Design inspiration strikes in weird ways. But sometimes, you need a versatile “springboard” idea that works for any project, not just the specific samples on your wall. 
Enter the power of Unconnected Lines.
In his latest “Mat Doctors” feature, Brian Wolf, CPF, GCF, reminds us that mat designs don’t always have to be closed shapes like squares or ovals. By using simple, unconnected line segments in your CMC’s drawing program, you can create sophisticated looks with V-Grooves, pens, and debossing.
Here are three ways to get creative with just a few lines:
1. The “Retro” V-Groove ️
You can create complex-looking designs, like a retro “View-Master” reel, using simple angled lines.
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The Trick: Draw line segments in your software and set them to cut as “grooves.”
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The Result: It creates the illusion of a long, narrow opening on the face of the mat without actually cutting through.
2. Debossing That Actually Pops
Framers often avoid debossing (pressing lines into the mat) because it can look too subtle or “subliminal.”
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The Fix: Don’t just do one line; do sets of closely spaced parallel lines.
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The Magic Number: Try spacing lines about 0.08” apart. This makes the design appear intricate and prominent without overpowering the art.
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The Design: Use unconnected lines to create a “crossed-corner” look that feels formal yet modern.
3. Faux Calligraphy with Pens ️
Want the look of fancy pen flourishes without being a calligraphy master?
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The Hack: Use simple geometric shapes---like straight lines and diamonds---to mimic pen ornaments.
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The Pro Move: Draw lines that extend into the mat opening. When the CMC cuts the opening, it automatically trims the lines perfectly at the edge. No messy stops and starts!
4. Captions That Stand Out
If you are adding text to a mat, treat the letters as line segments, too.
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The Style: Use single-line fonts for a clean look.
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The Frame-Up: Add decorative lines extending from the sides of the caption. It acts like a fancy underline or divider, ensuring the text gets the attention it deserves.
Tech or Old School?
While these designs are a breeze in a CMC drawing program, you don’t need a robot to do them. Because these are just straight lines, adventurous framers can pull this off manually with ruling pens, pencils, or bone folders for debossing.
So next time you’re stuck on a design, stop thinking in circles (or squares). Just think in lines!
