Artists ask me all the time, “Where can I get good mats cut?” or “What’s a good resource for framing materials?” Rather than expound on the merits of making your own (I’ll save that for another post), I’ll just list a few reliable time-tested sources.

Mats and Backing

1. mat.cutter.com 888-275-2464 (1-888-ASK-BING) Bing or Nancy. Pre-cut mats and custom sizes
2. framedestination.com 877-537-2637 (1-877-5FRAMES) Pre-cut mats and custom sizes. Website allows online ordering of custom sizes.
3. dixiematting.com 205-755-7558 custom sizes

Frame Mouldings – Retail

1. American Frame 888-628-3833 (retail)
2. Frame Destination 877-537-2637 (1-877-5FRAMES) Complete kits and Custom sizes

Frame Mouldings – Wholesale

1. TC Moulding 800-735-302 (MN) or 800-632-4842 (MI)
2. Decor Moulding 800-937-1055 (NY)
3. Studio Moulding 800-262-4174 (CA)

Framing supplies – Wholesale & Retail

1. United Manufacturers – 800-645-7260 (Wholesale, requires a reseller id)
2. Talas – 212-219-0770 Archival and Bookbinding supplies (Retail)
3. Light Impressions – 800-828-6216  (Retail)
4. Jerry’s Art-a-rama – 800-827-8478 (Retail)
5. Dick Blick 800-828-4548 (Retail)

Glass & Plexiglass

1. Try looking for a distributor locally. In the Detroit metropolitan area, Circle Glass & TC Moulding can provide standard and custom cut TruVue glass by the case. Try not to use hardware store glass — UV or Reflection Control glass will help your work last longer. I like the Tru-Vue Conservation Clear, as it balances cost and effectiveness. Some folks like Museum Glass, but it’s a bit more expensive.
2. For a Tru-Vue distributor near you, click here.
3. For UV and standard plexiglas, you can order singles from American Frame, or find a distributor. AIN Plastic sells by the square foot in major metro areas.

Archival Mounting and Presentation services

1. Laumont – 212-245-2113 – A very high-end digital printing and mounting company in NYC