Guides
Framing & matting guides
Practical guides for measuring, border width, bottom-weighting, double mats, collage layouts, and framing terms.
FramingMath is for the moment when the print is on the table and the frame choice is still reversible. These guides explain the shop terms, show the formula behind the calculators, and point you to the right tool when the arithmetic matters.
The order below follows a typical project: measure the art, choose the border, decide whether it needs bottom-weighting, then handle double mats or multiple openings. If you are working in the UK or Australia, read "mat" as "mount"; the math stays the same. Calculator links sit beside each group so you can move from explanation to exact numbers without hunting through the site.
Measuring & sizing
Start here when you need the opening, border, or bottom weight before buying or cutting anything.
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How to measure for a mat
Turn artwork size into a secure mat opening with the right overlap.
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How wide should a mat border be?
Choose a border width and see the frame size it creates.
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Bottom-weighting explained
Why the bottom mat border is made larger so the picture sits optically centered, and exactly how much extra to add.
Cutting & assembly
Use these for collage layouts, double mats, reveal widths, and cut-table workflow.
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How to cut a multi-opening mat
Lay out even openings and gutters, then read off every cut coordinate.
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Double matting & reveals
Size the thin accent reveal created by a second mat.
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How to frame a cross-stitch
Wash, lace over board, mat and glaze a finished stitched piece — with every size worked out.
Choosing materials & terms
Decode the order-form language before choosing board, glazing, backing, or a frame package.
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Glass vs acrylic for framing
Compare weight, clarity, UV protection and cost, and learn when each glazing wins.
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Matting & framing glossary
Plain definitions of framing terms across US, UK/AU, and European wording.