Do you prefer mats with your frames?

[bigmike]

Do you prefer mats with your framed posters?
I know the benefits of using spotlight or hpf.
But for a properly framed poster, do you use mats or prefer the look without?
I want to frame a couple of mine, but I want to go higher end with the UV plexi (as they are rare posters). But since I’m already at that route, would you choose to mat it as well? Would it stand out more?
Your opinions….

[skyjackers]

Personally I prefer a simple frame without mats. I want to look at poster not the frame, but it’s personal so go with what you think looks good and works with your space.

[bigmike]

I agree, I’m not really looking at the frame as much, but I’m just wondering if the mat will make the poster pop more, then just a simple frame?

[BwanaDik]

Framers use mats for a simple reason; glass catches humidity.   Not a fan of mats neither, I prefer full bleed framing or float mounting... but for sure, a nice triple-mats with right choice of color can make the poster pops more. I wouldn't do for large size, stick to small posters for mats.  If you use mats, then consider using glass instead of plexi.  Glass is still better than plexi in terms of sun protection; UV glass are expensive if you go for high protection. Downside of glass, heavy and it can breaks. There indeed UV plexi, check protection rate with supplier. If you use plexi, consider have opening behind (to avoid any acidity reaction - e.g. vinegar syndrome, especially for modern poster with bad ink).  Last, remember, worst you can do your framed poster is to put it somewhere were there are environment changes... I don't know where you live, but if sunny, avoid it.  If in a humid environment, then make sure you add extra piece of paper between backboard and mats to absorbs humidity (don't take a bad MDF backboard, they will mold in a year).

Since I like to swap my poster, I chose a cheap sandwiched frame with special clips I can remove, full bleed.  This is cheap and you can swap poster anytime - https://scontent.fnbo2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/217502530_10222942511564821_192130348901395895_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=f727a1&_nc_ohc=Da4hpB_ydTwQ7kNvgE_xMM3&_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo2-1.fna&oh=00_AYDkt4hpYvwXbB1RG6T_AVp-7yMuAvDHfdqMidD9Tw8qdA&oe=66A6B5D3

As for frame design, etc., they are websites where you can custom frame.... some are even doing 2- or 3-mats... found this in my gmail, https://designstudio.larsonjuhl.com/