How to Create Decorative Picture Mats

Wallpaper, stationery and maps make great mats to surround your favorite photographs. Or paint or paste shapes onto a colored mat for a personalized look.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Brushes
• Colored Cardboard
• Paints
• Photographs
• Picture Frames
• Scissors
• Scissors
• Pencils
• Markers
• Pencils
• Two-sided Tape
• Photo Mats
• Rulers
• Pencils
• Photographs
• Markers

1. Begin with a standard or custom-made mat - whichever fits your photo.

2. Trace the mat on the back of the paper you have chosen to cover your mat.

3. Cut out the paper to fit over your mat.

4. Secure the paper to your mat with double-sided tape or rubber cement.

Tips & Warnings

• In the absence of an actual mat, trace the frame you intend to use on cardboard and use the cardboard as the mat.
• Glue may bubble up underneath the decorative mat. As it dries, press the bubbles gently toward the mat's edge if you can do so without ruining you decorations.