For this process you will need a mat cutter and either a
ruler or a mat cutting guide. These instructions use a pull-style mat cutter,
so be sure to read the instructions with your cutter in case yours works differently
from mine.
Step 1a.
If using a ruler, place your mat on a cutting mat or scrap
piece of cardboard. (The cardboard really works better; I just never have any
around.) You can also use a scrap piece of mat.
Line up the ruler with one of the lines on your mat, keeping
the ruler to the outside of your window. Hold it firmly in place. Press the
mat cutter up against the ruler, holding that firmly as well. (Some people
like to clamp the ruler to the table. This is a great idea, but I can never
find my clamps when I need them.)
Step 1b.
If using a mat cutting guide, place the mat under the guide.
Although the mat cutting instructions recommend a scrap piece of cardboard
under the mat, I never use one. Hold down the metal guide firmly.
If your cutter has clips to hold it against the guide, slip
those into the groove on the guide. If not, press the cutter firmly against
the guide. I love the clips on mine, and they are very inexpensive and easy
to find at most art supply stores.
Step 2.
Line up the cutting guide line on the cutter with the top
line of your window. Press the blade down into the mat (make sure to press
it down all the way or it will not cut) and slide the mat cutter down until
the cutting guide lines up with the bottom line of your window.
Be sure to hold everything very firmly during this step.
Step 3.
Repeat this process on all four sides. Your window should
fall right out. If it does not, carefully cut the bit of mat holding it at
the corners using a loose mat cutter blade.
Step 4.
One important thing to note is that the mat cutter does not
cut on the line on the back. Instead, it cuts so that the front of the window
will be the exact dimensions of your window, which means that the back of your
window will be about 1/16" smaller than your measurement on each side.
If you need to have your entire image showing, please take this into account.
