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Catholic Pictures
Framing
Matting:
At many places online and off, you can buy pre-cut matt board in very specific sizes such as 4x6, 5x7, 8x10, 11,x14 etc. Matting images can be as simple as taking a standard-sized picture and taping it to the inside of the standard-sized matt window. However, when you start running into odd sizes, you're going to have to either cut the matt yourself or have a frame shop do it for you.
The most cost-effective way of getting matt board is buying it in sheets of 32" x 40." This is the size the manufacturer typically makes it in and, from there, it is cut to all other sizes. Matt boards can also get rather pricey depending on whether you're buying acid-free matt board or matt with a texture to it. The acid-free, naturally, is archival and meant to last much longer than standard matt board.
You can get fancy with cutting your matt by purchasing a matt cutter, or you can do it the old-fashioned way with a ruler and razor. When cutting the window for your picture, cut from the non-display side of the matt. If your image is a perfect 8 x 10 inches, then mark those measurements on the inside of the board with a pencil and give yourself an extra 0.25 inch. For example, you would cut your window at 7.75 x 9.75 inches for an 8x10 image. This extra 0.25 inch is a good idea, because it gives extra wiggle room when securing your picture to the board.
Mounting:
The best and most secure way to mount images is through a heat process called dry mounting, which most frame-shop experts will offer. For the do-it-yourself person, there are a few other alternatives: spray adhesive, decoupage, and tape.
Double-sided tape is an excellent way to secure images to your mounting board. However, if you're using a matt board, it's better to tape the image to the matt.
Another way is by coating your mounting board with a spray adhesive and lightly pressing your image onto it.
Unless you're using a reusable tape or adhesive, assume that the work you do will be permanent. The main disadvantage to these methods is that, over time, your image will most likely slip or bubble. This is why dry mounting, though more expensive, is a significantly more efficient way to mount your artistic images.
Framing:
Making custom frames requires a few specialty tools, which is why the most cost-effective way to custom frame your own images is by customizing the size of the image you print or the matt board that surrounds it. Many retailers carry standard-sized picture frames and matt board. So, just buy the standard frame and matt, cut the matt to the desired size and mount your image.
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