9. Another panel is hand-painted and added between the ink lines and the first wide panel.

8.  The result. Note the difference of a few lines.

7. Three ink lines are added with an antique ruling pen.  The thin middle line is a different color.   Each line is also a different width.

6.Two mats, a wide panel, and a painted bevel.

5. Close up of the variegated bevel.  Note the color variation.

4. Colors are mixed and added to the mat bevel.  Several layers are added to give a variegated pattern to the bevel.

3. A wide panel is painted onto a second window mat.  Typically 2 or 3 colors are used.  Final colors complement the artwork.

2. The window mat is attached to the mounting mat with linen tape. The result provides a simple design.

1. The artwork is mounted to a solid cotton rag mount.  Mounting methods allow for easy removable of art.  Art is never damaged if it needs to be removed.

Decorative mat elements are a very reasonable investment when you consider the materials, time, and experience needed.  This page shows some of the steps for a recent decorative mat.   I start by using solid cotton rag mats (Level 1 mats).  They are hand-cut.

The final result.  It is ready to be added to your collection, or ready for framing.  Your option.

Unique mat and frame style designs for you.

10. Another hand-painted bevel is added to a third window mat and placed on top.  Spacer mats are added between two of the window mats.  All mats are attached and weighted.