How to Cut Double Mats

Double mats add an expensive, professional look to framed artwork.

A double mat allows you to use more colors when framing your picture to create a complimentary interior border that will cause your picture to stand out. Double mats also give a finished, professional look to your artwork. If you make your own mats, you can customize colors and border size to create the perfect setting for your creativity. Mat board is inexpensive and can be found at any craft store.

Things You'll Need

• 2 mat boards
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Box cutter or razor knife
• Rubber cement or double sided tape

Instructions

1. Choose two different colors of mat board that will compliment the picture. Place the darker color, which will be the bottom mat, face down on a flat work surface. Use a ruler to measure 2 1/4 inches inward from each edge of the mat. Use a pencil to draw a line down each side of the mat to mark the measurement.

2. Cut the bottom mat using a razor knife. Position the ruler along one pencil line and insert the knife into the mat where two of the pencil lines intersect. Pull the knife down the line slowly and carefully, using the side of the ruler to steady the cut and ensure the line is straight. Stop cutting when you reach the next point where the lines intersect. Repeat this process along the three remaining sides of the mat. Pop out the cut piece of mat to create the window.

3. Place the lighter colored mat, or top mat, face down on the work surface. Use the ruler and pencil to measure 2 inches inward from each edge and and mark lines in the same manner as before. Cut along the lines with the razor knife, using the ruler as a guide. Do not cut past the point where the lines intersect. Pop out the cut piece of mat and discard.

4. Apply rubber cement or double sided tape to the back of the top mat. Place the bottom mat face down on top of the top mat. Line up all edges before pressing the mats together. Rub your hands over the surface of the mat while pushing down gently to secure the mats together. Turn the mat over to check your work. There should be an even 1/4 inch border of the bottom mat visible through the window.

Tips & Warnings

• Cut slowly to prevent the razor knife from slipping and injuring you or damaging the mat.

References

• Frameco: Cut a Double Mat
• ArtSupply.com: How to Cut a Basic Mat
• Picture Framing Magazine: Double Mats