How to Make Fabric Picture Frame Mats – DIY Fabric Frame Mats

My DIY fabric mat frame tutorial got so much love on TikTok, I figured it needed a permanent spot here! Using a fabric wrapped mat is a quick, inexpensive way to get a custom frame look – and it couldn’t be easier!

First – take a look at the before and after. The before looks so plain compared to the contrast the fabric frame mat adds in the after, don’t you think? I used extra fabric I had lying around from Hobby Lobby.

You just need a few materials:

• Frame with existing mat
• Fabric
• Spray adhesive (highly recommend this kind!)

If you’ve ever loved the look of a fabric covered photo mat – good news, it’s so easy to make on your own!

How to Create a Fabric Mat

1. Iron your fabric to get out all the wrinkles.
2. Spray the photo mat board with spray adhesive and allow one minute for it to get tacky before laying and pressing sticky side down onto your fabric.
3. Cut lines leading into each corner, trim excess fabric, and spray where you will fold over. Once tacky, fold the fabric over to the back side, pulling taught to get clean, crisp edges.
4. Voila! Pop back into your frame with art or a photo.

Ideas and Tips for DIY Fabric Covered Photo Mats

• If your frame doesn’t have an existing mat, make one with leftover cardboard or foam board.
• Get a good spray adhesive! This kind is perfect for this project, and handy to have around. The spray works much better than fabric glue or hot glue which can leave visible bumps under the piece of fabric. 
• Don’t skip ironing your fabric before starting. This will give it a more professional appearance.
• Use a credit card or a similar tool to gently press down on your surface after applying to release any air bubbles, and use it to press the corners in so they are crisp.
• If using a pattern with lines, ensure that you use the lines as a guide to help keep the pattern straight.
• Use leftover fabric to coordinate with existing textiles in your home.
• Get creative and use cloth napkins, old wrapping paper, or even fabric from an old piece of clothing for a sentimental gift.
• Custom mats and picture frames can get expensive. I love to thrift for vintage frames! 

@whatnatisdoing

This DIY fabric mat is such a quick and easy way to add a custom look to a frame or piece of art! 🙌🏼🖼️ Also I forgot how cheap fabric was – less than $5/yard for the stripes!! (You could also easily get same look with leftover wrapping or wallpaper). #easydiy #diyproject #diyprojectsideas #diyhomedecor

♬ This Will Be – audios4you

I hope you have fun creating your own frame mats. It’s a great way to spruce up white walls and create a unique gallery wall while giving an existing frame some new life!