How to Trim a Picture for Framing

Framing your own pictures can change everyday photos into a household decorations and gives you the freedom to personalize your treasured images any way you want. Get the best results by trimming your pictures just like a professional.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Scissors or professional cutter

1. Lay out your picture and put a matte or border over the top of the image to check for sizing. This gives you an idea of how the finished product will look, and you can still make changes by trying different views.

2. Measure your picture and your frame. Factor in any borders that you are going to use, and then mark the lines around your picture.

3. Cut around the borders with scissors or a professional cutting machine. Straight manicured borders are essential if you want to achieve a professional look, or you are not using a liner.

4. Personalize your cuts with wavy lines, a slanted style or by making photo corners on two or more sides of your picture. The styles and methods that you select will depend on the type of picture or photo and the style and size of your frame. Weigh your options before making any modifications.

5. Clean the frame of any dust, dirt, residue or fingerprints before you put in your picture. Check the view to ensure that your picture, frames and matting are lined up correctly and elminate any unwanted overlaps. Hold everything in place while you fasten the frame to get the best result.