As framers, we’ve all had that moment when a client walks in with an especially complicated project. Whether it’s a quirky textile or a fragile vintage photograph, it can be difficult not to panic. Getting the matting and framing choices spot on is about making the artwork look amazing and earning your client’s trust.
But no need to stress — these tips on matting and framing cover the essentials for tackling the everyday challenges at the framing counter. From selecting the perfect materials to pricing your work fairly, you’ll find everything you need to succeed.
These insights will help even the most experienced professionals work smarter and deliver results that have customers returning to your store time and time again.
1. Choose the Right Mat Board
The mat board is the guardian of the artwork. Always opt for acid-free mat boards to keep colors fresh and protect the piece. But don't just think of it as protection — it's an opportunity to get creative! Play with colors and textures to add contrast or create a sense of harmony. Bold shades can elevate modern prints, while subtle, neutral tones complement classic paintings.
If framing multiple pieces, encourage your clients to keep the mat colors cohesive. This ties everything together beautifully, ensuring the art remains the star of the show — not the frame.
2. Use Quality Materials
One of our biggest tips on matting and framing is to invest in quality materials. From sturdy frames to secure hanging wire, every choice affects the durability and longevity of the final product.
Offer your customers a variety of finishes and frame styles to suit their tastes. Using a frame visualizer tool allows them to see how their artwork will look with different frames before deciding.
Incorporating a modern point of sale (POS) system into your retail operations makes it easy for customers to choose upgrades like premium glass or custom cuts. A POS system helps you manage inventory, process payments (including credit cards, debit cards, and tap-and-go), and provide an easier checkout experience for your customers.
3. Get the Measurements Right, Every Time
Precision is everything when it comes to matting and framing — after all, a crooked cut or an uneven frame can turn a beautiful piece of art into a disappointment. Arm yourself with professional tools like rulers and cutting machines to make sure every edge is crisp, and every dimension is accurate.
But precision doesn’t stop at the workbench — it also applies to how you manage your inventory. With barcode scanners integrated into your POS software, you’ll breeze through stock management, making sure you’re always ready with the perfect mat sizes and frames when your customers need them. This is the kind of attention to detail that keeps everything running efficiently — making sure your customers leave with frames as flawless as the art they hold.
4. Layer Your Mats for Depth
Adding extra layers of matting to custom frames is like giving your client’s artwork VIP treatment — it’s an easy way to create depth, making the piece feel even more special. This tip for matting and framing works well for larger pieces or those with intricate details.
Get creative with color choices! Soft, complementary shades keep things elegant and understated, while bold contrasts can turn the piece into a real showstopper. You can even mix up the widths of your mat layers for extra flair. Just remember: Quality matters. Always offer archival-grade or museum-quality materials to retain your customers’ art’s wow factor for years.
5. Secure Your Frames Like a Pro
You never want to hand over a frame that could come crashing down the moment it’s hung. Always include sturdy hanging wire and reliable fasteners with every order to avoid frame-fail disasters. Test the strength of these materials beforehand, and consider adding a handy instructional brochure or pamphlet to show your clients the best way to hang their art at home.
To make sure you’re always one step ahead, your POS system can handle this for you by automatically adding hanging wire and fasteners to every work order. This way, you’ll never forget a crucial detail, and your customers will always leave with everything they need to display their art proudly. Little touches like this make all the difference in creating a worry-free experience.
6. Offer Customization Options
Make your frame shop the ultimate destination for clients who crave something special. A simple painted bevel or hand-wrapped fabric mat can make an ordinary frame extraordinary. Quick upgrades like engraved nameplates or UV glass make customers feel they’re getting the royal treatment. And who doesn’t want to feel special?
Not only do these upsells elevate the artwork, they also offer a fantastic opportunity to increase your profit margins and encourage customer loyalty. When customers know they can get a personalized touch, they’re more likely to return, share their positive experiences, and refer friends, all contributing to long-term business growth.
7. Educate Your Clients on Preservation
Smart preservation protects the artwork and your reputation as a framer who values long-term quality. Recommend UV-protective glass as a standard option, especially for valuable pieces or those displayed in sun-drenched spaces. Educate clients on key tips, like keeping artwork out of direct sunlight, avoiding damp environments such as bathrooms, and preventing condensation behind the glass.
Share real examples of damage you’ve encountered to highlight the importance of proper care. Include preservation tips in follow-up emails (which you can send via your CRM feature on your POS system) or print them on care cards to give with finished frames. These thoughtful touches reinforce your expertise and encourage repeat business and referrals. Educating your clients helps them protect their investment and builds a lasting relationship founded on trust and expertise.
Master the Art of Matting and Framing With LifeSaver
Quality frames and mats are the foundation of showcasing your clients’ artwork. By implementing these tips for matting and framing, you can transform the entire presentation and make each piece stand out. When you prioritize quality, offer plenty of customization options, and stay organized with a POS system, you deliver an experience your customers will remember long after they leave your shop.
Whether framing a single masterpiece or managing a steady stream of orders, LifeSaver POS helps you stay on top of it all. From inventory management to payment processing, our software simplifies your workflow and supports your creativity.
Book a free 14-day trial today to discover how LifeSaver POS can elevate your craft and help you build a successful framing business.
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