Framing with mat board involves carefully securing your artwork or photo behind the mat before inserting it into the frame. Here's a straightforward method:
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Prepare Your Materials: You'll need your artwork/photo, mat board, acid-free framer's tape, a clean workspace, and a frame.
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Position and Align: Place your artwork face down on a clean surface. Then, carefully position the mat board on top, aligning it to your desired placement over the artwork. Ensure the artwork is centered and the mat board's window showcases the intended portion.
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Hinge the Mat: Using acid-free framer's tape, create a "hinge" along the top edge of the artwork/photo. Apply the tape to the back of the artwork, ensuring a portion of the tape extends beyond the edge.
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Attach the Mat Board: Carefully fold the extending portion of the tape over onto the back of the mat board. Press firmly to ensure a secure bond. This effectively attaches the mat board to the artwork, allowing it to hang freely behind the mat. You only need to adhere tape to the top edge, so that your artwork or photo can just hang down. Next, position the mat board over the photo, align the edges and rest down to adhere the mat board to the tape on the top of the photo. Push the mat board firmly down over the tape to help it to adhere firmly.
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Finishing: Check that the mat board is securely attached and that the artwork is properly positioned. Then, carefully insert the matted artwork into your frame.
Framing with a mat board not only enhances the visual appeal of your artwork but also provides crucial spacing between the artwork and the glass, protecting it from moisture and sticking.
