How to Cut Mat Board for Frame
Cutting mat boards for picture frames yourself can save a great deal of money. The process is simple but requires focus and attention to detail to avoid mistakes and accidents. Using a common sense approach will be rewarded with an accurately cut board and a beautifully displayed piece of artwork. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Large work table
- Mat board
- 2 sheets of tag board
- Utility knife
- 36 inch metal ruler
- Tape measure
- Sharp pencil
Instructions
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Cut Mat Board for a Frame
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1
Gather the dimensions of the mat board first. Lay the frame face down on the work surface. Measure the inside dimensions of the recessed area of the frame with a tape measure for both width and height. Mark the measurements on a notepad and subtract 1/8 inch from each dimension.
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2
Set the frame aside and lay the mat board face down with the plain, smooth, white side facing up. Take the metal ruler and begin marking the measurements both width and height on the board. Always double check the measurements for accuracy before starting to cut.
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3
Lay the metal ruler along one of the pencil lines and pick up the utility knife placing the tip of the blade against the edge of the ruler at the top edge of the board. Hold the ruler firmly with the left hand making sure it will not slip. Pull the knife slowly down along the ruler's edge. Don't try to cut all the way through the board on the first cut. Make two or three cuts to get a clean-cut edge. Repeat to cut along the second pencil line.
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4
Check the two cut edges. If they are rough, sand them with 100 grit sandpaper. Place your mat board inside the frame to check for proper fit.
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Tips & Warnings
Wood frames expand and contract due to heat and humidity. Mat board must be cut slightly smaller than the recessed opening at the back of the frame to allow for this. If this is not done, the mat board will buckle when the wood contracts.
Two layers of tag board should be laid down on the work surface before beginning to cut the mat board to protect the surface from knife cuts.
Always keep a fresh, sharp blade in the utility knife. Replace often if doing a lot of cuts.
Keep the pencil sharp when making measurements. A 1/16 inch error due to a worn down pencil lead can make a big difference in the mat board fitting the frame properly.
Utility knives are sharp and can harm. Keep them out of the way of children and pets.
