Moving to a new place often brings with it the opportunity to rediscover treasures hidden away in boxes and storage. As I unpacked my belongings in my new home, I found myself sifting through my paintings archive, each canvas holding memories and emotions from years past. Amongst them were pieces that I had created but never had the chance to frame and display. The sight of these forgotten artworks sparked a newfound desire to give them the attention they deserved – to frame them and let them breathe life into the walls of my new abode.
Framing your own artwork is more than just a practical task; it’s a journey of reconnecting with your creativity and giving your creations the recognition they deserve. It’s about transforming a mere canvas into a piece of art that can be proudly showcased and admired.
I opted for a hand-held Made-in-Japan NT Professional Mat Cutter, which I bought from Amazon, instead of dealing with a cumbersome large mat cutter. Essentially, you will require a cutting mat, a mat cutter, a ruler, uncut mat boards, and artistic tapes to get started.
The process begins with selecting the right frame and matting, considering factors such as the style of the artwork, the décor of the space it will inhabit, and personal preferences. This decision is crucial, as the frame and matting serve not only to enhance the artwork but also to protect it from environmental factors. Typically, I opt for white or black mat boards for the majority of my artwork. Occasionally, I will select colored mat boards to complement the theme of my paintings.
For those located in Vancouver, finding quality mat board is essential for your framing endeavors. My preferred destination for art supplies has always been the Opus Art Supplies store in my neighborhood. Opus provides an extensive selection of mat boards at very reasonable prices. Additionally, you may also explore other options such as Michaels and DeSerres in your neighborhoods.
Once the materials are chosen, the next step is to carefully measure and cut the mat board to fit the dimensions of the artwork. Precision is key here, as even the slightest deviation can affect the overall presentation. This is where tools like the NT Professional Mat Cutter come into play, ensuring clean and accurate cuts with ease. Sketch the dimensions of the opening on the back of the mat board. Align the cutting marks on the cutter with these lines. I recommend firmly holding the ruler in place and moving the cutter slowly along the cutting lines.
It’s essential to practice and familiarize yourself with its operation to achieve clean and precise cuts when framing a mat.
Usually, I opt to temporarily attach the painting to the mat board. This method enables me to flip the front board over and substitute the painting as necessary. For this purpose, I employ Tyvek Tape as a hinge between the cut mat and the backboard. I then use artistic tape on the photo corners to affix a photo to a mat, creating a T shape with the tape by overlapping the adhesive sides.
As the pieces come together – the artwork snugly encased within its frame, the matting providing a polished border – there is a sense of fulfillment that accompanies the process. It is a tangible manifestation of creativity and craftsmanship, a testament to the journey that each artwork represents.
But framing your own artwork is not just about the end result; it is about the journey itself – the memories and emotions that resurface as you handle each piece, the satisfaction of bringing something old back to life in a new context. It is a celebration of creativity and self-expression, a reminder of the beauty that lies within our own creations.
So, as I hang these newly framed artworks on the walls of my new home, I am reminded not only of the journey that brought me here but also of the journey that each painting represents. And as I continue to create and evolve as an art lover, I know that these framed pieces will serve as a reminder of where I have been and a source of inspiration for where I am headed.
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Phuong Dinh 