How to Cut Mat With Artist Signature

Cutting a mat with an artist's signature is a simple process.

Cutting a mat with an artist's signature can be a tricky process if the signature is in an unusual location or outside of the actual picture. The easiest way to reveal the signature is to cut a new mat with a mat cutter. However, you can also cut out a square in an existing mat to reveal the signature. Measuring properly is the most important step for cutting a mat. Once the measuring is complete and accurate, the actual cutting process is simple.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Artist mat
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Mat cutter
• T square
• Photo frame

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the picture or image that has the artist's signature on it. Make sure to measure the picture from the edges of the signature. Some images have the picture in a small area and the signature entirely outside of the actual image. Measure from the signature to ensure you don't accidentally cut it out of the frame.

2. Choose a mat that is one or more inches larger than your image measurements. Choose a standard picture size for the mat to make it easier to frame. For example, 8-by-10, 11-by-14 and 16-by-20 inches are some of the standard medium-sized frame sizes. You can find mats much larger, 30-by-40 inches or larger, if necessary.

3. Draw a square or rectangle shape onto the mat with a ruler and pencil in the dimensions of the picture you've measured. Make sure to measure exactly, so that you do not end up covering some part of the signature.

4. Place the mat onto the mat cutter. Place the T square along one side of the rectangle or square inside the mat. Place the cutting edge in the corner and cut down the side of the mat. Repeat for the other three sides to cut out the inside of the mat.

5. Place the image under the mat and fit it into a frame.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also cut out an opening for a signature into an existing mat. Simply measure the size of the signature, draw a small rectangle around the mat where you want to expose the signature and cut out the small box. When you replace the mat and picture the signature will now be visible.

References

• Art Supply: How to Cut a Mat
• Michael Fox Studio: Matting Options