor openings; ensure the size matches your frame’s inner opening or standard frame sizes (e.g., 11×14, 12×16, 16×20).
- Backing vs. mat boards: Backing boards provide structural support behind the mat, protecting artwork from bending or moisture when used with frames.
- Color options: Mixed-color packs are great for decorative projects; neutral white cores are best for most photography and art displays.
- Framing context: For professional galleries, consider archival-grade boards and UV-filtering sleeves to optimize longevity and presentation.
- Cutting tools compatibility: If you need precise openings, pair boards with a quality bevel cutter or mat knife to achieve museum-grade edges without tearing.
- Budget and quantity: Bundled packs offer better value for large projects; plan based on frame count and replacement needs.
- Environmental factors: Choose boards that are responsibly sourced and labeled as acid-free to minimize long-term environmental impact on preserved works.