How to Matte a Photograph

Measure the dimensions of your photograph (width and height). Cut a baseboard out of tag board, foam board, matte board, cardboard, card stock or any other sturdy paper product. Cut the baseboard, so it is between 1 to 3 inches greater in dimensions than the photograph (that is, bigger than the photograph on all sides). The larger you make the baseboard, the greater in width the matte margins will be. The dimensions on all sides must be proportional to those of the photograph. For example, a 5 X 8 photograph can have a baseboard of 6 X 9 for a thin matte or 7 X 10 for a thicker matte.

Mark the photo area on the baseboard. Using a ruler and pencil, lightly mark the lines of the matte area. That is, if you have chosen matte dimensions of 2 inches, measure 2-inch margins on all sides of the baseboard and mark lightly with a pencil. The purpose of marking the matte margins is to make centering the photograph on the baseboard easier.

Adhere the photograph to the baseboard with adhesive spray. Adhesive spray can be found at any craft or office-supply store. Glue can also be used, however, be wary that glue can bubble, warp or moisturize a photograph. Spray the adhesive directly onto the back of the photograph (place the photo on a piece of newspaper or tarp to catch the over spray) and adhere to the baseboard inside of the outlined pencil markings. Place a clean cloth on top of the photograph and gently press down. Set aside.

Cut out the matte board. Using the same material or an alternate sturdy paper board, cut a board in the exact same dimensions as your baseboard. If you made a 7 X 10 baseboard, cut a 7 X 10 matte board.

Measure the photo area in the center of the matte board and mark the margins lightly with a pencil. For example, if you are matting a 5 X 8 photograph on a 7 X 10 baseboard, measure 2-inch margins on all four sides and mark (complete lines) lightly with a photo. Once you have the outline of the photo, cut the inner space (the 5 X 8 space) out using a sharp knife. Only use scissors to trim any stray fibers from the cut lines.

Spray the adhesive on the back of the matte frame or glue. Carefully adhere to the baseboard by matching up all corners. Do so slowly so as not to get any adhesive or glue onto the photograph. Once the matte board is in place, gently press down. Allow to dry.