I started out cutting mat board with a very cheap handheld mat cutter.
Should i cut mat board.
Use an x acto knife and a metal ruler to cut through the mat board.
I ve turned the board upside down and worked from the opposite end but the grooves are everywhere now.
Typically if you cut 2 3 of your own mats your tools will pay for themselves.
Support the show on patreon https goo gl w3pg2j in this video i show how to cut mat board for some custom picture frames i ve been working on.
It now has grooves worn on the most common lines that i use to cut on those that are 2 5 inches apart.
Turn the board and cut the second side.
Measuring your mat board for the frame is pretty simple no architecture or engineering degree required.
Before you begin cut your mat board to the size of your frame.
Before you begin cutting mat board learn what kind of frame matting you should use.
On the second and successive cuts the knife it will fall into the groove you established with the first cut.
Cutting mat board the 1st cut is the deepest.
Make sure the water is cool.
Add a solution of cup white vinegar per gallon of cool water and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
I have a 36 x 24 olfa cutting mat that i ve been using for the past three years.
If you ve selected a mat of a fanciful color or design it should be the one you use for the window mat as it will be front and center in the frame and complement the.
The hand holding the knife should be relaxed and the knife held loosely.
You ll be using this mat as the window frame for the front of the picture.
Place the mat board on top of the back of your frame backing and trace around it with a pencil.
I now use a full cutting system which has been paid for over and over again not to mention the fact that it saves a lot of time.
It will take two more light cuts to be completely through the board.
It s perfect for cutting squares triangles diamonds circles or any shape that requires turning to cut multiple sides.
At first your cut will barely penetrate the mat board.
Don t be in so much of a rush to save money that you end up having to buy a new table because you ruined one while cutting your mats.
Plus it should also remove any surface stains on the mat.
Cut the second window frame mat.
Except for ink stains those are a little tougher to soak your mat place it in a bathtub or container that is large enough so your mat can lie flat.
Measure the reveal area you want around.
Learn how to cut mat boards by hand on this page.
The logan mat cutter i use runs about 50 for the guide and cutting handle.
Cut the second mat board to the exact specifications of the first.
