Protect your artwork in a frame.
A mat does more than just frame your work of art. It also allows a small amount of space between the work and the glazing material. The air space prevents the art from sticking to the glazing and prevents condensation that forms on the inside of the glazing from getting onto the artwork. Learn to cut mats for framing and fill your walls with your favorite drawings, photographs and watercolors. Employ methods and tools used by frame shops to ensure a professional-looking mat job.
Instructions
1. Trace the outline of the frame's glazing on the mat to delineate the outside dimensions of the mat. Cut out the mat with a utility knife.
2. Determine the size of the opening. Subtract the height and width of the artwork from the height and width of the outside dimensions of the mat. Divide those amounts in half to calculate how much space will be between the edges of the artwork and the frame when the artwork is centered in the frame. Add 1/8 of an inch to those amounts so the inside opening will overlap the edges of the artwork slightly.
3. Measure in from the outside edges of the mat, using the previous measurements, and make two opposing marks for each edge. Line up a metal ruler with the marks to draw the inside opening on the mat.
4. Place the mat face down on a larger, scrap piece of mat and slide them under the guide rail of a mat cutter. Run the blade along the first drawn edge of the inside opening. Rotate the mat and cut each additional edge.
5. Inspect the cut edge of the mat opening and smooth down any imperfections using a bone folder.
