How to Pick the Shape of Frames for old Pictures

Every old picture tells a story of the era and circumstance it represents. The type of frame used to house and hold the old picture should tell a story, as well. Picking the shape of a picture frame is an easy task anyone can undertake.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Inspect the picture for clues about its age and location of the subject. Older photos tend to yellow and fade; look the picture over closely help to determine the era and identify what type of frame may have been on the original.

2. Look at the picture itself. Subjects located directly in the middle of the photo are easiest to choose a frame for. Rectangle or square frames suit a centered subject in most cases.

3. Find a style for the old picture frame. Choose an art deco frame for an old picture from the early twentieth century or pick a rough and rustic frame for a Western style picture.

4. Search local thrift stores, garage sales and auctions for old frames that may actually come from the era of the old picture. Keep the artwork or picture with the frame if it's original to the piece.

5. Use taller, more vertical frames for industrial or individual building pictures. Longer horizontal frames serve land and cityscapes well. Oval frames work great with old, vintage bust portraits of people or places.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask around at antique stores for great deals on vintage or period frames that have an interesting shape or contour.
• Make a frame in the particular shape desired from scrap wood or other found objects.
• Always wear safety goggles and gloves when working on craft projects.