Whether you decide to get your art professionally framed or do it yourself, here are some helpful guidelines:

If framing yourself, before you begin make sure hands are clean and dry.

Most framed drawings look best when mat is plain and off white in color. Pure white can appear too stark. I suggest getting mats professionally cut unless you’re skilled doing so. The mat and all in direct contact with art surface should be archival acid free quality.

Drawings can be “float matted” with about 1/4” space between art and mat (see photo) or come directly up to edge or slightly inside it. Make sure not to inadvertently cover artist signature.

Mat border thickness surrounding art should be generous enough to appear art has enough “breathing space”.

Personally I feel frames shouldn’t be noticeable but blend in as much as possible. This allows the art to be the “main attraction”. With fine art, dark, thick, heavy, shiny, colorful, and ornate frames should be avoided.

Regarding what to put art under, glass is definitely better than plexiglass. There’s a product called “museum glass” that’s worth the extra money. If doesn’t fit your budget, regular glass is fine.

Before putting everything together, make sure glass is clear of debris and smudges. If not already done, take photo of art before put under glass.

Finally, display and store art where it won’t be exposed to direct sunlight, high humidity, or extreme temperatures.

Enjoy!