How to Measure a Mat for a Picture
Hanging your own photographs on the wall is just one way to add a personal touch to your home. To make that picture last, it is important to properly mat the photo before framing it. A mat will protect the picture from attaching to the glass of the frame, as well as add an enhancement to the picture itself. While there are many different ways to frame a photo, there is really one way to measure a picture for a mat and basic framing. Here are a few tips to help.
Instructions
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Measure the width of the photo. The width is the horizontal measurement of your picture. Place a ruler or tape measure at one edge of the photo. Make a note of where the photo's opposite edge hits the ruler. For this project - the width of the photo is 8 inches.
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Measure the height of the photo. The height is the vertical measurement of the picture. Place a ruler or tape measure at the top edge of the photo and make a note of where the photo's bottom edge hits the ruler. For this project - the height of the photo is 10 inches.
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Calculate the mat opening. The "window" of the mat is the actual measurements of the photo itself. In the case of this project, the photo itself measures 8 inches by 10 inches. This then is the measurement for the window of the mat.
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Decide on the frame size. If you are matting and framing 1 simple picture the general rule is to go up one size. For example - in this project we have a standard 8x10 inch photograph. The frame should be 11x14 inches. This means that the outside of the mat should also be 11x14 inches. If, however, you are matting more than 1 photo to go in a single frame, a multiple-window mat can be used. Be sure to allow at least 1/4 inch between photos to give definition to each picture.
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Tips & Warnings
To properly mat a photo, there should be slightly more mat on the bottom than the top. Recommended amount is 1/4 to 1/2 inch more on the bottom than on the top.
- Photo Credit main photo from www.redimat.com, illustrations by author
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Comments
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Actually, the window of an 8x10 photo or piece of art would be 7 3/4 x 9 3/4. You need to leave at least 1/8 inch overlap of the mat so the photo doesn't pop out or fall through. In other words, measure the width, subtract 1/4 inch; measure the height, subtract 1/4 inch -- and you have your window size.
