That depends on the artwork being framed.

 

For the typical artwork on paper, these five elements can be found within a good frame:

 

The Picture Frame provides a sound structure within which to house the artwork and any other materials required to frame the artwork to your specifications.

 

Matting is, literally, a flat material (hence the word mat) into which a viewing window is cut, through which the artwork is revealed.  Mats can be single or multiples, depending on how you wish to enhance your artwork.

 

Glazing is the clear material, either glass or acrylic, through which you view the artwork while defending it against airborne contaminants and moisture.

 

Mounting is the method that your artwork is suspended within the frame.