The edge is part of the image.

A clean-cut edge

A straight edge gives the sheet a precise boundary. It can sit behind a window mat or remain visible as part of a restrained presentation. It is a useful starting point when the image, rather than the character of the paper, should carry the attention.

Our deckled-edge service

PrintMaker Studio offers deckled-edge finishing to bring an irregular, tactile boundary to suitable prints. It can be especially expressive when the whole sheet is visible and there is space around the edge.

A deckled edge made as a finishing treatment is different from an edge formed during papermaking. Neither is automatically better: the question is which appearance suits the image and the sheet. We’ll discuss the paper, the border and the intended presentation before confirming the finish.

Ask to see an example before deciding. The effect can vary with the paper and should be judged as a physical detail. An illustration cannot tell you how the fibres, thickness and shadows will feel in person.

A white border is unprinted paper around the image. A mat is a separate material placed around it within a frame. They may look similar from a distance, but they create different relationships between the image, the sheet and the frame.

For example, a 12 × 16 inch image with a one-inch border on all sides needs a 14 × 18 inch sheet. If you order a 12 × 16 inch sheet instead, the image must be smaller to leave a border. We’ll confirm the image area and outside dimensions before production.

Leave decisions open until the frame is considered

Think about whether the border should be equal on every side, allow room for a signature or work with a particular mat opening. With a deckled finish, discuss the visible border and final edge treatment together rather than placing important details close to the trim.

If you already own a frame, send its measurements and a photograph. An advertised frame size alone may not tell us the visible opening or the space available for the complete framing package.

Window mat

A window mat presents the image through an opening and can cover the outside edges of the sheet. If a deckled edge is hidden behind the mat, much of its character disappears from view.

Float presentation

A float presentation reveals the sheet’s edges against a backing. This is worth discussing when the paper itself is part of the work. The visible space around the sheet, backing colour and shadow become design choices.

For works on paper, framing needs to keep the artwork away from the glazing. A mat or suitable spacers can provide separation. The support and attachment method should suit the object, with future removal considered for valuable or sensitive work.

Panel mounting

Mounting a print to a panel gives a different result from supporting a loose sheet in a frame. Ask us about Dibond and other current mounting options, how the print will be attached, and whether that choice suits the work’s intended life.

For an irreplaceable original or a valuable existing print, tell us before discussing any treatment. We can talk through the presentation and identify when a conservator’s advice is appropriate.

Keep fingers away from the printed surface and support the sheet while moving it. Avoid rubbing one print against another. Canson advises careful handling, suitable gloves and allowing prints to dry before storage or framing; coatings can be vulnerable to marks and abrasion.

Let us know if the print is travelling straight to another framer, going into a portfolio or being shipped to a collector. The finish, handling and packing should be planned together. We can discuss fulfilment as part of the project.

Before we finish your print

• Confirm the image size and the outside sheet size.
• Choose whether the paper edge will be visible.
• Discuss paper suitability and the desired deckled appearance.
• Confirm the framing or mounting plan and destination.
• Approve the proposed work and quote before production.