Pre-Cut Matting...
 

Hoping for better luck in the response department....

Does anyone know where I can purchase pre-cut mats for 8x10 photo and a cut signature or even a check?

Can they be purchased pre-cut or would I have to get it made at a local place?

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

James,

I don't have any recommendations regarding pre-cut matting, but I would strongly suggest you look at ebay merchant "Pictures & More" if you are unable to find any. They do custom framing and glass, and I believe they will also do custom matting. They are substantially less expensive than my local store and are so easy to work with. I ordered 5 or 6 frames from them. I gave them really unusual sizes -- 4'10"X6.25' and everything was a perfect size. And, just an idea of the price, these custom cut frames came with glass and only cost $7.95 each.

I am not in anyway affiliated with them, I was just incredibly impressed with the seller, price, and final product. Something to consider as you look for matting.

Chris

Are you sure this sellers name is correct? I can't find them for active or competed auctions.

You can buy the prefab frames with 8x10 mats at michael's and any extra cuts for checks can be done by them while you wait for $5-$10.

Frames and matts
 

Nothing beats building a relationship with a local frame shop... Pricing believe it or not is lower than the big box stores, and the quality is head and shoulders above that which you can put together from a prefab Michaels kit...

I collect cuts 3x5's and GPCs and typically frame them in the same fashion that you are describing... Some advice if you are going to put them together yourself:

1-Protect the autographs: put them in a lucite prior to affixing them to the matt board. This way you will not have any adhesive staining or potential damage to the autograph down the road if you want to remove it...
2-Try to use acid free board and backing: this doesn't really matter if you are protecting everything in lucite.
3-Use a dust cover (corrugated paper affixed to the back of the frame). this will preven dust and other particles from getting in the frame
4-Glass: anything uv protectant is better (but more costly)

If you have a standard size for the frames (11x14) and dimensions of your matt cut, you definitely will save money by buying in bulk...

I would recommend these guys: www.posterframedepot.com. They are local and will custom cut matts, I once called them with a standard size (multiple openings) and I want to say they quoted me under $2 a matt so long as I bought 50...

Hope this helps and happy collecting!

Found it!!

http://stores.ebay.com/Custom-Framing-Factory-Outlet

Dave,

Amazing tips! Thank you so much for all your help.

That's them!

I use Derekd88 on Ebay to buy matting for an 8x10 and index card. Good quality and turns out nice.