Single Mat vs. Double Mat is that age-old question, and we are here to assist. When it comes to custom framing, matting can completely transform the final look of your piece. But one of the most common questions we hear is:
Should I choose a single mat or a double mat?
Both options elevate your artwork, but they do it in different ways. Let’s break down the visual impact, sizing considerations, thickness factors, and when each option makes the most sense.
What Is a Single Mat in Picture Framing?
A single mat is one layer of mat board placed between your artwork and the frame. It creates breathing room around your piece, separates the art from the frame, and draws the eye inward.
Benefits of a Single Mat
- Clean, modern look
- Budget-friendly option
- Keeps the focus on the artwork
- Great for minimal or contemporary spaces
- Adds visual space without overwhelming the piece
A single mat is perfect when:
- Your artwork is already bold or detailed
- You’re framing photography or graphic prints
- You want a streamlined, gallery-style presentation
What Is a Double Mat?
A double mat uses two mat boards layered together. The top mat has a slightly larger opening, revealing a thin border (called a “mat reveal”) of the bottom mat. That reveal is where the magic happens.
Benefits of a Double Mat
- Adds depth and dimension
- Creates subtle contrast
- Highlights a specific color in the artwork
- Gives a more traditional or elevated look
- Makes smaller artwork feel more substantial
Double matting is especially effective for:
- Vintage prints
- Watercolors
- Black-and-white photography
- Smaller pieces that need more visual weight
- Sentimental items (concert tickets or documents)
How to Choose Between a Single Mat vs Double Mat
Here’s how to decide:
1. Consider the Style of the Room
single mat keeps it simple
double mat adds boldness
double mat adds dimension
2. Think About Visual Impact
If you want subtle, go single. If you want depth and design, go double.
3. Use Smart Color Matching
One of the biggest advantages of double matting is color play.
With Smart Color Matching, you can pull any color directly from your artwork and use it as the inner mat reveal. This creates cohesion without overpowering the piece.
A double mat gives you that extra layer of customization.
Tips for adding colorful matboards:
- pull a soft blue from a landscape
- highlight warm tones in a vintage print
- add drama with a black bottom mat
Maximum Sizing: How Big Can Your Mat Be?
Sizing matters, especially if you’re framing a larger piece of artwork.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Larger frames can support wider mat borders.
- Extremely large frames may have structural limits depending on frame style.
- Double mats add thickness and layering, which may slightly affect max sizing allowances.
If you’re framing oversized art, photography, or posters, be sure to check frame and mat sizing limits before finalizing your design.
How Large Can The Matboards Go? Our 4-ply mat boards go up to 42″ x 62″ (outer dimensions). Thicker 6-ply, 8-ply, metallic, and patterned mats go up to 32″ x 40″, giving you the freedom to frame large prints, posters, or originals.
Thickness Matters: What Are You Framing?
Not all artwork is flat paper, and matting plays a role in how everything fits.
Consider the following: the thickness of the item you’re framing, the thickness (ply) of your matboard, and the amount of artwork depth your chosen frame can accommodate.
Standard mat boards are typically 4-ply, but can go up to 8-ply. Keep in mind, when layering double mats, you’re effectively adding more depth inside the frame.
If opting for thicker ply matboards, you’ll want to consider:
- If you’re using thick paper, such as watercolor paper
- Float-mounted prints
- Fabric or specialty materials
- Documents on heavier paper stock
- Non-traditional photos, such as Polaroids
If your piece is thicker than standard paper, make sure your frame depth can accommodate:
- the artwork thickness
- one or two mat layers
- foamcore backing
When to Choose a Single Mat
Choose a single mat if:
- You want a clean, modern aesthetic
- You’re working within a budget
- The artwork already has a strong color contrast
- You’re framing large pieces and want to avoid too much layering
- You prefer minimal design
It’s simple. Polished. Timeless.
When to Choose a Double Mat
Choose a double mat if:
- You want to elevate the presentation
- You love subtle color accents
- You’re framing something sentimental
- You want added depth and dimension
- The artwork is small and needs more visual weight
Double mats feel intentional and design-forward.
The Final Verdict on Single Mat vs Double Mat
There’s no wrong answer,
only the look you’re going for.
A single mat offers clarity
and simplicity.
A double mat adds depth
and personality.
The right choice depends on:
- The style of your artwork
- The size of your piece
- The thickness of what you’re framing
- The room it’s going in
- How much design impact do you want
Either way, custom mat board options allow you to design something that fits your art and your space perfectly.
Ready to Design Your Frame With a Mat or Two?
Whether you prefer clean and simple or layered and dimensional, the right mat can transform your artwork from good to gallery-worthy.
Start designing your custom frame and see the difference a single or double mat can make.
FAQ: Single Mat vs Double Mat Picture Framing
Is a double mat better than a single mat?
Not necessarily better — just different. A double mat adds depth and visual interest, while a single mat keeps things clean and modern. The best option depends on your artwork and design goals.
Does double matting make a frame thicker?
Yes. A double mat adds additional layers inside the frame, which increases interior depth slightly. Be sure to account for the thickness of your artwork and backing when selecting your frame.
What size mat border should I choose?
Wider mat borders create a more high-end, gallery look. Smaller borders feel more casual. Larger artwork can typically support wider matting.
Can I use color in a double mat?
Absolutely. Double mats are perfect for adding a subtle pop of color using Smart Color Matching to pull tones directly from your artwork.
Is double matting more expensive?
Yes, because it uses two mat boards instead of one. However, the visual upgrade often makes the investment worthwhile.
