From Manual to Digital Cutting:
Why invest in a computerized mat cutter
The picture framing industry—particularly the matboard segment—is undergoing a significant technological transformation. Among all the elements that make up a frame, the matboard offers the greatest room for creativity: it allows for variations in colour, multi-layer designs, and plays on depth and dimension. This makes the job not only more interesting but also more stimulating.
In this evolving landscape, computerized mat cutters are leading the innovation. Just look at the American, British or Australian market, where the use of such technology has become the norm.
Transitioning from manual to digital cutting is a strategic move, bringing tangible advantages in terms of efficiency, precision, and sustainability. In this article, we explore the real benefits of this shift, enhanced by plenty of companies’ insights that has already made this leap.
Technological Shift:
What Does Switching to a CMC Mean?
Traditional manual cutting relies on tools that require constant adjustment, allow room for error, and limit the complexity of designs—especially when working with thicker materials.
Computerised mat cutters on the other hand, uses advanced technology to deliver millimetre-level precision and significantly greater versatility in crafting custom matboards.
The Benefits of a CMC
Greater Precision and Quality in Larger Formats
- Sharp contours, perfect angles, and complex designs made easy
- Capability to work on large formats up to 155 x 265 cm
Increased Efficiency and Speed
- Faster production through automation
- Simultaneous handling of multiple jobs without compromising quality
- Competitive edge over businesses still using traditional methods
Reduced Waste and Production Time
- Optimized cutting through user-friendly software
- Time savings when producing identical matboards with different thicknesses or backing boards
- Lower consumption of raw materials, reducing both costs and environmental impact
Personalization, Flexibility, and Creativity
- Create unique designs without significantly increasing costs
- Offer bespoke products: double or triple mats, v-groove, and special shapes imported directly into the machine
- Seamless integration with graphic design software for a true creative boost
Automation and Less Reliance on Manual Labor
- Reduced need for highly specialized labour
- Fewer human errors, consistent and repeatable results
- Greater reliability in day-to-day production
Enhanced Brand Perception
- A computerized cutting machine in the workshop is an eye-catcher
- A powerful marketing tool that enhances the framer’s professional image
Expanding Your Customer Base
- Custom packaging options for gift boxes, photo frames, and keepsakes that immediately look more elegant and refined
- New opportunities to work with photographers and fine art printers
A Machine for Every Need
Valiani offers a complete range of cutting machines tailored to the specific needs of the framing industry.
equipment for expert framers
and productivity
extra-large formats
A Safe Investment with Lasting Value
Economic Return
Each custom job increases the value of the work.
For example, a customer requesting a single mat with five openings for a photo collage requires a complex and customized cut. This added complexity raises the price, helping framers recoup their investment more quickly and increase their profits.
Long-Term Investment
- Average machine lifespan: 15–20 years
- Flexible financing options: leasing or rental to amortize costs over 5 years
- High resale value, even after many years of use
The Future of Mat Cutting is Digital
CMCs are more than a tech upgrade—they are a game changer for the framing and matboard industry.
Embracing this technology means saving time and materials, producing higher-quality work, building customer loyalty, and matching the perfect mat to both the frame and the environment where the artwork will be displayed.
