Using The Mat Cutter

Before you begin cut your mat board to the size of your frame.

Using the mat cutter.

To cut the mat sides repeat the steps described above. You can also use hard mats these do not self heal but most do not cut easily so the effect maybe the same. Step 1 take your fabric piece and lay it on your cutting mat so the raw edge is on the right side. Step 2 the first cut will be to the right edge to square up the fabric.

Place the fabric on the cutting mat fold near the bottom edge side to be squared on the left. Use an x acto knife and a metal ruler to cut through the mat board. We especially liked the pivot and pull blade coupled with the ergonomic handle making this mat cutter convenient and time saving. The mat cutter s blade adjusts angles so turn the knob to 90 degrees to cut straight edges.

It consists of a marker bar system that allows faster marking. Always cut away from the important part. In this case have your ruler on the mat side and cut toward the center. For circle or oval cutting use the nt 45 degree bevel mat circle cutter that cuts perfect circles ranging 7 7 8 24 3 16 in diameter and ovals ranging 6 11.

Simply measure off 8 inches one way and 10 inches the other. Cut the mat board to the size you need. The logan mat cutter i use runs about 50 for the guide and cutting handle. The square ruler s left edge should be near but inside the left edge of the fabric roughly where you will make your square cut.

A video demonstration of the logan 4000 deluxe pull style bevel cutter. To make architectural models use the nt 45 degree bevel mat board cutter for straight lines and cut mat boards into 45 degree bevel edges to join the edges together for a neat corner. Mat board comes in sizes much larger than you ll need so use your dexter mat cutter to cut out an 8 by 10 mat. A self healing mat is the best as the rotary cutter blades would not damage the mat.

The lines in the cutting. Line up the fold with one of the horizontal lines on the cutting mat or if your mat is unlined use a square rotary ruler. Line up your ruler with the folded edge using the lines to make sure it s straight. Typically i leave a 1 4 on all sides.

Measure the reveal area you want around your art. Use three light cuts to get through the board. Don t attempt to tug or pull the center away. Keep cutting light strokes with the ruler until the center comes away and drops out.