Cutting A Picture Mat

Cutting a picture mat is often done in the art of picture framing for both protection and decoration. A picture mat can enhance the look of a framed piece and may be used with a fillet or liner that is made from wooden moulding and cloth. Cutting a picture mat usually involves cutting a very thin piece. A typical picture mat made in America is about 1/16th of an inch. Cutting a picture mat in this way allows for double, triple or quadruple matting. Picture mats can also be carved to feature artwork designs. This cut picture mat process is usually done by hand and involves cutting away a small portion of the top layer, which is the decorative layer. Cutting a picture mat in this way makes the carved design appear to be the same color of mat's core. Common colors used include white, black, green, red, yellow and blue. Mats are made of paper-based material and so they can withstand minor additions, such as ink and paint and even a small metal plate. Cloth-covered mats can also support heavier objects like pins, cloth patches and flags. But what you really want to know is how to cut a picture mat. Here are some directions.

How To Cut Photo Mats

How do you start cutting photo mats? Begin by deciding how much of a mat border you want to leave around the picture. You should leave about three inches on the sides and top and about four inches for the bottom. Decide how much of the picture you want to show through the window. Then cut a piece of mat board to fit your picture frame. Measure the interior of the frame itself and then mark the dimensions on the back of the mat. Put the mat on a cutting board for the easiest cut. Put a straight edge along one of the lines, hold it, and then run a cutter along the edge. Now measure and mark the back of the mat, drawing out the window that you plan to cut out. Cut the window from the back with the cutter, placing the straight edge along the line and running down the edge. Check to see if the bevel is slanted out of the way from the window you're cutting so that it will be visible from the right side. Stop at the window's corner, careful not to overshoot the cut. Finish the cutting with a sharp craftsmans knife.

More Help On How To Cut Mats For Pictures

Don't forget these three important mat-cutting tips. First, practice on scraps until you become comfortable. Second, don't let your finger go over the edge of the ruler – mat cutters are very sharp! Finally, if you can't seem to get the hang of it ask a framing shop to cut the window for you. Cutting a picture mat can be difficult but a little practice makes all the difference.