Cutting A Picture Mat

Picture mats are the borders around photographs and pictures that keep them held away from the glass in frames. The mats serve more than one purpose and there is skill needed when cutting photo mats.

Not only does the mat need to be cut exactly to size, each corner needs to be perfectly square. A guillotine can cut the outside edges but anyone who has done any craft knows the difficulty in leaning how to cut photo mats with internal corners and keeping the corners perfect.

Scissors don’t rise to the task. A craft knife might if razor sharp and in the hands of a skilled craftsman, but for ease and for low stress framing it can be easier to see a framer because they know how to cut mat for picture and photo frames to fit the artwork.

When preparing to cut picture mat, remember what size is needed and take into account the subject matter of the photograph or artwork. Does the mat need to cover the borders? Where does the subject end and what exactly will the mat expose and cover, needs to be decided before the mat is cut.

For different artworks there is often a need or choice of using more than one mat. The effect of several mats can really lift a picture or give it a sense of dignity. With pastel artwork the extra distance to the glass can offer more protection for the artwork. As with decoupage or quilling or needlework, a thicker mat or several mats built up to keep the artwork away from the glass can offer more protection.

Once the number and size of the mat is decided on, if the craftsman is going to attempt cutting a picture mat, they will need a few tools.
A new sharp craft knife, Stanley knife or razor blade might suffice. A metal ruler is useful since the craft knife can’t cut it accidentally. Good light and a cutting board on a cleared table are also useful if not vital to cutting a picture mat successfully.

Measuring and marking the mat should be done accurately. Taking time at this stage can prevent heartache later. Beveled edges, available when the craftsman knows how to cut a picture mat professionally, might not be necessary, but they do give an effect that is sometimes beneficial to the overall finish of the framed object. To bevel edges, keep the craft knife at an angle while cutting, and take even more care when working towards the corners.