How to Mat Artwork

How to Mat Artwork: A Guide to Protecting and Showcasing Your Art

Matting is an excellent way to both protect your artwork and enhance its presentation. By choosing the right mat board in various colors, sizes, and materials, you can create a professional and polished look for your pieces. Learning how to mat artwork yourself may take some practice, but it’s a skill that will save you money compared to professional framing services. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve stunning results that showcase your art beautifully while keeping it safe from damage.

Part1 Cutting a Mat Board Window

1. Prepare a Clean Workspace

Before you start matting your artwork, choose a clean and dust-free area to work in. Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and allow it to dry completely. Since your mat board will be used to frame and protect your artwork, keeping it free from dirt and grime is essential. Additionally, you’ll be placing your art on the surface to take accurate measurements, making cleanliness even more important.

Tip: Avoid using cleaning solutions or soap, as these may leave residues that could damage your materials.

2. Measure Your Artwork and Mat Border

Accurate measurements are key to achieving a professional-looking mat board. Grab a calculator and follow these steps:

Decide on the mat border width – Determine how wide you want the mat border to be around your artwork.
Measure your artwork – Note the width and length to determine the window size (the cut-out area that will showcase your art).
Calculate the total mat board size – Add the window dimensions to the border measurements to get the final size of your mat board.

Pro Tip: If you want to fully cover the edges of your artwork, subtract ¼ inch (0.64 cm) from each side (a total of ½ inch or 1.27 cm from both length and width). This ensures a neat fit under the mat.

Make sure your mat board and backing board are the same size. Once you finalize the mat board measurements, use them to cut the backing accordingly.

3. Mark the Outer Edges of the Mat and Backing Boards

Since most mat boards come in standard sizes, you’ll likely need to trim them to fit your artwork. Now that you have your measurements:

Use a ruler or tape measure to mark the correct dimensions.
Make light pencil marks at each corner to guide your cuts.

Keeping your marks subtle ensures they won’t be visible once the matting is complete.

4. Use the Frame for Accurate Measurements

If you plan to frame your matted artwork, both the mat board and backing board must fit inside the frame. To ensure the right size:

Place the back of the frame over your mat and backing boards.
Double-check the measurements to see if any trimming is needed.
If the boards are too large, adjust the border size accordingly.

Tip: Choosing a frame before matting can limit your flexibility in designing the mat border. For more creative control, consider matting your artwork first and selecting a frame afterward.

5. Trace Your Measurements with a Ruler and Pencil

Now that your measurements are marked, follow these steps to outline your cutting guides:

Set your artwork aside to prevent any accidental damage.
Use a ruler and pencil to connect the small marks you previously made.
Draw straight lines to form two rectangles or squares on your mat board and one on your backing board.

Keeping your lines precise will help ensure clean and accurate cuts.

6. Cut the Backing and Mat Boards with a Straight-Edge Razor

Achieving a clean, precise cut is crucial for professional-looking matting. Follow these steps carefully:

Place a straight-edge razor at the top corner of the board.
Apply firm, even pressure as you slowly pull the razor down toward the bottom corner.
Stay aligned with the penciled lines to maintain a straight edge.

Pro Tip: Keeping the cut straight is the trickiest part of matting. To guide your cuts, use a ruler, an old frame, or a heavy book as a straight edge. If the cut isn’t straight, you may need to start over, so take your time!

7. Make Multiple Cuts for a Clean Window Opening

To ensure a smooth and precise mat window, follow these steps:

Cut along the same lines at least twice to ensure a clean cut.
Avoid forcing the cut-out piece out, as this could tear the mat board.
If necessary, make additional cuts, ensuring each one follows the exact same path.

Pro Tip: Take your time and keep your cuts steady—rushing can lead to uneven edges or damage to the mat.

Part2 Mounting Your Artwork with Tape

8. Center Your Artwork on the Backing

To achieve a balanced and professional look, follow these steps:

Place your artwork on the backing board and measure the space on all sides.
Ensure equal spacing on the top, bottom, left, and right.
Mark the correct position with small pencil marks in the corners.

9. Check the Centering with the Mat Window

Before securing anything, do a quick visual check:

Lay the mat window over the artwork to see how it will look when finished.
Adjust the placement if needed.
Take a moment to appreciate your work before moving forward!

10. Use a Weight to Keep the Artwork in Place

Now that everything is centered:

Place a weight (such as a small glass or a sock filled with coins) on the artwork to hold it in place.
If it shifts, don’t worry—you have pencil marks to guide you.

11. Secure the Artwork with Tape

To attach the artwork to the backing:

Use linen or archival tape to create a hinge.
Apply two vertical strips on the back of the artwork, leaving the sticky side facing outward.
Add two horizontal strips over them (sticky side down) to secure the piece.

Tip: Avoid regular household tape, as it contains acids that can damage your artwork over time.

12. Use Photo Corners or Mounting Strips for Conservation

For a more preservation-friendly method:

Use photo corners by adhering them to the backing at each corner of the artwork.
If using mounting strips, apply two strips per side (eight total) to the backing.
Gently slide the artwork into place under the corners or strips.

This method protects your artwork without using adhesive directly on it.

13. Attach the Window Mat with a Taped Hinge

To secure the mat window to the backing:

Lay both boards flush together, face down.
Use one long strip of linen tape to attach the top edges.
Place half of the tape on the back of the mat and the other half on the backing.
Fold them together like a book.

Your matted artwork is now ready for framing! If you prefer, you can also attach an adhesive picture hanger to the back of the mat board to display it without a frame.

Part3 Dry Mounting Your Artwork

1. Purchase Dry Mounting Equipment

Dry mounting is a more involved process compared to using tape, offering a permanent and stable mount for your artwork. If you’re looking for a professional, lasting result and are willing to invest, this is the method for you. You’ll need:

A tacking iron
Dry mounting tissue
Release tissue
A professional heating press

💡 Tip: Investing in dry mounting equipment can be a smart choice if you plan to consistently mount a lot of artwork or photographs. However, keep in mind that this can be quite the investment—dry mount presses can cost several thousand dollars, while tacking irons typically range from $50 to $100. The tissues are relatively more affordable.

Important Note: Dry mounting is irreversible, so it’s not suitable for older artwork or pieces you intend to preserve. It’s a permanent solution that’s not ideal for conservation purposes.

2. Measure Your Artwork and Window to Size the Backing Board

Now it’s time to get precise with your measurements:

Choose the size for the border around your window.
Measure the dimensions of your artwork.
Add the artwork measurements and the border size together to calculate the total size needed for your backing board.
Mark the measurements with two small pencil marks at each corner for reference.

This step ensures your artwork and matting will fit perfectly within the backing!

3. Place Artwork Face Down and Lay Dry Mounting Tissue Behind It

Prepare for the mounting process:

Ensure your workspace is clean and free of debris.
Place your artwork face down on the surface.
Lay a sheet of dry mounting tissue over the entire artwork, ensuring it fully covers the back.
Trim off any excess tissue later, once the tissue is securely in place.

This step sets the stage for a smooth and even mount.

4. Attach the Center of the Artwork to the Tissue Using a Heated Tacking Iron

Now, it’s time to secure the tissue to the artwork:

Plug in the tacking iron and allow it to heat up, similar to a regular iron.
Once hot, gently place the iron in the center of the face-down artwork and dry mounting tissue.
Use small circular motions to iron the tissue for a few seconds, ensuring it adheres securely to the back of the artwork.

This step helps to firmly attach the tissue while keeping everything in place for the next steps.

5. Trim Off Excess Dry Mounting Tissue

Once the tissue is securely attached, it’s time to tidy up:

Use scissors or a paper trimmer to carefully cut off the extra dry mounting tissue.
Work slowly and focus on cutting neat, straight lines to avoid accidentally damaging the artwork.

💡 Tip: If you have a large paper trimmer, it will make cutting the tissue much easier and ensure cleaner edges.

6. Measure to Center Your Artwork on the Backing

It’s time to position your artwork perfectly:

Place the artwork face up on the backing board.
Use a tape measure to ensure there’s equal space on all sides (left, right, top, and bottom).
Once you’re satisfied with the placement, mark the spot with small pencil marks on the backing.

This step ensures that your artwork is perfectly centered for the final mounting.

7. Use the Tacking Iron to Attach Two Corners to the Backing

Now, secure the corners of your artwork:

Gently lift two opposite corners of the artwork, one at a time.
Using the heated tacking iron, press it on the dry mounting tissue that is laying flat on the backing.
Move the tacking iron from the center outwards to ensure an even attachment.
Secure the two corners by pressing the iron firmly on the tissue.

This step ensures that the artwork is anchored in place before proceeding with the final mounting.

8. Press Your Print in a Heated Press for 1-2 Minutes

It’s time for the heat press to work its magic:

Lift the press cover and place your piece between two pieces of leftover mat board and release paper.
Close the press, ensuring it’s heated to around 180°F (82.22°C).
Use a stopwatch to track the time and press for 1-2 minutes.

💡 Tip:

For photographs on resin-based paper, limit the press time to 60-90 seconds.
For fiber-based papers, which are commonly used for high-quality prints, heat for 2-4 minutes.

This step ensures that your artwork is evenly mounted and securely pressed.

9. Weigh Down the Mounted Print While It Cools

To avoid warping or bubbling, let the mounted print cool properly:

Once you remove it from the press, keep the artwork flat by laying it face down under something heavy.
Use a large coffee-table book or socks filled with coins if you don’t have a specialized flattening weight.
Let the artwork cool completely before removing it from under the weight. To check, gently lift one corner and touch your finger to the backing to ensure it’s fully cooled.

💡 Tip: Double-check that your workspace remains clean during this process to prevent any dust or debris from affecting the artwork while it cools.

Part4 Choosing the Right Mat for Your Artwork

1. Choose Archival Backing and Mat Boards for Original Artwork

For high-quality preservation, select archival materials that are acid-free and safe for your artwork. These materials, often used by museums, ensure the long-term protection of your original pieces. Although archival materials are more expensive, they are worth the investment for valuable prints and original artworks.

2. Choose Standard Backing and Mat Boards for Less Valuable Art

For prints or artwork that aren’t as valuable, you may opt for standard backing and mat boards. While they won’t preserve your pieces as well as archival materials, they are still a good choice for less expensive or non-valuable works. However, be aware that standard materials may eventually cause damage over time.

3. Use a Wide Mat Border for Smaller Pieces

A wide mat border works well for smaller pieces, making them appear more dramatic and drawing attention to the artwork. For a piece that’s 8 in. x 12 in. (20.32 cm x 30.48 cm), a minimum of 2 inches (5.08 cm) wide for the mat border is recommended, but you can go wider for a bolder look.

4. Use a Narrow Mat Border for Large, Impressive Pieces

For larger pieces, a narrow mat border is ideal, as the artwork itself is the focus. Large pieces don’t need much framing flair. Keep the mat border width to 25% of the shortest edge to maintain a balanced and clean presentation.

5. Choose White Matting to Limit Distractions

White matting is a classic choice that ensures the artwork remains the focal point. It offers a clean, simple look that complements original artwork by not drawing attention away from the piece. White matting is a timeless option that works for nearly any artwork style.

6. Choose Neutrals for a Soft but Subtle Mat

For a softer, subtler look, go for neutral colors like grays, beiges, or off-whites. These shades add depth and character to your mat without overwhelming or competing with the artwork. Neutral mats bring balance and allow the art to shine through while offering a little extra texture.

7. Choose Colors That Don’t Compete with the Artwork

If you decide to go with colors other than neutrals, choose colors that complement your artwork instead of competing with it. Pick a color that already appears in the piece to enhance it. For example, if your artwork has dominant orange tones, select a mat in a color that complements or accents those tones, avoiding colors like blue that may clash.

8. Put Photographs in 3-Inch (7.62 cm) White Mats for a Crisp Look

For photographs, use a 3-inch (7.62 cm) white mat for a professional, polished appearance. This size provides a clean, sharp border that elevates the photograph while maintaining a modern aesthetic. A white mat ensures the photo stands out and looks crisp in any frame.