DIY Picture Mats: Enhance & Protect Photos

Picture frames need mats for enhancement, and creating DIY picture matting becomes a rewarding project. A picture mat is a border; it exists between the picture and the frame. Mat board determines the color and texture of the mat, and it affects the visual appearance of a picture. DIY picture matting protects pictures from damage because the mat prevents the picture from touching the glass.

Okay, picture this: you’ve just finished a masterpiece. Maybe it’s a watercolor that sings with vibrant hues, a photograph that captures a fleeting moment in time, or even a child’s crayon drawing bursting with unbridled creativity. You’re proud, and rightly so! But hold on – before you slap it on the fridge with a magnet, let’s talk about giving it the royal treatment it deserves: matting.

Think of a mat as the VIP section for your artwork. It’s that perfectly measured border between your art and the frame, and it does so much more than just look pretty. A well-chosen mat is like a spotlight, drawing the viewer’s eye to the art itself and making those colors pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July.

But wait, there’s more! A mat also acts as a bodyguard, creating a safe space between the artwork and the glazing (that’s the fancy word for glass or acrylic). This little gap is crucial because it prevents moisture buildup and protects your art from sticking to the glass—a disaster we definitely want to avoid! Plus, a mat adds a touch of professionalism that instantly elevates your piece from “cute” to “gallery-worthy.”

So, what’s on the agenda today? We’re going to dive into the wonderful world of matting and uncover the secrets to transforming your artwork into a show-stopping display. We’ll be covering:

Materials: The essential tools and supplies you’ll need to get started, with a focus on archival quality for long-lasting preservation.
Techniques: The step-by-step methods for measuring, cutting, and mounting your artwork like a pro.
Design Considerations: The artistic choices that will help you select the perfect colors, widths, and styles to complement your unique artwork.

Contents

Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Materials for Matting Success

So, you’re ready to take your art to the next level? Awesome! But before you start waving that mat cutter around like a light saber, let’s make sure you’ve got the right gear. Think of this as your artist’s utility belt – packed with everything you need to transform your masterpiece from “meh” to “magnificent!” We’re not just talking about slapping any old cardboard around your precious creations; we’re diving into the world of quality and archival properties. Trust me, your future self (and your artwork) will thank you.

Mat Board: The Foundation of Your Presentation

Mat board is more than just a pretty frame; it’s the backbone of your presentation. It’s the first thing people see (after the art, of course!), and it can make or break the whole look. Let’s break down your options:

Conservation/Museum Grade: This is the Rolls Royce of mat boards. We’re talking 100% cotton or alpha-cellulose, which basically means it’s acid-free and designed to last centuries. Seriously, this is what museums use to protect priceless artifacts. If you’ve got a piece of art you truly treasure (or plan to sell for millions someday!), this is the way to go.
Acid-Free: Think of this as the sensible sedan. It’s a step up from your standard, run-of-the-mill mat board, and it’ll do a much better job of protecting your artwork from yellowing and deterioration. It’s the responsible choice for artwork you want to keep looking its best for years to come.
Decorative: Now we’re talking fun! Colored core, fabric-covered, textured – the possibilities are endless. These are great for adding a little personality and flair to your presentation. Just make sure the core is still acid-free so you aren’t inadvertently damaging your artwork.

Key Takeaway: Always, always, ALWAYS use acid-free materials! I can’t stress this enough. Acid is your artwork’s worst enemy, slowly eating away at it over time. Don’t let your beautiful creations crumble into dust!

Backing Boards: Providing Support and Protection

Your artwork needs a solid foundation, and that’s where backing boards come in. Think of them as the strong, silent types that keep everything stable and secure.

Foam Board: This is your go-to for a rigid, lightweight backing. Acid-free foam board is a must for archival purposes. Regular foam board? Skip it! It can damage your art over time.
Adhesives: Now, here’s where things get serious. Never, ever use standard tape or glue! I’m talking about the stuff you use to wrap presents or stick macaroni to construction paper. Those adhesives are packed with acid that will wreak havoc on your artwork. Instead, opt for archival-quality options like acid-free linen tape or archival mounting corners.

Glazing: Shielding Your Art

Time to put up the defenses! Glazing is your artwork’s shield against the harsh realities of the world – dust, UV light, curious fingers, you name it.

Glass/Acrylic: Both get the job done, but each has its pros and cons. Glass offers unmatched clarity and scratch resistance. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, which is great if you’re a bit clumsy (like me!).
UV Protection: If you want to really protect your artwork from fading, consider glazing with UV-filtering properties. It’s like sunscreen for your art!

Precision Tools: Achieving Professional Results

Alright, time to get down to business! These tools are your secret weapons for creating perfectly matted masterpieces.

Mat Cutter: This is the holy grail of matting tools. A good mat cutter (like those from Logan Graphics) will give you clean, precise cuts every time. Straight cutters are for basic cuts, while bevel cutters create those fancy angled edges.
Straight Edge/Ruler: You’ll need a long, accurate straight edge (preferably metal) to guide your mat cutter. Don’t skimp on this – a wobbly ruler will lead to wobbly cuts!
Cutting Mat: Protect your work surface with a self-healing cutting mat. This will save your table (and your sanity!).
Pencil: A sharp, light pencil (2H or harder) is perfect for marking measurements on the back of the mat board.
Eraser: A soft, kneaded eraser is essential for removing pencil marks without damaging the mat board.
Measuring Tape: An accurate measuring tape or ruler is a must for determining artwork and mat dimensions.
Optional but Recommended:
- Corner Clamp: This is a lifesaver for assembling frames square.
- Dust Brush: Keep your surfaces clean with a soft dust brush.

Mastering the Techniques: Cutting, Centering, and Mounting Your Artwork

Alright, buckle up, art enthusiasts! Now comes the fun part where we transform those carefully chosen materials into a perfectly matted masterpiece. Think of this as the ‘artistic surgery’ – a little nerve-wracking but incredibly rewarding when done right. We’re diving deep into the techniques that separate a ‘meh’ mat from a ‘WOW’ mat. Get ready to get your hands a little dirty (but hopefully not your artwork!).

Precision Measuring: The Key to a Perfect Fit

First things first: measure twice, cut once! I can’t stress this enough. If your measurements are off, you might as well use your expensive mat board as kindling! Grab your trusty measuring tape (or ruler if you’re feeling old-school) and note down the exact height and width of your artwork.

Now, for the mat opening, you’ll want it slightly smaller than your artwork. Why? Because we need an overlap to actually hold the darn thing in place! A good rule of thumb is to subtract about 1/4 inch from both the height and width. This ensures the mat covers the edges just enough to keep it snug without hiding any crucial details.

And for the mat width itself, here’s where the ‘golden ratio’ comes in. Don’t let the fancy name scare you; it’s just a guideline for creating visually pleasing proportions. A common approach is to aim for a mat width that’s roughly 2-3 inches for smaller pieces and proportionally wider for larger artworks. Play around with different widths and see what tickles your artistic fancy!

Cutting with Confidence: Achieving Clean, Beveled Edges

Time to unleash your inner ninja with the mat cutter! But before you go all ‘Edward Scissorhands’ on that poor mat board, let’s cover some basics.

Setting the Blade Depth: This is crucial. Too shallow, and you’ll be sawing away forever. Too deep, and you’ll slice through the backing. Experiment on a scrap piece until you get a clean, consistent cut with a single pass.
Positioning the Straight Edge: This is your guide, your North Star! Make sure it’s firmly in place and aligned with your cutting lines. Any wobble here, and you’ll end up with wonky edges.
Making Smooth, Continuous Cuts: Smooth is the name of the game! Apply even pressure and glide the mat cutter along the straight edge in one fluid motion. No stopping, no starting, just pure, unadulterated cutting bliss!

Safety First! Remember, mat cutters are sharp and unforgiving. Always keep your fingers well away from the blade, use a firm grip, and replace dull blades religiously. A sharp blade is a safe blade (and a clean-cutting blade!).

Centering for Visual Harmony: Achieving Perfect Symmetry

Okay, now that you have your perfectly cut mat, it’s time to play ‘art alignment specialist’. Centering the artwork within the mat opening is essential for visual balance. A wonky center can throw off the entire composition and make your masterpiece look like it’s about to slide off the wall.

To achieve perfect symmetry, measure and mark the center points of both the artwork and the mat opening. Then, use a T-square (or a reliable ruler) to align those center points vertically and horizontally. A little tweaking here can make a world of difference!

Mounting Methods: Securing Your Artwork Safely

Finally, the grand finale: mounting your artwork! This is where you’ll attach your artwork to the backing board, ensuring it stays snug and secure behind that beautiful mat.

You’ve got two main options here:

Archival Tape: Use acid-free linen tape to create a hinge along the top edge of your artwork. This allows the artwork to hang freely while keeping it firmly attached to the backing board.
Mounting Corners: These little gems are like tiny pockets that hold the corners of your artwork without any adhesive touching the surface. They’re perfect for delicate pieces that you don’t want to risk damaging with tape.

Whichever method you choose, always use archival-quality materials. Remember, we’re preserving art here, not just slapping it together!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully conquered the art of matting. Now go forth, create, and display your artwork with pride!

Design Principles: Choosing the Right Colors, Widths, and Styles

So, you’ve got your materials, you’ve mastered the cutting techniques, and now you’re staring at a rainbow of mat board options, scratching your head? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! This is where the art of design comes into play. Choosing the right colors, widths, and styles isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a visual symphony that makes your artwork sing. Let’s dive into some key principles to help you make those crucial decisions.

Color Theory: Creating Visual Harmony

Ever wonder why some color combinations just feel right? That’s color theory in action! Understanding how colors interact can be a game-changer when selecting a mat.

Complementary Colors: Think blue and orange, red and green, or yellow and purple. These pairs sit opposite each other on the color wheel and create a vibrant, energetic contrast. If your artwork features a lot of blues, an orange mat could really make it pop!
Analogous Colors: These are colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, like blue, blue-green, and green. Using analogous colors creates a harmonious and soothing effect. It’s like a gentle hug for your eyes.
Neutral Colors: White, black, gray, and even some muted browns are your classic, go-to options. They provide a clean, sophisticated backdrop that lets the artwork take center stage. You really can’t go wrong with these, especially if you want a timeless look.

Remember: Always consider the artwork’s existing colors, style, and overall mood. A bright, playful piece might benefit from a bolder mat color, while a somber, reflective artwork may call for something more subdued.

Proportion and Balance: Achieving Visual Harmony

Imagine a teeter-totter. That’s kind of how proportion and balance work in matting and framing. You want everything to feel, well, balanced! The ratio between the artwork, mat, and frame should be visually pleasing and harmonious.

Think about it: a tiny artwork swallowed by a massive mat might look a bit lost and lonely. Conversely, a large artwork crammed into a narrow mat could feel suffocated. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where everything feels just right. A wider mat can create a more dramatic, gallery-like effect, while a narrower mat can create a more intimate, personal feel. Experiment and see what resonates with you!

Mat Width: Guiding the Eye

The width of your mat can have a HUGE impact on how the viewer perceives the artwork. It’s like directing traffic for the eyes!

Wider Mats: These tend to draw more attention to the mat itself. They can create a sense of importance and formality, making the artwork feel more significant. Larger artwork often benefits from wider mats, as they provide a visual “breathing room.”
Narrower Mats: These keep the focus squarely on the artwork. They create a more intimate and immediate connection between the viewer and the art. Smaller, more delicate pieces often look great with narrower mats.

Pro-Tip: There’s no hard and fast rule, but a good starting point is to consider the size of your artwork. For larger pieces, try a mat width that’s roughly 1/4 to 1/3 of the shortest side of the artwork. For smaller pieces, a narrower mat width (around 2-3 inches) might be more appropriate.

Artwork Style: Matching the Mat to the Art

Just like you wouldn’t wear a ballgown to a baseball game, you wouldn’t pair a wildly ornate mat with a minimalist artwork. The style of your art should definitely influence your mat choices.

Contemporary Art: Often looks fantastic with simple, minimalist mats in neutral colors. Clean lines and understated elegance are key here.
Traditional Art: May benefit from more ornate or textured mats. Think fabric-covered mats, mats with a colored core, or even mats with subtle patterns.

Frame Style: Completing the Look

The frame is the final piece of the puzzle, the cherry on top, the grand finale! It should complement both the artwork and the mat, tying everything together into a cohesive and visually appealing package.

Consider the frame’s color, material, and profile. A sleek, metal frame might be perfect for a modern piece, while a rustic, wooden frame could be ideal for a more traditional artwork. Most importantly, make sure the frame enhances the overall presentation, rather than detracting from it. It should whisper “Wow!” instead of shouting “Look at me!”.

Expanding Your Knowledge: Related Concepts in Art Preservation

So, you’ve mastered the art of the mat, eh? But hold your horses, budding art curator! Matting is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to preserving your precious creations. Let’s zoom out and look at the bigger picture, shall we? Because a masterpiece deserves more than just a pretty border; it deserves a long and happy life!

Framing: The Final Touch

Think of framing as the superhero cape to your artwork’s already awesome outfit (the mat). It’s the final touch that not only protects your art from the harsh realities of the world (dust bunnies, curious fingers, rogue splashes of coffee), but also elevates its visual appeal.

Now, we’re not just talking about slapping any old frame on there. Choosing a frame is an art form in itself! You want something that complements the artwork, not clashes with it. Consider the frame’s style, color, material, and profile. Is it a sleek, modern metal frame for a contemporary piece? Or an ornate, gilded wood frame for a classic painting?

Most importantly, ensure the frame is structurally sound. No one wants their artwork to fall out and shatter because of a flimsy frame. A well-chosen frame is like a supportive friend, always there to have your art’s back (literally!).

Acid-Free Materials: Protecting Your Investment

Imagine building a house with subpar materials. It might look okay at first, but sooner or later, things are going to start falling apart. The same goes for framing and matting! Using acid-containing materials is like slowly poisoning your artwork. Over time, they’ll cause yellowing, fading, and deterioration. Not cool!

That’s why acid-free materials are your best friends. They’re like a protective shield, preventing harmful chemical reactions that can damage your art. So, splurge on the acid-free mat board, backing, and tape. Your future self (and your artwork) will thank you. Think of it as an investment in your art’s longevity!

Archival Quality: Ensuring Longevity

“Archival Quality” are those magic words that every artist and art collector should know by heart. It’s not enough for something to be just acid-free; it needs to be archival quality to truly stand the test of time.

Archival quality means that the materials are chemically stable and inert. They won’t react with the artwork or degrade over time. It’s like putting your art in a time capsule, ensuring that future generations can appreciate it in all its glory.

So, whether it’s mat board, tape, adhesives, or framing materials, always look for that “archival quality” label. It’s your guarantee that you’re giving your artwork the best possible chance to survive and thrive for generations to come. In short, be obsessed with preservation! Your art deserves it, and, honestly, so do you.

Trusted Brands: Quality You Can Rely On

Alright, art aficionados! You’ve got your materials, you’ve honed your techniques, and you’re practically a matting maestro. But even the most skilled artist needs reliable tools and materials. That’s where trusted brands come in. Think of them as your trusty sidekicks in the quest for perfectly matted masterpieces. Using quality supplies can make a huge difference in your end result and the longevity of your work. You don’t want to put all that effort into a project, only to have it ruined by cheap materials, right? So, let’s explore some of the rockstars in the art supply world:

Logan Graphics: Innovation in Mat Cutting

Let’s talk about Logan Graphics. These folks are practically synonymous with mat cutting. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of the framing world, offering a wide array of mat cutters and framing tools for everyone from the casual hobbyist to the seasoned pro. What makes them special? Well, they’re constantly pushing the envelope with new designs and features. They’re not just making tools; they’re innovating. Their dedication to quality and ease of use is something to admire. Plus, Logan Graphics provides a variety of resources to help you learn how to use their products effectively.

Fletcher-Terry: Precision Cutting Solutions

Next up, we have Fletcher-Terry. These guys are all about precision. When accuracy is paramount, Fletcher-Terry delivers. They’re known for producing incredibly durable and precise cutting tools specifically designed for the framing industry. Their focus is laser-sharp accuracy, ensuring you get clean, professional results every time. If you’re looking for tools that can withstand heavy use and maintain their accuracy over time, Fletcher-Terry should definitely be on your radar. They may not be as widely known as Logan, but within the professional framing community, they’re highly respected for their quality and reliability.

Other Reputable Brands

Of course, the world of art supplies extends beyond just mat cutters! There are many other brands that are known for their commitment to quality. Here are a couple of quick shout-outs:

Crescent Cardboard: When it comes to matboards, Crescent Cardboard is a name you can trust. They offer a wide range of colors, textures, and grades, including archival-quality options to protect your artwork for years to come.
3M: For adhesives, 3M has a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable products. Look for their acid-free tapes and mounting products to ensure your artwork is securely mounted without causing any damage.

Remember, investing in good-quality materials from trusted brands can make all the difference in the longevity and appearance of your artwork. So, do your research, read reviews, and choose the brands that align with your needs and budget. Happy matting!

So, there you have it! Picture matting doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little practice and some simple tools, you can create custom mats that perfectly complement your photos and artwork. Get creative, have fun, and transform your favorite pieces into gallery-worthy displays!