How to Make Your Own Matting From Fabric for Picture Frames

Matting sets off a photograph or painting from the frame and adds interest. Using decorative fabric to mat your favorite pictures is one way to add a punch of color to your decor. Or unify a grouping of pictures of various sizes and shapes by using a similar matting for them all. You can use almost any fabric for your picture matting and change it whenever you like.

Things You'll Need

• Decorative fabric
• Picture mat
• Spray adhesive
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Remove the picture from the frame, along with the original mat. Set the picture aside.

2. Cut a piece of fabric 2 inches larger on all sides than the original mat. Spray the original mat with adhesive and smooth the fabric onto the mat.

3. Cut an X in the fabric over the opening in the mat. Extend the X to the corners of the mat. Trim and fold under the fabric so that it wraps around the mat. Adhere with more of the spray adhesive.

4. Fold the fabric around the outside of the mat, trimming excess fabric if necessary. Adhere with adhesive.

5. Replace the mat and picture in the frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in the fumes from the adhesive.

References

• Fabric Mats
• Batik Mat Frame

Resources

• The Long Thread: Fabric Mat