So, you’ve got this awesome photo, maybe from your trip to that quirky art supply store in **Asheville**, or a print you snagged from **Etsy**, and you’re ready to frame it. But the standard mats just aren’t doing it justice, right? The good news is, learning how to make a mat for a picture frame is way easier than you think, and way more satisfying than buying one off the shelf. All you need are some basic tools, like a **mat cutter**, and a little inspiration from your favorite framing pros, like **Fran DeGiacomo**, and you’ll be creating custom mats that perfectly complement your artwork in no time!
Unlocking the Secrets to Your Own DIY Picture Frame Mat
Ever looked at a beautifully framed picture and thought, “Wow, that mat really makes it pop!”? Guess what? You can totally create that magic yourself! It’s way easier than you think, and this guide will walk you through every step. We’re focusing on how to make a mat for a picture frame that’s both gorgeous and budget-friendly.
Think of the mat as the unsung hero of your picture frame. It provides breathing room for your artwork, protects it from the glass, and adds a touch of elegance. Plus, creating your own allows you to customize it perfectly to your style and the dimensions of your frame and picture. Ready to dive in?
Step 1: Gathering Your Supplies – The Treasure Hunt!
Before we start building, let’s gather our arsenal of crafty goodness. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything listed; you can always improvise a little! It’s all about having fun and learning.
- Mat Board: This is the foundation! You can find it at most craft stores. Choose a color that complements your artwork. White and off-white are always safe bets, but don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Cutting Tools:
- Mat Cutter: This is the ideal tool, as it creates a clean, beveled edge. Don’t fret if you don’t have one! A sharp utility knife and a steady hand will do.
- Straight Edge: A metal ruler or T-square is crucial for making precise cuts.
- Measuring Tools: A ruler or measuring tape. Precision is key here!
- Pencil: For marking your measurements.
- Cutting Surface: Protect your table with a self-healing cutting mat or a piece of cardboard.
- Optional but Helpful:
- Corner Joining Tool: For perfectly crisp corners (if you’re using a regular knife).
- Spray Adhesive or Archival Tape: To secure your artwork to the mat board.
Step 2: Measuring Like a Pro (It’s Easier Than You Think!)
Okay, this is where the magic happens. Accurate measurements are essential for a professional-looking mat. Think of it as tailoring a suit – it needs to fit just right!
- Measure Your Picture: Get the exact height and width of the artwork you want to frame.
- Measure the Inside of Your Frame: This is the maximum size your mat can be.
- Calculate the Mat Width: This is the space between your picture and the frame. A common rule of thumb is 2-3 inches on all sides, but feel free to adjust to your liking! Just make sure the mat doesn’t cover too much of the artwork, and ensure your picture is still visible within the frame!
- Determine the Opening Size: Subtract the mat width *twice* from both the height and width of the inside of the frame. For example: If your frame opening is 8×10 and you want a 2-inch mat, the opening should be 4×6. The reason for this subtraction is because you need to account for the mat on all sides of the frame. Remember that you’ll typically want the opening to *slightly* overlap the picture so that it doesn’t fall through the opening. This is usually about 1/4 inch on each side.
Step 3: Cutting with Confidence!
Now for the slightly nerve-wracking part – the cutting! But don’t worry, we’ll break it down to make it as simple as possible. Remember to take your time and focus on each cut. Practicing on a scrap piece of mat board is always a good idea!
This table summarizes the cutting process:
| Step | Action | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Mark the Outer Dimensions | Using your measurements, mark the outer edges of your mat board. | Use a pencil and ruler for accurate lines. |
| 2. Cut the Outer Rectangle | Carefully cut along the outer lines to create the overall shape of the mat. | Use a mat cutter or a sharp utility knife with a straight edge. Move slowly and carefully. |
| 3. Mark the Inner Dimensions | Using the opening measurements, mark the inner rectangle where your picture will show. | Double-check your measurements before marking! |
| 4. Cut the Inner Rectangle (The Trickiest Part!) | Carefully cut along the inner lines to create the opening. | With a Mat Cutter: Follow the instructions for your specific cutter. Usually, you’ll start and stop each cut slightly beyond the corners to ensure a clean cut. With a Utility Knife: Score the lines first, then make progressively deeper cuts until you cut all the way through. Again, take your time. |
| 5. Clean Up the Edges | Inspect the edges and trim away any loose fibers or uneven areas. | A sharp blade and a steady hand are key here. |
Step 4: Finishing Touches – Making it Shine!
You’ve done the hard part! Now it’s time to add those finishing touches that will make your DIY picture frame mat look professionally made.
- Attach Your Artwork: Use archival tape or spray adhesive to carefully mount your picture behind the mat. Make sure it’s centered and straight.
- Dust It Off: Use a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris from the mat.
- Frame It Up! Place your matted picture into the frame and admire your handiwork!
See? You did it! You’ve successfully crafted your own beautiful picture frame mat. Now go forth and frame all the things!
FAQs: DIY Picture Frame Mat
What materials do I really need to make a picture frame mat?
The essentials are mat board (acid-free is best), a sharp utility knife or mat cutter, a metal ruler, a cutting surface, and a pencil. For accurate measurements, a T-square is helpful. Knowing how to make a mat for a picture frame starts with having the right tools.
How much smaller should the mat opening be than my picture?
The opening should be slightly smaller, typically overlapping by about 1/4 inch on each side of the image. This ensures your picture doesn’t fall through. When learning how to make a mat for a picture frame, accurate measurements are crucial here.
What’s the best way to get a clean, professional-looking cut?
Use a sharp blade and apply consistent pressure. Overlap your cuts at each corner, and practice on scrap mat board first. This is key for achieving a clean edge when you make a mat for a picture frame.
Can I use regular cardboard instead of mat board?
While you can, it’s not recommended. Regular cardboard is often acidic and can damage your artwork over time. Acid-free mat board is archival quality and protects your picture. If you want to learn how to make a mat for a picture frame, mat board is the best material to learn with.
So, grab your supplies and give it a shot! Learning how to make a mat for a picture frame is easier than you think, and adds that perfect personal touch to your artwork. Happy crafting!