How to Refresh Outdated Framing and Matting with Paint and Save Money!

Update your old picture mat by painting it! Find a step-by-step tutorial for cutting your own mat, and how to mat and frame a picture.

Do you ever look at your older artwork and wish you had selected a different finish for the frame or mat color? Or maybe you have found a second-hand piece that could use a refresh.

Well, my friend, I’m here to tell you that you do not need to spend a lot of money to update old frames and matting or even purchase new ones.

I’m excited to share with you how to easily dissemble professionally framed art, how to update a matting by painting it, cutting your mat yourself, how to paint a frame, and all about matting and framing pictures.

Refresh Outdated Framing and Matting

First, a little backstory.

Two of the very first pieces of art I splurged on having professionally framed at a local Michael’s were botanical prints for a dining room wall in our first house that was painted tangerine orange. I had the prints framed with orange matting to bring out the orange in the botanical prints and match the wall. 

Our decorating tastes slowly evolved to a coastal eclectic style as we constantly moved from one coast to another with military orders. I finally decided to dismantle the professional framing job so I could get my hands on the orange matting and update it with a fresh color!  

Here is how I carefully dissembled, updated, and reassembled my professionally framed art. 🙂

How to Paint Picture Matting

Step one: Remove any hardware.

Step two: Carefully peel back the outside cover.  If the adhesive is stuck, use a box cutter to help loosen or cut it.

Step three:  Bend back the staples or tabs that hold the foam core board in place with a butter knife. Remove the board, art, and matting.

Step four: Time to update!  If you are painting your mat, use a foam brush and paint two to three light coats.  I used leftover interior paint.  

Tip: Use painter’s tape to protect the art or picture inside the matting if you are unable to remove it.

Craft or acrylic paint are good choices for this project!  Just make sure you use light coats so your mat doesn’t get too wet.  

How to Spray Paint Picture Frames

Now is the perfect time to update your frame too.  

• Wipe down the frame with a damp cloth to clean it.
• Place it on newspaper or cardboard in a well-ventilated area.
• Shake your spray paint (or stir paint if you are using a paint and brush)
• Use even strokes about 12-18 inches away from the frame and spray on 2 -3 light layers letting each one dry to the touch in between.

Check out how to dry brush gold paint on a frame in this story!

Here’s the before… And the after.

Matting and Framing Your Art

Choosing the Perfect Mat

Selecting the right mat is just as rewarding as finding the perfect frame for a beautiful painting. It enhances and elevates the entire piece. Here are some essential considerations:

• Color Harmony: Think about the color palette of your artwork and the surroundings. A mat should complement these hues, creating a harmonious visual aesthetic. Think about selecting a neutral color with undertones that mimic your art or a tone-on-tone hue or contrasting color mat.
• Thickness Matters: The thickness of the mat contributes to the overall aesthetic. Thinner mats can create a sleek, modern look, while thicker mats add depth and prominence. Consider the style of your artwork and the look you want to showcase.
• Texture and Material: Select different mat textures, smooth, textured, or patterned, to add a tactile dimension to your framed piece. Also, make sure to select an acid-free mat to preserve the longevity of your art by preventing yellowing or damage.

How to Mat and Frame a Picture

Now that you’ve found the perfect mat, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of matting and framing your artwork.

• Placement: Begin by placing your artwork on a clean, flat surface. Carefully position the mat over the artwork, ensuring an equal border on all sides.
• Securing the Art: Once satisfied with the placement, gently secure your artwork to the back of the mat using acid-free tape. This ensures that your masterpiece stays in place without causing any damage.
• Framing tips: Now, insert the matted artwork into the chosen frame. Ensure a snug fit and secure it in place. Attach hanging hardware to the back of the frame if needed.

Cutting Your Own Mat

Cutting your own mat requires precision and patience, but the result is a beautifully framed piece that perfectly complements your artwork. Let’s dive into the process.

Gather Your Materials:

• Mat Board- Choose a high-quality mat board in a color that complements your artwork.
• Pencil- For marking measurements.
• Ruler- A straight edge for accurate measurements.
• T-Square– Ensures straight lines for precise cutting.
• Craft Knife or Mat Cutter- Select a sharp blade for clean cuts.
• Cutting Surface– Use a self-healing cutting mat or a protected surface.

Measure Your Artwork

• Lay your artwork on a clean, flat surface.
• Measure the dimensions of your artwork carefully.
• Add an extra margin for the mat border. The size of the border is a personal preference, but a common choice is between 1.5 to 2 inches.

Marking for Cutting

• Use a pencil to mark the measurements on the back of the mat board.
• Utilize the T-Square and ruler to ensure straight lines. Take your time with this step, as accurate measurements are crucial for a professional finish.

Marking Window Dimensions

• If your artwork is smaller than the mat board, mark the window dimensions. This is the area where your artwork will be visible.
• Ensure the window is centered within the marked mat border.

Cutting Techniques

• If using a craft knife, align the ruler along the marked lines and make several light passes rather than trying to cut through in one go.
• For a mat cutter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for smooth and controlled cuts.
• Pay extra attention to corners, making clean 45-degree angle cuts for a professional look.

Check Your Mat Opening

• Carefully lift the cut window to ensure it matches the dimensions of your artwork.
• Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

Assemble Your Artwork

• With your custom mat ready, place your artwork on a clean surface.
• Secure the mat to the artwork using acid-free tape, ensuring it’s centered within the mat opening.

Frame Your Artwork

• Insert the matted artwork into the chosen frame.
• Ensure a snug fit and secure it in place.
• Check out this story for ideas on hanging art!

There you have it! Cutting your own mat and framing your artwork is a DIY that adds a personal touch to your space. Dive in, follow the steps, and watch your art transform. Share your experiences and questions below in the comments and happy crafting!

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