Is framing needlepoint with a matt different than framing with just a frame? Yes and no.
First it’s important to understand the function of a mat. It acts as a non-stitched border around your needlepoint. Therefore it should be compatible with your needlepoint in color and texture. While most mats are untextured paper you can get mats that are textured, suede, fabric, or metallic.
Second, understand how mats are cut. The standard mat is cut with a beveled or angled edge exposing the inside of the mat board. Usually this is white but it can also be colored. You can also have your mat cut so that the edge is not beveled. If you want this you must ask your framer for it specifically. Mats are cut with a specialized tool that automatically cuts the beveled edge. If you want something other than a beveled rectangle you will need to ask for it and you should be sure your framer can do this.
Third, when having something framed you will be charged for each extra cut beyond the standard rectangle. Frame three small pieces together in one big mat and the cost for the mat is almost as high as buying three mats.
While mats do give some space between the needlework and the glass, it is usually not enough. If you are framing under glass use spacers. Spacers are invisible strips of plastic that hide under the edges of the frame.
When you use a mat for needlepoint, it needs to be blocked. Good framers can often pull a bit to make the needlepoint square, but it’s better to have it square before you start.
An Easy Way to Mat
Although there are other ways to mat needlepoint, you can mat yourself using mats that are already cut or cut by your framer for you. To do this you will need:
- museum (acid-free) mat board with an opening to fit your piece
- museum mat board with no opening the size of your cut mat’s outside dimension
- framing tape
- masking tape
- Make a book from the two mat boards. Lay the cut on the uncut, right sides facing up. Open it like a book. Use the
framer’s tape to make hinges on the inside to hold the two pieces together. Close the book and let it rest a bit. - Open the book again and tear off four short pieces of masking tape. Center your needlepoint inside the mat opening and use the masking tape pieces to hold the needlepoint to the mat temporarily.
- Use framer’s tape along each side permanently to attach the needlepoint to the cut mat.
- Close the book and frame your matted piece.
I used to mat and frame my own pieces. However mat cutters are expensive and bulky. These days I go to Hobby Lobby (I like the framer there). I pick out a ready-made frame and then work with him to pick out the mat. I pick from what is in stock. If I do so, generally he can have it completed in about 10 minutes. It used to take me much longer to frame something.!
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
It certainly takes me much longer than 10 minutes, also. I do like having my own set up. I have always been blown away with the prices to frame. Creative people aren’t always wealthy people. It is important to use acid free materials. If you do it yourself , you know the products. I have had mats yellow, when I paid for acid free. It takes awhile for the mat to turn yellow, so it is impossible to “take it back”.