| Layered Fabric Mats |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-209 |
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Q: I bought some prints when I was on vacation and I want to hang them but mats and frames are so expensive. Got any ideas?
A: (Debbie Stapely, Ask DIY Crafts Expert) You can cover some pre-cut mats from the clearance bin with fabric for a very special look. Here's how: Materials:
Inexpensive frame
Two mats in graduated sizes
Silk remnants large enough to cover the cardboard that comes with the frame and the mats
Spray adhesive and/or craft glue
Razor knife
Piece of foam core slightly larger than art or photo you want to display
Four photo corners
Tacky glue
- Purchase a frame that is a lot larger than the photo or print you wish to display. Buy a couple of mats. One should fit precisely inside the frame, and the other should be much smaller, both its sides and its opening (figure A).
- Choose fabrics from whatever rich, colorful remnants you can find. Silks are particularly nice if you can find them.
- Cover the mats with the fabric. Cut fabric pieces that are an inch and a half longer than the mats on all sides. Place the fabric, print side down, on a table and spray it with adhesive. (Work in a well-ventilated area when you use aerosol sprays). Also spray the front of the mat board with adhesive. Gently center the mat, glue side down, on the back of the fabric. Then press the excess material edges on to the back of the mat sides, pressing the corners down first as if you were wrapping a package. If you have a heavier fabric, get rid of some of the excess fabric first by cutting across the corner with a razor knife (figure B).
- To reveal the space in the center of the mat, slice an "X" in the fabric from corner to corner. Fold the four flaps up to the mat sides, envelope style (figure C), and attach them with craft glue or spray adhesive. Cover the smaller mat the same way.
- Use a razor knife to cut a piece of foam core slightly larger than the artwork or photo you wish to display. Cover the foam core with fabric, wrapping it as you would a present and attaching the fabric with spray adhesive or craft glue (figure D).
- Flip the foam core over so the smooth side is showing and attach four photo corners with tacky glue. Insert the photo in the corners (figure E).
- Glue fabric onto the front of the cardboard that comes with your frame.
- Place the cardboard piece fabric-side up and top it with the large mat, the small mat and the framed photo, attaching each layer with tacky glue (figure F). Then put on the frame.
More Questions for Debbie:
Q: How can I cover boxes with fabric to make keepsake boxes?
A: If your box has a tight lid, don't bring the fabric up and over the sides because that creates too much bulk and the box won't shut easily. Instead, just glue the fabric to the side.
Q: I've heard of using tea to dye fabrics. Is there a specific way to do this?
A: It's really easy! Mix up some tea, put the fabric in and that's it. If you have a real big batch, you might want to do it in the washing machine.
Q: I'm adding some lights to a tapestry. How can I make a fire retardant spray for the tapestry as an added precaution?
A: Don't get lights anywhere near that tapestry! It's not worth the risk. Instead, keep the lights on the ceiling and maybe direct one spot on the tapestry. Web site resources for Layered Fabric Mats : Spring Woven Placemats from HGTV.Com Dresden Plate Placemat from Hoffman Fabrics.Com Valentine Placemats from Craft Town. Com Book: Fabrications: Fabric Ideas For The Home
by Margaret Collins
ISBN: 0801976030
Chilton Books
Krause Publications
700 E. State
Iola, WI 54990
Phone: 715-445-2214
Web site: www.krause.com
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