Ply

Ply

Ply refers to the number of layers of material that are laminated or stacked together to create an overall thickness and structural stability. Ply is a common specification in mat board, plywood, and other sheet goods used in picture framing, woodworking, and art mounting.

Applications in Picture Framing

• Mat Boards: Ply determines the thickness of mat boards, such as 4-ply, 8-ply, or 16-ply, affecting both the visual depth and rigidity of the mat.
• Plywood: Multiple plies of wood veneer are laminated together to increase strength and reduce warping in frame construction or backing supports.
• Backing Materials: Ply layers may be used to adjust the fit of artwork in a frame or to raise a float-mounted piece to the desired height.

Considerations

• More plies generally increase thickness, rigidity, and durability.
• In mat boards, ply can affect bevel cutting, window reveal, and overall aesthetics.
• Ply orientation in wood products can influence strength along certain grain directions.

Related Terms

• Overmat
• 8 Ply
• Mat Window
• Double Mat