Matting your calligraphy project

When I design a piece of calligraphy--for myself, as a gift, or by request--I like to think about where it will be seen, at what distance, in what light, and by whom.  That often includes taking the frame into consideration from the very beginning, and sometimes even more important, the mat.  Think about the color, texture, size of mat, and relative size of opening, width of frame; be sure to take your client into the planning too. 

Here is a Cliffs Notes version of matting.  There's a lot more to learn and try out, but it's important for you to have a simple plan while you work on the design.