Passe-Partout Matting: A Step-by-Step Guide to Framing Your Art Prints

If you've invested in art prints like the 'Love and Magique Blue Art Print' or the 'Daydream by Blakely Made,' you want to display them in a way that does justice to the artwork. Passe-partout matting—using a window mat to create a border between the print and the frame—is a classic technique that adds depth and protects your print from touching the glass. This guide walks you through the process step by step, so you can frame your prints with confidence.

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a first-time framer, mastering passe-partout matting elevates your framing game. It's especially useful for standard-sized prints that need a custom look without custom framing costs. Let's dive into the materials and steps you'll need.

What You'll Need for Passe-Partout Matting

Before you start, gather the right materials. You'll need a mat board (acid-free for archival quality), a sharp utility knife or mat cutter, a metal ruler with a cork back, a cutting mat, and acid-free tape (like linen tape or artist's tape). A pencil and a square ruler will help with measuring. For the frame, choose one that accommodates the mat plus the print—standard sizes like 11x14 or 16x20 work well.

Consider the color of your mat. White or off-white is classic, but you can experiment with subtle tones that complement the print. For example, a cream mat pairs beautifully with warm-toned artwork like 'Osteria da Magique by Di Lunedi.' Avoid bright colors that distract from the art. Also, ensure your print is stored flat and clean before matting.

• Always use acid-free mat board to prevent yellowing over time.

Measuring and Marking the Window

Place your print on the mat board and decide how much border you want. A common rule is to make the top and side borders equal, and the bottom border slightly wider (about 1/4 inch more) to visually balance the piece. For example, if you want a 2-inch top border, make the bottom 2.25 inches. Mark the outer dimensions of the mat on the back of the board.

To mark the window, measure from the edges inward. Use a pencil to lightly draw the cut lines on the back of the mat board. Double-check your measurements: the window should be slightly smaller than the print so that the print's edges are hidden under the mat. A 1/8-inch overlap is typical. For prints with borders, you can align the window to show the full image.

• Use a square ruler to ensure your corners are 90 degrees.

Cutting the Mat Window

Place the mat board on your cutting mat with the back side up. Align your metal ruler along the cut line, holding it firmly. With a sharp utility knife, score along the line using multiple light passes rather than one heavy cut. This gives you cleaner edges and reduces the risk of tearing. Cut about halfway through the board on the first pass, then deepen the cut.

At each corner, cut slightly past the intersection to create a clean corner—but be careful not to overcut into the border. After cutting all four sides, gently push the center piece out. If the corners aren't perfect, use a fine sandpaper or a corner rounder to tidy them. Practice on scrap board first if you're new to cutting.

• Change your blade frequently for crisp cuts.

Mounting the Print and Assembling the Frame

Once the window is cut, place the print face down on a clean surface. Position the mat over it so the window aligns with the image. Use acid-free tape to hinge the print to the mat along the top edge only—this allows the print to hang freely and expand with humidity. Apply two or three small pieces of tape, then gently flip the assembly over to check alignment.

Now, insert the matted print into your frame. Place the backing board, then the matted print (with glass if desired), and secure the frame's clips or tabs. For a polished look, consider using a frame with a slightly deeper rabbet to accommodate the mat. The 'Un Hôtel Magique Tote Bag' isn't part of framing, but it makes a great accessory for carrying your supplies to a framing workshop!

• Wear cotton gloves when handling prints to avoid fingerprints.

Tips for a Professional Finish

If you want a double mat, cut two windows—one slightly larger than the other—and stack them. The inner mat can be a contrasting color to create a visual frame within the frame. For a clean look, ensure both mats are cut precisely. Use a mat cutter with a bevel guide for angled edges, which add a subtle shadow line.

Finally, consider the frame style. A simple black or white frame keeps the focus on the art, while a wood frame can complement the print's tones. For example, a natural wood frame pairs nicely with 'Palm under the Sun by Ugla Studio.' Avoid overly ornate frames that compete with the mat and print.

• Store leftover mat board for future projects—it's great for practice cuts.

Passe-partout matting is a rewarding skill that lets you frame your art prints exactly how you envision them. With practice, you'll achieve clean, professional results that make your artwork stand out. Start with a simple print and mat, and soon you'll be framing your entire collection with confidence.