How to Choose the Right Passe-Partout for Your Art Print

Quick Answer

To choose the right passe-partout, start by measuring your art print and deciding on a mat width that complements its size—typically 2 to 4 inches. Select a mat color that either contrasts or harmonizes with the artwork, and consider a conservation-grade mat to protect your print. Always test with a sample before cutting.

A passe-partout, also known as a mat, is more than a decorative border—it creates visual breathing room and protects your art print from touching the glass. Choosing the right one can elevate a simple print into a gallery-worthy piece, but the options can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through the key decisions: size, color, material, and framing compatibility.

Whether you're matting a new art print from Hôtel Magique or an older archive edition, the principles are the same. We'll cover practical steps and common pitfalls, so you can frame your artwork with confidence.

Measure Your Art Print and Frame

Before you even think about color or material, you need accurate measurements. Measure the exact dimensions of your art print, including any white borders. Then measure the interior dimensions of your frame. The passe-partout will sit between the print and the frame, so it must be slightly larger than the print to allow for a border.

A common mistake is buying a pre-cut mat that is too small. Always account for the overlap: the mat should cover a few millimeters of the print's edge to hold it securely. If you're framing a standard size like A3, many ready-made mats are available, but custom cutting is better for non-standard prints.

• Use a ruler or tape measure for precision, and note both the print and frame dimensions.
• Consider the mat width: for prints up to 11x14 inches, a 2-inch mat is common; for larger prints, a 3-4 inch mat creates a balanced look.

Choose the Mat Width

The mat width affects the visual weight and focus of your artwork. A wider mat gives a more formal, gallery-like presentation, while a narrower mat feels modern and casual. As a rule of thumb, the mat should be about 1.5 to 2 times the width of the frame's molding. For a 2-inch frame, a 3-4 inch mat works well.

If your art print is small, a wide mat can overwhelm it. Conversely, a large print with a thin mat may look cramped. For example, an A3 print (11.7 x 16.5 inches) often looks best with a 2.5 to 3-inch mat. Always test by placing the print on a sample mat before committing.

• Common mistake: choosing a mat that is too narrow for a large frame, making the print look lost.
• Checkpoint: Lay the mat over the print and step back to see if the proportions feel right.

Select the Mat Color

The mat color should complement the artwork without competing with it. White and off-white mats are safe choices that work with almost any print, especially those with light backgrounds. For bold, colorful prints, a white mat provides a clean contrast. For black-and-white photography, a black or dark gray mat can add drama.

Consider the room where the art will hang. If your walls are white, a white mat creates a seamless look; a colored mat can add a pop of contrast. Neutral tones like cream, beige, or light gray are versatile. Avoid bright colors that clash with the artwork. Hôtel Magique prints often feature vibrant colors, so a simple white mat lets the art shine.

• Common mistake: choosing a mat color that matches the wall exactly, making the art blend in too much.
• Tip: Order sample mats or use a mat board color chart to see how the color interacts with your print.

Pick the Right Material and Quality

Passe-partout mats come in different materials: paper, cotton, and conservation-grade boards. Standard paper mats are affordable but can yellow over time. Cotton or alpha-cellulose mats are acid-free and archival, protecting your print from deterioration. For valuable or sentimental prints, invest in conservation-grade matting.

Also consider the color of the core (the beveled edge). White core is standard, but you can choose a colored core to add a subtle accent. Ensure the mat is cut cleanly with a sharp blade to avoid rough edges. Hôtel Magique art prints are printed on high-quality paper, so a conservation-grade mat will help preserve them for years.

• Common mistake: using a non-archival mat that causes 'mat burn' (yellowing) over time.
• Checkpoint: Look for 'acid-free' or 'archival' on the mat board packaging.

Consider the Frame and Glazing

The passe-partout works with the frame and glass to protect your print. Ensure the mat fits snugly inside the frame, with enough room for the print and backing board. Use glazing (glass or acrylic) with UV protection to prevent fading. If you're using a standard frame, make sure the mat is cut to the exact interior dimensions.

Some frames come with a pre-cut mat, but these may not fit your print perfectly. Custom framing gives you more control. If you're ordering an art print from Hôtel Magique, note that some prints are available framed with a choice of frame finishes—this can simplify the process, as the mat is included.

• Common mistake: forgetting to account for the thickness of the mat when choosing a frame, causing the glass to press on the art.
• Tip: Use a frame with a deeper rabbet (the groove that holds the glass and backing) to accommodate a thick mat.

Step-by-Step Passe-Partout Selection

1. Measure your print and frame: Use a ruler to measure the exact dimensions of your art print and the interior of your frame. Note any borders on the print. Checkpoint: Ensure the mat will overlap the print by at least 3mm to hold it securely.
2. Decide on mat width: Choose a mat width that balances the print and frame. For prints up to 11x14 inches, 2 inches is standard; for larger, go 3-4 inches. Common mistake: picking a too-narrow mat for a large frame. Test with a sample.
3. Select mat color: Pick a color that complements the artwork and room. White, off-white, and neutral tones are safe; avoid matching the wall exactly. Checkpoint: Place the mat over the print and view from a distance to see the effect.
4. Choose material and quality: Opt for acid-free, conservation-grade mat board to protect your print from yellowing and acid damage. Common mistake: using cheap paper mats that cause mat burn. Look for 'archival' labels.
5. Verify frame compatibility: Ensure the mat fits the frame's interior and that the frame has enough depth for the mat, print, and backing. Checkpoint: Test the assembly before finalizing; consider custom framing if needed.

Art Prints from Hôtel Magique

• Pool Lines Art Print: Hôtel Magique art prints are printed in the Netherlands on 250 and 300 gsm FSC and PEFC-certified paper Biotop paper. Size A3 is available unframed or framed with our signature matt black aluminum, natural white aluminum, oak wood, or slightly darker mahogany wood finish frames. Knowing the paper quality and available frame options helps you decide whether to buy a framed version or mat it yourself. The 300 gsm paper is sturdy enough for matting without extra backing.
• A Splash of Holiday Art Print – Archive Sale Edition: This is an Archived Edition, printed on the premium paper stock we used for years — slightly less matte than the paper in our current main collection. Hôtel Magique art prints are printed in the Netherlands on 300 gsm FSC and PEFC-certified paper. The slightly less matte finish of the archive edition may affect how colors appear under glass; a mat with a white core can help maintain contrast. The 300 gsm weight is suitable for matting.

Choosing the right passe-partout is a blend of measurement, aesthetics, and material quality. By following these steps, you'll protect your art print and enhance its presentation. Whether you're framing a new Hôtel Magique print or an archive edition, a well-chosen mat makes all the difference.