Cut Mat Board for a Frame

• 1). Gather the dimensions of the mat board first. Lay the frame face down on the work surface. Measure the inside dimensions of the recessed area of the frame with a tape measure for both width and height. Mark the measurements on a notepad and subtract 1/8 inch from each dimension.
  
  
• 2). Set the frame aside and lay the mat board face down with the plain, smooth, white side facing up. Take the metal ruler and begin marking the measurements both width and height on the board. Always double check the measurements for accuracy before starting to cut.
  
  
• 3). Lay the metal ruler along one of the pencil lines and pick up the utility knife placing the tip of the blade against the edge of the ruler at the top edge of the board. Hold the ruler firmly with the left hand making sure it will not slip. Pull the knife slowly down along the ruler's edge. Don't try to cut all the way through the board on the first cut. Make two or three cuts to get a clean-cut edge. Repeat to cut along the second pencil line.
  
  
• 4). Check the two cut edges. If they are rough, sand them with 100 grit sandpaper. Place your mat board inside the frame to check for proper fit.