How to Make Your Own Photo Window Mat

Buy a sheet of matting board for your picture display. White is the most common color used for window mats, but you can use any color you like. You may choose to pick a color that accents the color scheme in the room where you plan to hang your photo.

Cut the mat to match the size of your picture frame. Generally a picture mounted into a window mat will be framed in the next size up. For example, if you are mounting a 5 x 7-inch picture then cut the mat to fit a 8 x 10 picture frame.

Place the mat you just cut face down on a clean and dry table top, or towel.

Draw a line, using a ruler and a pencil from corner to corner, creating an "X" across the back of the mat.

Lay your photo down on the mat until the corners match with the lines you have drawn. This will center the picture on your mat.

Using a pencil, trace around the outside of your picture. Draw a second line ¼" inside the line for your picture. This will allow you to place the picture in the window of your mat to keep it from falling through.

Use a utility knife and cut the smaller of the boxes you have drawn. Carefully remove any excess mat material from the window.

Position your picture on the mat and secure it in place. You picture is now matted into a window mat and is ready for framing.