When cutting a mat, which side of the mat should you be cutting from?

When cutting a mat, the proper technique is to cut from the back side of the mat. This approach ensures that any potential imperfections or inconsistencies in the cut remain concealed on the back, allowing the front side to maintain a clean and professional appearance. When working on the back, the cutting tool can glide more smoothly, leading to a more precise and controlled cut.

By cutting from the back, you minimize the risk of damaging the visible side of the mat, which is particularly important in practices where aesthetics matter, such as framing artwork or creating displays. This method also keeps the cutting line less visible and prevents unnecessary wear on the front-facing material, ensuring that the final product retains its quality and visual appeal. Therefore, choosing to cut from the back side is essential for achieving optimal results in mat cutting.