Mats are used in framing photographs and artwork to center the focus of the picture and give it a sense of spatial depth.
How to mat a picture at home.
The mat and frame should enhance the picture or artwork.
This short tutorial demonstrates one of the methods i use to mat my photos.
Beginning with a turquoise mat add 1 2 foam board on top and end with the addition of a white mat on top of the foam board.
Tape the top two corners to the mat vertically and then place horizontal tape over the vertical tape one piece on the mat and a second on the picture.
When looking for a mat and frame try arts and crafts stores like michaels a c.
Purchase mat and frame.
Here s how to cut your own picture mats.
If your mat window eats of your print on all sides of your total picture you can minimize its effect on your composition by adding a 1 8 border to your photograph.
This gives back to your picture while still making sure that there is enough overreach to prevent anyone from seeing the border once the print is mounted.
Add elegance and protection when framing photos or artwork by adding a frame mat in a complementary color.
Hinging photograph to mat.
The advantage of this method is that the image will stay centered under the picture mat opening so you do not need to hinge the mat to the mount board.
In addition to improving the overall look of your picture a mat provides a gap between the picture and glass.
Here the image is cut apart each section mounted on 1 4 foam.
Do not let the exposed tape touch the mat until you have decided placement.
The supplies you ll need are.
With the back side of the mat facing down place the image down facing as well and center it in the square.
Of course you also need art or photos you ll put in the frame and the tape is for taping the art inside the frame if you don t have another way to hold.
Secure mat and picture.
Moore deck the walls or the great frame up.
Place the photo inside the mat.
Choose one of our acid free pre cut mats or customize an uncut matboard.
Carol duvall host of hgtv s the carol duvall show shares her discoveries about matting and framing artwork.
Picture frames mat board ruler cutting mat exacto knife pencil tape or hardware for holding the art in the frame.