matted canvas

[moranclan]

i am about to purchase a print on canvas, but they tell me it musn't be stretched, but can be matted, i understand stretching but can someone please explain what matted means before i purchase it.

[Clanad]

Quality framing of art prints (or originals for that matter) include matting. This is a border surrounding the edges of the print and add depth to the actual frame. the matting is usually a heavier material and must be non-acidic. Otherwise it will, over time, damage the print. The matting process can involve more than one, or more than several, layers of matting, depending on the size of the print and the intricacy required to dramatize the print.
Here are examples and a thorough discussion:
http://www.ukiyoe-gallery.com/framing.htm

[moranclan]

cheers clanad, that's a great help, i can decide on my purchase now without panicking thanx!