Mat a Watercolor Painting

Watercolors require more protection than acrylic or oils before matting or framing. Here are some basic steps to get you started.

Steps

Protect the actual surface of your watercolor by spraying a protective sealant on the surface of your painting. This will protect the paper itself.
- Use an acid-free sealant spray formulated for use with water colors, and be aware that some of the older sprays tend to yellow your paints somewhat.
Mount your painting on a firm backing. You can find several varieties of backing board at most arts and crafts supply stores. Many are acid free and self adhesive.
- Use mulberry hinges and wheat paste for the mounting. The hinges should be slightly lighter than the paper. In case of a problem it is better for the hinge to tear and not the painting.
- Attach the hinges only at the top of the watercolor paper to the backing, using only acid free material such as Foam Core. These hinges can be removed with water in the future if necessary. When framing and matting one does not want to do any harm and it should all be reversible.
Measure and cut your backing material to the frame size.
Measure and cut your matting material to the size and shape desired.
Measure and cut your frame glass or plastic to size for the frame.
- Always use museum glass or UV protective glazing, also available in acrylic glazing.
Sandwich your glass, matting and painting into the frame and secure with frame tacks.
Display proudly.

Select a mat that coordinates with the work. Mats should not be darker than the darkest color or lighter than the lightest color. Take a close look at the painting and decide what are the 3 most dominant colors in the painting. Use these colors in your selection. *Use at least two mats; one mat will make it look less expensive. When using two mats try to use complimentary colors for the strongest interest. Using a lighter mat on the outside and the darker on inside will help to direct the eye to the painting.
- Note that in many watercolor competitions, they require a white mat, so it is better to double mat in white.
Paper is a natural organic material and will be moving. As the humidity changes, the paper will absorb moisture and dry out. So the paper should be free to move in the frame and not be attached to all sides as this could cause it to wrinkle or even tear.
Currently there are several types of matting material
- Acid Free Buffered or what is called regular Matboard should last about 7 years before the buffering gradually turns acid.
- Museum quality made with 100% rag should last 25 to 50 years.

FACTS Standard Guide - Minimum Preservation Paper, Mat & Mount Board, PMMB-2000.