The Art of Matting: How to Mat, Cut, and Frame Your Pictures Like a Pro

Matting is more than just a finishing touch—it enhances your artwork, protects it, and draws the viewer's eye exactly where you want it. Whether you’re framing a favorite photo, original artwork, or a meaningful poster, learning how to use and cut mats properly can elevate your presentation.

Why Use a Mat?

A matboard creates a clean, defined visual space around your artwork. It helps protect the piece from direct contact with the glass, prevents warping, and adds aesthetic depth.

Benefits of Matting:

• Improves presentation by framing the artwork visually

• Adds depth through techniques like double matting

• Draws the eye inward using beveled edges

• Blends with decor thanks to countless colors, textures, and shapes

Tip: Choose mat colors that complement tones within the image to subtly highlight key elements.

Types of Matboards: Choose with Care

When framing valuable or original artwork, the type of matboard you choose is crucial for long-term preservation.

Archival-Quality Matboards

• Made from 100% cotton rag or lignin-free wood pulp

• Buffered to resist environmental acidity

• Labeled as acid-free or museum-quality

• Ideal for photography, fine art, and heirloom pieces

Low-Grade Matboards

• Often found in general stores or craft kits

• Made from colored paper over pasteboard

• Prone to yellowing, deterioration, and artwork damage over time

• Easily identified by bright white or cream cores beneath colored tops

Cutting Mats: Tools and Techniques

If you’re framing multiple pieces or want creative control, cutting your own mats is a cost-effective and rewarding option.

Types of Mat Cutters

Handheld Mat Cutters

• Affordable and portable

• Requires a separate straightedge

• Greater risk of slippage and uneven cuts

• Ideal for casual or occasional matting

Tabletop Mat Cutters

• Built-in straightedge and heavier base

• More stable and better suited for precision cuts

• Best choice for frequent use or professional framing

Mat cutter blades dull quickly—replace frequently for sharp, clean cuts.

Double Matting & Decorative Cuts

Advanced matting techniques can add a custom, high-end feel:

• Double matting: Layer two mats in contrasting colors for added depth

• Decorative corners: Use specialized cutters for rounded or angled corners

• Floating mats: Allow edges of artwork to show with space between mat and image

How to Clean a Matboard

If your matboard gets dirty, gentle cleaning can help restore its appearance:

1. Lay flat on a clean, dry surface

2. Dust with a clean cloth or soft brush

3. Rub gently with a kneaded eraser for light marks

4. Use a sharp utility knife or abrasive eraser for stubborn spots

5. Try rubber cement thinner or lacquer thinner with cotton balls as a last resort—test on a corner first

Always test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area to avoid surface damage.

Final Thoughts

Matting your pictures adds a professional polish and helps preserve the integrity of your art. Whether you’re using a pre-cut mat or cutting your own, understanding matboard types, proper alignment, and basic cleaning techniques ensures your work looks its best—and lasts.