In the world of custom framing, every detail matters—from the selection of materials to the finishing accents that bring a design together. One of the most elegant and often overlooked elements is the fillet (pronounced fill-it), a small decorative moulding that adds depth, dimension, and refinement to your framing package.

At Capricorn Framing, fillets are one of our favorite ways to elevate a piece from beautifully framed to truly exceptional.

What Is a Fillet?

A fillet is a miniature moulding, typically made of wood or metal, that is inserted inside a mat window or placed along the inner edge of a frame. Think of it as a frame within a frame—adding an architectural layer of detail that draws the eye inward and emphasizes the artwork or object being showcased.

Fillets come in a wide range of styles and finishes, from subtle and minimalist to ornate and gilded, allowing for complete customization based on the aesthetic of the artwork and the environment where it will be displayed.

Fillets and Matboards: A Perfect Pair

Fillets are most often used in combination with matboards. When inset into the opening of a mat, a fillet can create a polished, tailored edge that acts like a visual bridge between the mat and the artwork. This pairing offers both contrast and cohesion, allowing us to highlight certain tones in the art or echo the finish of the frame.

While matboards already offer depth and separation from the glazing, adding a fillet can enhance that dimensional quality even further. The result is a layered, dynamic presentation that feels both thoughtful and luxurious.

Accentuating Frames with Fillets

Fillets can also be used along the inner edge of a frame itself, where they serve as a subtle yet effective accent that draws the eye inward and adds a sense of depth and structure. This application helps bridge the transition between the frame and the artwork, creating a layered, finished look. A well-chosen fillet enhances the overall design, making the entire frame package feel more cohesive and elevated.

When to Use a Fillet in Custom Framing

Fillets are especially well-suited for:

• Works on paper that benefit from a formal or gallery-style presentation
• Certificates, maps, or manuscripts that deserve a refined edge
• Classic or traditional interiors where ornamentation complements the decor
• Fabric-wrapped mats, where a fillet can create a structured boundary between the textile and the art
  

There are numerous options because fillets aren’t limited to traditional styles. For example, sleek, narrow fillets in brushed metal finishes or matte black can also be used to complement modern or minimalist framing projects.

Design Considerations

When incorporating a fillet, proportion and balance are key. The width and profile of the fillet must work in harmony with the matboard and frame—never overpowering, but rather accentuating the art. Our designers at Capricorn Framing carefully select fillets that complement the piece without distraction.

Color and finish also play an important role. A gilded fillet can echo the warmth of a gold-leaf frame, while a silver or pewter tone might draw out cool highlights in a black-and-white photograph. Sometimes, a painted or distressed finish adds a touch of character that completes the design story.

A Detail That Makes a Difference

In custom framing, it’s the thoughtful details that set a piece apart. Fillets may be subtle, but their impact is unmistakable. They add structure, elegance, and a sense of intentionality to the design. When paired with expertly chosen matboards, they help create a finished piece that’s both protective and beautifully composed.

Do you have a framing project in mind? Our team of expert custom framers at Capricorn Framing in San Francisco  is here to guide you through all the options—fillets included.

Call us at 415-292-3390 for a consultation or visit our custom framing store located at 3232 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco.