Framing Glossary Backing - stiff material, generally pieces of cardboard, placed behind the mounting board to provide additional support. Frame - the structure made from wood, metal or plastic molding that supports and contains all the other framing elements. Glass - the see-through material used to cover and protect the photograph. It is generally flat. There are different types of glass used, glare or non-glare, each of which has its own disadvantages and advantages. Clear plastic is sometimes used in less-expensive frames. Mat - a flat piece of cardboard or other material placed between the photograph and the frame that serves as a frame-within-a-frame, serving as a border between the picture and the frame. The mat also separates the picture from direct contact with the glass. The small air space prevents moisture build-up and the development of mold and fungus. More than one mat may be used with a picture. A mat can be plain or decorated, colored or pure white. Molding - any of various long, narrow surfaces that, when accurately cut, are assembled to form the frame. Molding is often ornamental and frequently has a modeled profile. There are five basic shapes of molding – flat, angular, curved, multiple-curved and compound, which is a combination of curves and angles. Mounting Board - the board that holds the picture firmly against the mat. It can be attached to your photograph using a number of methods. Often, the first step in framing is to have the picture mounted to ensure its stiffness. Dust Seals - Paper, usually brown, stretched across the back of the frame to prevent dirt and insects from getting in to damage the photograph. Hangers - the hardware (nuts, bolts, screws and wires) used in attaching the frame to the wall.

Framing Glossary Backing - stiff material, generally pieces of cardboard, placed behind the mounting board to provide additional support. Frame - the structure made from wood, metal or plastic molding that supports and contains all the other framing elements. Glass - the see-through material used to cover and protect the photograph. It is generally flat. There are different types of glass used, glare or non-glare, each of which has its own disadvantages and advantages. Clear plastic is sometimes used in less-expensive frames. Mat - a flat piece of cardboard or other material placed between the photograph and the frame that serves as a frame-within-a-frame, serving as a border between the picture and the frame. The mat also separates the picture from direct contact with the glass. The small air space prevents moisture build-up and the development of mold and fungus. More than one mat may be used with a picture. A mat can be plain or decorated, colored or pure white. Molding - any of various long, narrow surfaces that, when accurately cut, are assembled to form the frame. Molding is often ornamental and frequently has a modeled profile. There are five basic shapes of molding – flat, angular, curved, multiple-curved and compound, which is a combination of curves and angles. Mounting Board - the board that holds the picture firmly against the mat. It can be attached to your photograph using a number of methods. Often, the first step in framing is to have the picture mounted to ensure its stiffness. Dust Seals - Paper, usually brown, stretched across the back of the frame to prevent dirt and insects from getting in to damage the photograph. Hangers - the hardware (nuts, bolts, screws and wires) used in attaching the frame to the wall.