Using The Mat Cutter

To make architectural models use the nt 45 degree bevel mat board cutter for straight lines and cut mat boards into 45 degree bevel edges to join the edges together for a neat corner.

Using the mat cutter. The square ruler s left edge should be near but inside the left edge of the fabric roughly where you will make your square cut. Use an x acto knife and a metal ruler to cut through the mat board. Simply measure off 8 inches one way and 10 inches the other. The lines in the cutting.

You can also use hard mats these do not self heal but most do not cut easily so the effect maybe the same. Place the fabric on the cutting mat fold near the bottom edge side to be squared on the left. Line up your ruler with the folded edge using the lines to make sure it s straight. Use three light cuts to get through the board.

The mat cutter s blade adjusts angles so turn the knob to 90 degrees to cut straight edges. Mat board comes in sizes much larger than you ll need so use your dexter mat cutter to cut out an 8 by 10 mat. Step 1 take your fabric piece and lay it on your cutting mat so the raw edge is on the right side. The logan mat cutter i use runs about 50 for the guide and cutting handle.

Step 2 the first cut will be to the right edge to square up the fabric. Keep cutting light strokes with the ruler until the center comes away and drops out. Always cut away from the important part. Measure the reveal area you want around your art.

Before you begin cut your mat board to the size of your frame. Line up the crisp folded edge to the bottom of your mat. A self healing mat is the best as the rotary cutter blades would not damage the mat. We especially liked the pivot and pull blade coupled with the ergonomic handle making this mat cutter convenient and time saving.

A rotary cutter can cut fabric pieces with sharp edges and straight edges very easily when used in conjunction with the mat. Typically i leave a 1 4 on all sides. In this case have your ruler on the mat side and cut toward the center. Line up the fold with one of the horizontal lines on the cutting mat or if your mat is unlined use a square rotary ruler.

Cut the mat board to the size you need. It consists of a marker bar system that allows faster marking. Don t attempt to tug or pull the center away. To cut the mat sides repeat the steps described above.