How to Matte and Frame a Picture

Beautiful pictures need a great frame to truly express the character of the work. Professional matting and framing tends to run on the expensive side and being able to do this project on your own is a real time and money saver.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Matte board
• Frame
• Spray adhesive
• Mounting hardware

1. Measure the piece of work or picture for its correct size. Use a ruler or yardstick to get a proper measurement and write these numbers down.
2. Purchase a piece of foam board or matting material at a craft or frame store. Ask the retailer to cut the material to the size of the frame desired. Be certain the opening in the matte board will accommodate the artwork.
3. Buy a frame with the precise measurements of the piece of matte material. It's crucial that the frame is the exact measurement of the matte board's perimeter and not the picture itself. The picture will measure precisely to the opening in the matte board.
4. Place the image within the opening of the matte board and affix with an archival spray mount adhesive. Spray a light coating on the inside matte surface and just a small amount on the edge of the picture itself. Press into a level position.
5. Hang the picture with the appropriate hanging or mounting hardware depending on the size of the matte and frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a stud finder to locate a wall stud to mount the framed image. Drywall may crack or fail if the picture is too heavy.