Choosing the Right Picture Mounts for Your Frames: A Complete Guide

When it comes to displaying photos, artwork, or prints, the right picture mount can make all the difference. More than just a decorative border, mounts help protect your image, enhance its appearance, and ensure a professional finish. Whether you're framing a cherished family photo or a fine art print, understanding different types of mounts for pictures and photo frames will elevate your presentation.

What Are Picture Mounts and Why Do They Matter?

A picture mount, also known as a mat or matboard, is the border placed between the image and the frame. It serves both aesthetic and protective functions. Mounts prevent direct contact between the image and the glazing (glass or acrylic), which reduces the risk of condensation damage, discoloration, and warping over time.

From galleries to home displays, mounts and frames work together to draw attention to the central image while complementing the surrounding décor. They add visual breathing space, helping the subject stand out rather than blend into the edges of the frame.

Different Types of Mounts for Picture Frames

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the right mount for photo frames. Here are several common types:

Single Mounts: A clean and minimal choice for most uses, providing one color and one layer between the frame and the picture.
Double Mounts: These add a secondary, thinner border underneath the main one—great for adding subtle contrast or emphasizing colors in the image.
Multi-Aperture Mounts: Ideal for photo collages, these have multiple openings in a single mat board to display several pictures in one frame.
Conservation Mounts: Made from acid-free materials, these are essential for preserving valuable artwork or photographs over the long term.

Each mount photo frame choice should consider the artwork’s tone, size, and intended environment.

Personal Experience: Framing a Childhood Memory

Last year, I decided to frame a faded black-and-white photo of my grandfather in his military uniform. I initially bought a standard frame, but the photo seemed lost inside it. After visiting a local framing shop, I was introduced to a framing mount with a charcoal outer layer and a thin ivory inner border. The difference was striking—it added depth, focus, and a timeless touch. That simple upgrade turned a basic frame into a cherished centerpiece in our hallway.

Matching Mounts with Your Frame Style

When choosing mounts for frames, consider the materials and colors. A sleek metal frame pairs well with neutral or white mounts, creating a contemporary look. For wooden frames, earthy or cream-toned mounts for picture frames add warmth and softness.

Don't overlook painting mounts for artwork on canvas or paper. These mounts often feature wider borders and bolder contrasts to balance more complex compositions.

Tips for Selecting the Right Mount Size

Standard Sizes: If you’re working with standard frame sizes, a photo frame mount should be easy to match and replace.
Custom Cuts: For unusual sizes or vintage photos, consider getting mounts custom-cut to ensure a perfect fit and alignment.
Proportions Matter: Too narrow a mount can make the frame feel cramped, while overly wide mounts may overpower the image. A good rule of thumb is to leave equal space around the image, with a slight weight toward the bottom for balance.

Mounts in the UK: Sourcing Quality Options

There are many reliable sources for mounts UK wide—both online and in-store. Some shops even allow you to visualize your artwork with different mounts and frames combinations before purchase. When possible, choose mountboards that are lignin-free and pH-neutral to avoid long-term yellowing or damage to your photos.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right picture photo mounts is about more than visual appeal—it's about preserving memories and presenting them with care. Whether you're framing a graduation photo, a landscape print, or a family portrait, the right frame mount transforms your display from ordinary to gallery-worthy. Take the time to experiment with colors, layers, and formats to find what truly enhances your image.

By understanding the importance of mounts—and learning from real experiences—you’ll be better equipped to showcase your favorite moments in their best light.