How to Cover a Picture Frame Mat with Fabric (An Easy DIY Upgrade)
Today I’m showing you how to add a custom touch to any picture frame using my favorite thing – fabric! This Fabric Picture Frame tutorial will help you, like me, go head over heels in customizing the frames laying around your home!
DIY Fabric Photo Frame Mat
You know when you find a picture frame that almost works?
The frame itself is cute, the size is right, and the price is definitely right…but then the mat inside just feels a little plain or doesn’t quite match your style.
I’ve had that happen more times than I can count.
Instead of passing on a perfectly good frame, I started covering the mat with fabric—and it makes such a difference. It’s one of those simple little projects that can make a basic frame feel so much more custom and special.
If you love easy DIY projects, cozy home decor, or finding ways to make affordable things look high-end, this one is for you.
Today I’m sharing exactly how to cover a picture frame mat with fabric using spray adhesive. It’s simple, beginner-friendly, and a great way to use fabric scraps too.
Why I Love This DIY
There’s something about fabric that instantly adds warmth and personality to a space.
A plain white mat can be nice, but adding fabric gives you so many more options. You can match your room, bring in a pattern you love, or add a little texture where something feels flat!
I especially love this idea for:
- Nursery decor
- Gallery walls
- Seasonal decorating
- Vintage or thrifted frames
- Kids’ rooms
- Gifts
It’s such an easy way to make something feel more thoughtful and custom.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need much for this project.
- Picture frame with a removable mat : this isn’t the exact one I have, but it is similar!
- Fabric (see details for what type down below!)
- Spray adhesive
- Fabric shears
- Iron
- Drop cloth or paper to protect your surface
What Fabric Works Best?
I recommend lightweight cotton fabric for this project.
It smooths nicely, wraps around edges well, and comes in endless pretty prints.
A few ideas:
- Floral prints
- Gingham
- Soft stripes
- Neutral linen-look cotton
- Tiny ditsy prints
- Seasonal patterns
NOTE: If the fabric is too thick, it can feel bulky once everything is back in the frame.
How to Cover a Picture Frame Mat with Fabric
Step 1: Take the Mat Out of the Frame
Open the back of your frame and remove the mat.
Set the glass and artwork aside somewhere safe so they don’t get scratched while you work.
Step 2: Iron Your Fabric
If your fabric has wrinkles, give it a quick press first.
This step helps so much and makes the finished project look cleaner.
Step 3: Cut Fabric Slightly Larger Than the Mat
Lay the mat on top of the fabric and cut around it, leaving about 1 to 2 inches extra on each side.
You’ll use that extra fabric to wrap around the back.
Step 4: Spray the Mat with Adhesive
Take everything outside or to a protected surface.
Spray an even layer of adhesive directly onto the front of the mat.
I used spray adhesive for this because it gives a smooth finish and makes attaching the fabric really easy.
Step 5: Attach the fabric
Lay your fabric right side down on a clean surface. Lay the mat down in the center so that the adhesive side attaches to the frame.
Start in the middle and work outward to prevent bubbles or wrinkles.
If your fabric has a pattern, now is the time to make sure it’s straight and centered!
Step 6: Cut Squares From Each Corner
Flip the mat over and cut squares from each corner, as shown above.
Step 7: Wrap the Edges Around the Back
Flip the mat over and pull the extra fabric around to the back side.
Secure it with a little more spray adhesive.
Try to keep the corners neat and smooth.
Step 8: Cut Out the Center Opening
Turn the mat back over and find the inside opening.
Cut an X across the center opening, then cut the center out, leaving about a 1-inch border on each side.
Step 9: Cut Slits in Each Corner
Cut slits into each corner. Fold the flaps to the back and secure them neatly, using more adhesive if necessary.
Take your time here—it’s worth it!
Step 9: Put the Frame Back Together
Once everything is dry, place your photo or artwork back into the frame.
Add your newly covered mat, close the back, and admire how much prettier it looks now.
A Few Helpful Tips
Use Smaller Prints or Subtle Patterns
Busy prints can compete with the photo or art inside the frame.
Keep It Smooth
Take a few extra seconds smoothing the fabric as you go. It makes a big difference.
Let It Dry Before Reassembling
Give the adhesive a little time to set before putting everything back together.
Don’t Overthink It
Even if it isn’t absolutely perfect, it will still look beautiful once it’s framed!
Where I’m Using This in My Home
This would be so pretty for:
- Family photos
- Children’s artwork
- Vintage botanical prints
- Nursery wall decor
- Seasonal printable art
- Hallway gallery walls
- Framed recipe cards in a kitchen
There are so many fun possibilities!
Other DIY’s!!!
If you love simple projects like this one, I have a feeling you’d enjoy a few more cozy DIY ideas around here too. If you have fabric scraps left over, my Fabric Birthday Balloon Garland tutorial is such a fun project to make and reuse year after year.
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