Things You'll Need
Art
Cutting Mats
Mat Cutters
Paper And Pencils
X-Acto Knives
Rulers
How to Cut a Picture Frame Mat. A mat is what gives art a finished look. It creates a "frame" inside the frame. Here are a few easy steps to help you frame your photo to give it a more professional and polished look.
Tip
Practice on scraps until you get the feel of it. The handheld mat cutter called a Dexter (less than $20) will give you a beveled edge and, with a little practice, a fine window. If you're going to be doing this regularly, a professional-quality cutter ($300-$800) is worth its weight in gold. "Weight" the bottom of the mat - that is, there should be more mat visible below the art than above it. If all else fails, have a framing shop cut the window for you.
Warning
Don't let your finger go over the edge of the ruler - mat cutters are sharp.
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