Mat Cutter Recomendations

I've decided to take control of my own matting (The framer can do what s/he wants) Tired of explaining why a little picture needs a great big mat. What are you guys using. Max print size I can imange is 16x20.

Hi,

I use the Logan Intermediate (#401) cutter. This guy is big enough to allow me to buy mat board in full size (40x32) and cut it to size (16x20), thus saving $$.

I have the straight blade for cutting the boards (matt board and foam core) to size and the angle blade to cut the openings.

I think I bought mine at Dick Blick http://www.dickblick.com/

Hope that helps.

-J

I checked around for mat cutters and the Alto EZ matt cutter. This is by far the simplest and least expensive mat cutter. I do not regret buying it.
Here is a link

http://www.altosezmat.com/

Both of the above mentioned mat cutters are excellent at what they do. I own the Logan 401 and have really enjoyed cutting mats to highlight my photos. The Logan 401 has the definite advantage in being able to cut down full size pieces of mat board or foam core to size. There is a smaller Logan that wouldn't accomodate this. A friend in our photo club swears by the Altos. However, I believe you are somewhat limited in the overall "border" size of your mat with the Alto. For instance, there is a maximum border size due to the way you set up your guide. On the Logan, you could conceivably cut a tiny hole in a large piece of mat board if you take the guide off and just line up the matboard against the edge (and hold it really steady). I am under the impression that you still need something for cutting your pieces down to size as the Alto doesn't allow this, but I may be mistaken. Hope this helps you. If you enjoy having your prints on display, you'll soon recoup the cost of the mat cutter vs. what you'd pay for professional mat cutting.

Amy D.

I also have used the Logan Simplex 401 to cut mat for my art shows and it is a geat mat cutter for the price. I have also used the Alto and I don't recommend it. I found it cumbersome and limited as to border sizes etc...

If you have the money and the space, the Logan Simplex 750 is about twice the cutter of either the 401 or the Alto. It comes with a framing arm with measuring marks built in. Makes the whole process much easier. The 750 would be my recommendation with the 401 as a second.

Hope this helps. Happy Holidays.