Matting cutter

Types of matting cutters

A matting cutter is a specialist device that can cut a wide range of substrates at precise angles and has different functionalities. There are many types of matting cutters available:

• Straight-cut matting cutter: This is the most basic kind of mat cutter that can make only straight cuts and is available in hand-held or machine-based options. They are usually budget-friendly but not suitable for anyone who needs to cut different angles for their mats, which can only be done with a more advanced matting cutter.
• Bevel-cut matting cutter: This tool is required for making bevel cuts or for achieving beveled cuts with a specific degree. These cuts are required when creating mats for pictures or frames with an angled edge. The beveled cuts are aesthetically pleasing when the mat border shows through. Bevel-cut matting cutters generally come with an adjustable cutter head, which has the ability to tilt.
• Ruler and Straight Edge Combo: These combinations are usually a hand-held device that provides the user with a ruler and a straight edge to guide them in making their cuts accurately. They are deemed useful because they allow the user to make adjustments as they please making it easier to cut various types of mats to different shapes and sizes. Depending on what is being cut the combination can be on multiple sizes and materials, meaning one could require the help of a ruler and straight edge that is better suited for their purpose.
• Curved Cutter or Contour Cutter: This cutter is used to achieve curved or contoured cuts when creating mats. It is also available in hand-held versions and usually comes with a guide, which helps to cut the curved lines better when making custom mats. The guide helps control the cutter’s direction allowing for more accurate and precision-cutting. It can be used when cutting out soft or rigid materials.
• Multiple Angle Cutter: This cutter is basically used when trying to cut multiple bevel angles using just one tool. It is an advanced mat cutter that is most suitable when creating custom mats for frequently used angles. An example of where this might be useful is when creating mats with a picture, a custom frame, or when making architectural drawings.

Specifications and maintenance of matting cutters

Specifications of a matting cutter are as follows:

• Cutting Frame: The cutting frame is usually made of sturdy aluminum or steel material. The size of the cutting frame may vary depending on the type of the matting cutter. For example, a fixed blade cushion cutter with a 30x50 cm cutting frame is suitable for cutting mats with a maximum size of 24x36 inches.
• Cutting Blade: The cutting blade is the most crucial part of the matting cutter. Its specifications basically decide what types of materials the matting cutter can cut. Different types of matting cutters have different types of blades. For instance, professional bevel blades for the matting cutter usually range from 45 to 90 mm in length.
• Cutting Capacity: It refers to the maximum thickness of the board that a particular matting cutter can cut. Different types of matting cutters have different cutting capacities. For example, bevel cutting matting cutters generally have a cutting capacity of 1-15 mm.
• Accuracy: This is a crucial feature of a matting cutter. It is usually described in terms of a maximum allowable cutting error. For instance, a bevel cutting matting cutter may have an accuracy of +/- 0.5 mm at 500 mm.

To ensure the most efficient and precise operation of a matting cutter, it is crucial to keep the device maintained. Here are some of the maintenance tips of a matting cutter:

• Cleaning: Regular cleaning of a matting cutter helps to keep dust and debris away from the cutter. The cleanup can be done with a soft brush or compressed air. If any stubborn dirt is present, damp cloth and soapy water can be used to clean it, but the cutter should be dried completely before use.
• Lubrication: The cutting action of a matting cutter can be smoothened by applying a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts, such as the blade, hinges, and sliders. This also prevents excessive wear and tear on the moving parts.
• Blade Maintenance: Matting cutting blades should be kept sharp for optimal cutting ability. This can be achieved by frequent sharpening or replacement. Moreover, it is suggested to inspect and clean the blades on a frequent basis to look for signs of damage or dirt.
• Storage: A matting cutter should be kept upright and in a stable position, away from moisture, direct sunlight, or temperature extremes. This reduces the chances of damage and keeps the device in good shape.

Usage scenarios for matting cutters

Mat cutters are used in a variety of industries, including arts and crafts, photography, interior decor, education, signage making, and framing. They are used in various industries that require cutting mats and trays of different materials and thicknesses.

• Framing Industry: In the framing industry, mat cutters are used to create attractive borders for paintings, photographs, and mirrors. The border enhances the appearance of the framed item and provides support.
• Arts and Crafts: Mat cutters are widely used in arts and craft projects. Artists use the cutters to create masks, stencils, and decorative mats. The precision of the cutter allows for intricate and detailed cuts.
• Interior Design: Interior designers use mat cutters when working with carpets and floor designs. The cutter is used to create clean and precise cuts to ensure that design elements fit perfectly.
• Signage Production: Mat cutters are also used in the production of signage. Material like foam, PVC, and acrylic are cut to make signs. These cutters help to create signs that are of high quality with clean edges.
• Educational Purposes: Mat cutters can be found in educational settings like schools and colleges. They are used in art classes where students are taught how to frame pictures and cut mats. With a mat cutter, students can develop their artistic skills.
• Photography Industry: In photography, photographers use mat cutters when they want to mount pictures. The pictures are then professionally framed for exhibitions or client presentations.
• Prototyping and Product Development: Mat cutters are used in product development and prototyping. Design teams use the cutters for creating prototypes of products in different materials.

How to Choose Matting Cutters

Several factors must be considered when purchasing a mat cutter for a business. The first is looking at the types of matting cutters available, which can be broad to a home-based business. The table-top, handheld, and electro-matic cuters are all viable options for different levels of expertise and use. Next, the size and capacity of the cutter can help in determining what is more important to the business. If the job requires cutting bigger sizes and thicker materials, then this will be imperative for the cutter that is selected.

Thirdly, the precision and accuracy capabilities of the cutter are essential considerations. Is it important for the business to cut mats with different bevels and angles? If so, then the cutter that offers these advanced features with stop and guides should be selected. Another important thing to consider is the ease of use of the cutter and whether it has laser cutting technology with digital displays that are easy to operate. Is it important to have a completely automated cutting process, or is it better to have a more manual approach to cutting with the help of precision tools and guides?

Fifth on the list yet very important, is the build quality and durability of the cutter that one is considering buying. Materials used in the crafting of the cutter, stress points and hinges, and the thickness of the cutting blade are all important aspects that must be carefully considered before buying. The blade system, which includes the number of blades, sharpness, and the ease of cutting and replacing the blades. The stability of the cutter when cutting mats and the guide system can also make a big difference in the quality of the cuts and the ease of use. The safety features of the cutter are also important in determining the suitability of the cutter in different environments and levels of use.

Last but not least, the overall cost and maintenance of the cutter chosen will come into the business's final decision to purchase. Like all things in life, when it comes to selecting a mat cutter, it is important to choose something that aligns well with the needs and requirements of the business.

FAQ

Q1: Are there any safety precautions that should be followed when using the mat cutting machine?

A1: Yes. Wear safety goggles to avoid damaging the eyes, handle the cutter with care, and keep the blade away from people to prevent accidental cuts. Also, store the cutter in a safe dry place.

Q2: Can someone use a mat cutting tool on materials other than mats?

A2: Yes. As long as the material can create a clean edge and the cutter is compatible with the material, it is okay to use the cutter on other materials. Common ones include cardboard, rubber, and vinyl.

Q3: Do all mat cutters have adjustable cutting angles?

A3: No. Only the professional type cutters like the bevel cutter and straight cutter have this feature. Others such as the wall-mounted cutters and the handheld mat cutter lack this ability.

Q4: How do users achieve precise and clean cuts when using a mat cutting device?

A4: By following the manufacturer's instructions, using a sharp blade, and taking time to plan and mark the cuts. Also, developing good cutting techniques and practicing on scrap materials can help achieve clean cuts.

Q5: Is it possible to cut a mat without a cutter?

A5: Yes, but the method is very risky. One can use a sharp knife or scissors but only attempt this if the cutter is unavailable. The result will not be a clean or precise cut.