Mat board is simply good quality cardboard that is used in framing artwork, in particular prints, drawings and other works on paper. Mat board sits partially over the artwork and forms the border surrounding the artwork. 

There is a wide selection of mat board available, various forms vary according to aesthetics of the finished framed artwork. Such as colored mat board, the thickness, black core, textured etc. Other forms of mat board are important depending on the item you are framing and the desired quality and longevity of the framing itself such as museum quality, acid-free, lignin-free, 100% cotton, fade & bleed resistant . Mat board of this quality is often required for conservation framing.

Mat board is cut at a 45 degree angle to give depth to the presented artwork. This is done by a Mat Board Cutter.