Black and Cream

• Matting an ancestry photograph in black and white can look awkward due to the weathered look of these old photos. They will no longer contain white, instead the black becomes a dark brown and the white becomes a cream. Black is still a common choice for this type of matting project, though, due to its classic look. Black can be used for the backing of the picture itself, while the cream can be used as an accent color. If the photograph is to be framed, either combination could look elegant.
  
  

Brown, Tan, Cream and Gold

• Aged paper appears to be tan with brown edges, while some part remain light-colored, resembling cream. A matte combination of these colors will produce a strong background for an ancestral photograph. A black-and-white picture that has aged will stand out from a dark brown matte, while the tan and cream can accent the darker tones. A contrast between the matte and the photograph must be maintained in order to secure the highest visibility of the photograph. The same goes for images that are mainly light, a dark matte would be required for optimum display. Any writing or small details can be added in gold for a special touch.
  
  

Navy, Light Blue and Silver

• This color combination also promotes an Old World feel to an album or framed image. It is imperative to use only a few colors to keep the focus on the photograph itself rather than the embellishments surrounding it. The matte can be the dark navy, while the accents can be light blue with silver writing or details. This can be especially useful for old photographs that include water, such as trips or members of the Navy.
  
  

Lace Matte

• Lace as a fabric lends itself to an air of delicacy, beauty and old-fashioned clothing. A matte can be lined with lace and when the photograph is placed in the matte, the lace surrounds it with these ideas. This is especially suitable for pictures of female ancestors as the lace also represents feminine beauty. Any color can be used, but white, cream, black or dusty rose would be most appropriate due to their low tones and ability to blend with other colors.