Framing A Puzzle

So you ask... 'What should I do with this cool looking puzzle?'.  (Wanting to cherish the memories of putting it all together & not wanting to ruin the beautiful masterpiece.)   In this tutorial, I will show you how to mat your own puzzle...  Are you up for challenge? If so, I have confidence in you!... I believe you will be pleasantly surprised with the outcome!

You will need:

Your puzzle

Puzzle glue
Mat
Frame
Mat cutter
Straight edge
X-Acto knife
Cutting board
Artist's tape

This is an essential tool to getting a great looking cut on your mat.  The mat cutter shown here is no longer available, but you can purchase a similar one {here}.

Always work on the backside of your mat,  for you will be marking it a lot.

Cut outer perimeter of mat using dimensions of frame.  Be sure it has a snug fit...you do not want it to buckle at all.

It is now time to cut the opening where you will put your puzzle.  Still working on the backside of the mat, center your puzzle on the mat to determine the size of the opening.  Keep in mind that your opening needs to be smaller than your puzzle.

  Using your straight-edge tool and mat cutter, cut the inner opening to your desired size.  

*Important*- Make sure your mat cutting tool is facing the outer edge of the mat, so the bevelled edge will be cut at the correct angle. 

Place your puzzle face-side down and center over mat opening.  Secure in place with artists tape.

I was quoted $216 to have my puzzle framed at a frame shop... I saved $140 by doing it myself!

I hope this wasn't too "puzzling" for you... Good luck! ;)

-Fuchsia-