How to Cut Double Mats--Instructions

Framing your own prints, photographs and watercolors is easy enough. But cutting your own mats makes them look even better, and a double mat creates interior framing that sets up an image for optimal viewing.

Things You'll Need

• 2 mats in contrasting colors that are larger than the image being matted Frame X-acto knife Ruler Cutting surface Pencil and paper Protractor

Instructions

Instructions

1. With your ruler, measure the square or rectangular perimeter of the image you want to have framed by the mat. Write down the measurements. Decide how much space you want between the first and second mat. The first mat surrounds the perimeter of your image. The second mat outlines the first mat. There can be 1/8 of an inch difference on all sides, or 1/4 of an inch, or 1/2 of an inch, or even 1 inch difference. The amount of exposed space in this band of mat is up to you. However, it's a good rule of thumb to remember that a small band is appropriate for smaller frames, and a larger band looks good in larger frames. When you have chosen the difference between the first and the second mat, calculate the perimeter of the second mat.

2. Cut both mats to fit inside your final frame. You can use your ruler to draw the perimeter of each of your mat pieces and cut with an X-acto knife, or you can use an industrial paper cutter, found in many offices and mailing facilities. You can also purchase mats in preset sizes at art supply stores.

3. To cut your first mat, use a ruler and pencil to draw the square or rectangle to be cut into your mat. Double check your measurements on your image to be framed against the shape you have drawn on the mat. Lay your ruler along one of the center shape's sides and insert your X-acto knife at a 45 degree angle, with the knife tip pointing toward the interior of the square or rectangle. Slowly cut along the drawn line, using the ruler as your guide to keep the cut straight and your angle steady throughout the cut. Repeat with the other four sides. Gently push out the cut shape with your fingers from the back. If it sticks, this is usually because the corners have not been completely cut. Ease the knife into those corners and gently cut the shape away.

4. Hold your cut mat against your image to confirm that you have created the right shape and size to frame your image. If you need it to be larger, cut it to fit. Once your first mat is cut to your satisfaction, compare the final measurements of your cut mat to those of your second mat. Confirm that each side in the second mat is longer in equal proportions to the sides in your first mat. Once your measurements are confirmed, cut your second mat using the same techniques used to cut your first mat.

5. Lay your first mat over your image. Lay your second mat over your first mat. Confirm that the second mat frames the first mat, and that the first mat frames your image in the way you want it to. Once everything is confirmed to be cut and framed to your satisfaction, place all three pieces into your final frame and secure the frame backing according to the directions that came with your frame.