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Frame moulding is the term used to describe material that is cut and joined to be assembled into a picture frame. Hand carved picture frames, gold picture frames and metal picture frames are among the thousands of different frame styles available. Wood and metal are the materials most commonly used to make moulding and are offered in a variety of stains, glazes and finishes. In addition to custom framing flat artwork and three-dimensional objects such as framing sports memorabilia, these mouldings are also used to create unique photo frames, decorative framed mirrors and ready made movie poster frames.

Matting is the term used to describe the window-cut material placed around an image within a frame. It serves as a spacer allowing the artwork to expand and contract with changes in humidity. Matting comes in a variety of colors and is chosen to complement the color and design of the artwork. It makes the overall size of the finished piece larger. Matting can be made from a variety of materials: paper, cardboard, fibrous materials, etc. Using an archival quality material will offer protection, ensuring that your art will last for years to come. Archival matting is either made from acid-free cotton fibers or a newer product called Artcare. Artcare archival mattboards, with patented MicroChamber technology, actively protects art from the damaging effects of time and from common pollutants that yellow, fade and damage your art. Artcare slows this deterioration and helps extend the life of your art.

Glazing is a general term used to describe the transparent material covering the artwork as a means of protection, such a glass. There are many variations including regular clear picture glass, anti-reflective (chemically coated to reduce reflection), non-glare (acid etched to help reduce glare), and conservation glass (specially formulated to help filter the damaging effects of UV light). There are also acrylic glazing products that are lighter in weight and come in the non-glare and UV filtering varieties. Glass is easier to clean and more scratch resistant than acrylic products.

Mounting is a process by which artwork is attached to a board. Dry mounting, wet mounting and spray mounting are ways to prevent the artwork from bubbling or waving in the frame. Artwork of any value is not generally mounted since it can greatly affect any resale value. Museum mounting, commonly known as hinging, is when the art is attached with paper hinges to the board. The art hangs free, allowing it to expand or contract with humidity. Dry and wet mountings are permanent processes and not recommended for archival materials.

A key component of professional picture framing is the ability to preserve the original condition of the items, both at the time they are being framed and in the event that the framing, mounting and matting is removed at a later date. Preservation picture framing, also know as conservation picture framing and museum quality framing, uses materials and techniques that help protect against the effects of sunlight and pollutants that yellow, fade and damage the art. Archival matting, hinging and UV protective glazing (glass or acrylic) are most commonly used to increase the longevity of framed items.