Step 1 - How to Cut Mats
Adding a colour border (the mat) around your artwork enhances the picture and provides a restful area between the image and the frame. The colour and size of the mat board must be decided first, as this will determine the overall dimensions of the frame.
You start by calculating the external size of the mat by following the steps in fig. 1.
To cut the mat use a good quality bevel mat cutter and ruler. FrameCo has several
cutting systems to suit various budgets and skill levels, including the Mat MasterT 660 for the hobbyists, to the Mat MasterT 860B or 1060B for the keen home framer. Go to Mat Cutters.
Mark the borders to be cut on the back of the mat board - see diagrams.
Make sure the mat will cover the edges of the artwork, by subtracting approx. 3mm - 1/8" from the image size (length & width). Cut the mat following the instructions for your mat cutter. Attach the picture to the mat using 2 small pieces of acid free tape on the top edge only.
FrameCo has an extensive range of high quality mat board to help you decide on the perfect colour to compliment your artwork.
Choosing the right colour . . .
Always select a colour for the mount that is represented in the picture. On a Autumn landscape choosing a brown mat will make the picture look very different than if you chose an amber or shade of red. Go to Mat Board Colours.
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Fig 1. Length=A+B+C,Width=D+E+F
Measure the actual picture area you wish to frame by using the Mat MasterT Rule. Calculate the external mat size.
Mark out on the back of the mat with pencil lines, the desired border width - 6cm is ideal.
To begin cutting, align the start/stop marker on the cutting head just behind the start (or bottom) border line.
Press the blade into the board and push the cutter away from you up towards the finish border line.
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