Does anyone cut oval mat windows? The professional models are very expensive so I'm wondering if anyone has experience with the manual ones, from Fletcher or Logan.

Thanks,
Mark

I assist a matting/framing pro in the class she teaches at the local community college, and I have to tell you that even the pro cutter is a pain to use. I guess for me, the need to have oval mats is over-ridden by the amount of work it is to cut them. :D If you have a local community college or something that teaches a matting class, check that out. It would be worth the price of the class to have access to one if this is what you want.

I have the Logan 3-step Oval and Circle mat cutter Model #201.

I wouldn't say it was easy to use in the oval mode. Circle mode is easier and you really do need to practice, practice and then practice before you understand all of the foibles.

Don't attempt any when you are tired, ensure there are no other distractions, then you will be able to do multiple ovals and circles on the one mat successfully.

Mick.

Hi Jeanette,

Ok, then I'll just have the local framer cut my ovals. I was just wondering if one could get good with a manual one like you can with a manual straight cutter. I bet the troubles are holding the board down and also meeting up with the exact starting point of the cut since there isn't a corner intersection.

Mark

Hi Jeanette,

Ok, then I'll just have the local framer cut my ovals. I was just wondering if one could get good with a manual one like you can with a manual straight cutter. I bet the troubles are holding the board down and also meeting up with the exact starting point of the cut since there isn't a corner intersection.

Mark

On the pro cutters, the odds of ending up with a smooth finish is higher since the board is held in place better, but you can still end up using the framers friend (an emery board) once in a while. ;)

I also found the Logan 3-step, model #201, easy to use. They also break easy if used incorrectly - I'm on my second one - but they're fairly cheap in price (under $60). The secret is to always use new (sharp) blades, they come in boxes of 100.

The #201 works pretty well if you go slow, always have a sharp blade and don't work tired!

Another option could be to try to find a local sign maker who has a computer controlled flatbed knife cutter which is usually used to cut vinyl for signs. These machines should be capable of cutting mat board to any shape you want.

I have one at work which has been used for this purpose in the past.


Steve.