How to Use Metal Picture Frame Molding

Metal picture frame molding is used for a variety of artwork. You can use these frames to add a classic accessory or to enhance your modern industrial feel. You can find molding in just about any color and style to show off your photographs, paintings and documents.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Shop at discount stores to find metal picture frames or visit a professional frame shop to look at custom-designed metal molding. Choose from traditional or modern styles depending on your picture and home decor.

2. Measure your artwork to find accurate dimensions for your frame openings. You can purchase metal frames in standard sizes or in customizable sizes to fit any art piece.

3. Look for special adornment to add style to the frames. For a traditional photo, choose a frame with beaded or rope accents or tiny colored bands around the molding. For a modern photo, look for a brushed metal with very few lines and extra carvings or additions.

4. Consider the decor around your house to decide which style frames work best. Find metal frame molding with colored matting to tie into your fabric colors or combine two types of moldings to create a one-of-a-kind piece.

5. Choose any type of art and match it with a metal frame. Consider documents--diplomas, certificates and awards--or wedding photos, which look classy and sophisticated. Pick a shiny silver or gold color for traditional pictures and dull bronze color for country or Southwestern-style pictures.

6. Recycle old frames to create a different look. Metal frames often scratch or dull over time. You can reuse these old frames by turning them into rustic accessories that give your room an eclectic look.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your photographs and art pieces into a professional frame expert. Place the art next to a variety of metal frame molding samples to see which look best.