How To Make A Mat For A Picture Frame

Ever notice how a professionally framed picture just seems to "pop" more than one you've framed yourself? Often, the secret lies in the matting. A well-chosen and expertly cut mat not only elevates the aesthetic of your artwork or photograph, but it also serves a crucial protective function by creating space between the glass and the image, preventing moisture buildup and potential damage over time. It's the unsung hero of picture framing, subtly enhancing your prized possessions and ensuring their longevity.

Creating your own picture frame mat is a surprisingly achievable and rewarding DIY project. You'll gain complete control over the color, texture, and dimensions, allowing you to perfectly complement your artwork and décor. Plus, you'll save money compared to professional framing services, opening up possibilities to frame more of your cherished memories and artistic creations. By mastering the art of mat cutting, you can transform ordinary frames into personalized showcases.

What tools do I need, and what's the best way to measure for a perfect fit?

What type of mat board is best for picture framing?

For preserving artwork and photographs, conservation-grade or museum-grade mat boards are universally recognized as the best choice. These boards are made from 100% cotton rag or purified wood pulp, are acid-free and lignin-free, and buffered with an alkaline reserve (typically calcium carbonate) to neutralize acids that may form over time or migrate from the artwork itself. This ensures long-term protection against discoloration, embrittlement, and deterioration of the framed piece.

While conservation-grade mat boards represent the gold standard, there are other options available depending on budget and the importance of preservation. Buffered, acid-free mat boards made from wood pulp offer a step down in terms of archival quality but are still significantly better than standard paper-based mats that contain harmful acids and lignins. These lower-grade boards are suitable for decorative framing or pieces of less sentimental or monetary value, where long-term preservation isn't the primary concern. It's crucial to avoid mat boards that are simply labeled "acid-free" without further clarification. These mats may be acid-free at the time of manufacture, but they may not be lignin-free or buffered, meaning they can still degrade over time and potentially harm the artwork. Always look for the terms "conservation," "museum," "100% cotton rag," or "acid-free and lignin-free" to ensure you're selecting a mat board that will provide adequate protection for your cherished pictures. The extra cost of conservation-grade materials is a worthwhile investment in preserving your memories and valuable artwork.

How do I accurately measure for cutting a picture frame mat?

Accurately measuring for a picture frame mat involves determining the size of the artwork, the desired overlap, and the inner and outer dimensions of the mat. First, precisely measure the artwork. Then, decide on the desired overlap (typically 1/8" to 1/4" on each side). Finally, measure the inside dimensions of the frame itself to determine the outer dimensions of the mat.

To elaborate, begin by meticulously measuring your artwork (photo, print, etc.). Use a ruler or, preferably, a metal measuring tape for greater accuracy. Ensure you measure the visible part of the image, not any excess border that might be hidden behind the mat. Next, determine the amount of overlap you want the mat to have onto your artwork. This overlap prevents the artwork from falling through the opening and creates a clean, professional look. A standard overlap is typically 1/8" to 1/4" on all sides of the artwork, meaning the mat opening will be slightly smaller than the artwork. Add twice the desired overlap to each dimension of your artwork to determine the inner dimensions of the mat. Finally, measure the inside dimensions of the picture frame where the mat will sit. This measurement determines the outer dimensions of your mat. It is critical that the outer dimensions of the mat are slightly smaller than the frame's inner dimensions to allow for easy insertion and removal. If the frame has retaining clips, also account for the space they occupy. A snug, but not overly tight, fit is ideal. Be sure to double-check all measurements before cutting to avoid costly mistakes.

What's the best way to cut a clean, beveled edge on a mat?

The best way to cut a clean, beveled edge on a mat is by using a specialized mat cutter with a sharp, angled blade. A quality mat cutter ensures consistent angle and depth, preventing overcuts and ragged edges. It's crucial to use a fresh blade for each mat or even each opening, especially when working with thicker or more delicate mat boards.

Mat cutters come in two main types: handheld and table-top. Handheld cutters are more affordable and portable, but require a steady hand and can be less precise. Table-top cutters offer greater stability and control, especially for larger mats or multiple openings. Regardless of the type, the key is to apply consistent pressure and smoothly glide the cutter along the guide rail. Avoid stopping and starting mid-cut, as this can create visible imperfections.

Before cutting, always measure and mark the desired opening on the back of the mat board. Use a sharp pencil and a ruler to create precise guidelines. It's a good practice to slightly overlap the corners when marking to ensure they are completely cut through. Consider practicing on scrap mat board to get a feel for the cutter and blade before working on your final piece. Always remember safety first; keep fingers clear of the blade's path and store the cutter safely when not in use.

How do I center the picture within the mat opening?

Centering a picture in a mat opening requires precise measurements and careful alignment. You'll need to calculate the difference between the picture's dimensions and the mat opening's dimensions, divide those differences in half, and use those values to position the picture perfectly within the opening before securing it.

To elaborate, start by measuring both the height and width of your picture and the height and width of the mat opening. For each dimension (height and width), subtract the picture's measurement from the mat opening's measurement. This gives you the total "extra space" around the picture for that dimension. Divide each of these "extra space" values by two. The resulting numbers represent how much space should be visible between the picture's edge and the mat opening's edge on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right). Carefully align the picture on the back of the mat, using these calculated distances as a guide. You can use a ruler and light pencil marks to ensure accurate placement. Once you are satisfied with the centering, use acid-free tape or mounting corners to secure the picture to the *back* of the mat. Avoid applying adhesive directly to the picture's surface. Recheck the centering from the front before fully securing the picture.

What adhesive should I use to attach the photo to the mat?

For attaching a photo to a mat board, use acid-free and lignin-free adhesive. These adhesives prevent deterioration of the photograph and the mat board over time, preserving the artwork. Photo corners are a great option to avoid applying adhesive directly to the photograph.

Choosing the right adhesive is crucial for the longevity of your framed artwork. Avoid using standard craft glues, tapes, or spray adhesives as these often contain acids and other chemicals that can yellow the photograph, stain the mat board, and eventually degrade the image itself. Look for adhesives specifically labelled as "archival quality," "acid-free," and "lignin-free." Archival quality means the product has been tested and meets standards for long-term preservation.

Several archival-safe options are available:

How do I prevent the mat from warping or buckling over time?

To prevent your picture frame mat from warping or buckling, use acid-free and lignin-free matboard, ensure proper mounting of the artwork, and control the humidity levels in the environment where the frame is displayed. These practices minimize the matboard's tendency to absorb moisture and expand unevenly, which is the primary cause of warping.

Selecting high-quality matboard is the first and most critical step. Acid and lignin, naturally present in wood-based products, degrade over time and release harmful chemicals that not only damage the artwork but also weaken the matboard's structure, making it more susceptible to warping. Acid-free and lignin-free matboards are manufactured to resist this degradation. Look for matboards specifically labeled as "archival quality" or "conservation grade" for the best protection. Proper mounting techniques are also essential. Securely attach the artwork to the backing board using methods that distribute tension evenly. Avoid using excessive amounts of adhesive or pressure on any single area of the mat. Dry mounting techniques, while sometimes used, can increase the risk of warping if not done carefully. Instead, consider archival-quality photo corners or linen tape to hinge the artwork to the backing board. This allows for some movement without stressing the matboard. Finally, controlling the environment can significantly extend the lifespan of your framed artwork. High humidity levels cause matboards to absorb moisture and expand, while low humidity causes them to dry out and contract. These fluctuations can lead to warping and buckling. Aim to maintain a consistent humidity level between 40% and 60% in the room where the framed piece is displayed. Avoid placing the frame in direct sunlight or near sources of heat or moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Can I create a double mat with different colors?

Yes, absolutely! Creating a double mat with different colors is a fantastic way to add visual interest and enhance the artwork within your picture frame.

A double mat essentially uses two layers of mat board, with the top layer having a larger opening that reveals a border of the bottom layer. This offers a perfect opportunity to introduce a contrasting or complementary color that draws the eye and highlights specific aspects of the artwork. The color combination can be chosen to match elements within the picture, complement the room's decor, or simply provide a pleasing aesthetic contrast. When selecting colors, consider the artwork's palette and the overall mood you want to create. A neutral top mat with a brighter, bolder bottom mat can create a pop of color, while two more subtle colors can add depth and sophistication. Experimenting with different combinations before committing to a specific pairing is highly recommended. You can hold different mat board samples next to your artwork to visualize the final result and ensure a harmonious and visually appealing presentation.

And that's all there is to it! You've now got a beautiful, custom mat to perfectly showcase your favorite photo or artwork. Thanks so much for following along, and we hope you'll come back soon for more fun and easy DIY projects!