Use a Logan Mat Cutter
The Logan mat cutter is a tool that helps you create the perfect look for your picture. When framing a picture, a mat accents and accentuates any piece, making it stand out and look professional. Whether it's framing a picture for personal or professional use, the Logan mat cutter can accommodate your needs.
Instructions
1. Measure the picture you are going to mat. The inside size of the mat is going to be ¼ inch in from the outside perimeter of the picture. For instance; if the picture is 20 by 24, then the matte should be cut 19 ¾ by 23 ¾ for the inside cut.
2. Decide on the outside cut size of the mat. Mats can be anywhere from ½ inch to 6 inches wide, depending on the size of the frame and effect that is wanted. If the mat is just an accent piece, a smaller width is better. If the mat is going to set a small picture to stand out to be a large piece, a large width would be used.
3. Cut the outer dimension of the mat first. Say the mat width for the above example is 2 ¼ inches wide, then cut the outer dimension to 22 by 26. First measure the dimension using the metal ruler that comes in the Logan mat cutter. Use a pencil to mark on the back of the mat the size that needs to be cut.
4. Place the metal ruler on top of the back of the mat piece. Use the exacto knife against the metal ruler to cut along the pencil marked lines. Make several slices in the same spot until the mat is completely cut with no frayed edges. Have the cutting mat beneath the mat and exacto knife so it will not cut into your table.
5. Use the metal ruler to measure the inside cut. From the outer edge, measure in 2 ¼ inches and make a mark with the pencil. Connect all the marks to make the rectangle that is going to be cut.
6. Set the Logan mat cutter metal ruler on top of the mat, lining up the pencil line with the ruler. Set the razor blade into the cutting piece and tighten the holding screw. Place the cutting piece on the routed edge of the cutter.
7. Slide the cutter to the first corner and press the cutter firmly down to begin to cut the mat and continue it down to the next corner mark. Repeat several slices until the mat is cut all the way through. Repeat for each edge.
8. Remove the cut rectangle from the middle and place the picture in its place. Look through on the outside to make sure the picture lines up with the mat and it is straight. Turn the mat and picture back to the back side, being sure to keep it set in place. Place tape on all four edges to keep it set. Then place mat and picture in frame.
