How to Use a Cowboy Picture Frame

Cowboy picture frames are moldings that work well with country, cowboy and farm-type photographs and artwork. They often have a rustic feel and come in a medium to dark brown wood or metal. You can use these frames with any type of decor though they work best with country or Southwestern-style designs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose from a modern or traditional-style cowboy frame. Visit a frame shop to compare molding types side by side and see which works best with your particular photograph or piece of art.

2. Measure your picture to determine an exact size frame opening. Choose photographs of rodeos or farm scenes that come in standard frame sizes; or customize your frame to fit any size document or artwork.

3. Look for extra adornment and accessories on your frames. Cowboy frames are often carved or weathered to look rustic. Find frames with unique markings or shapes--like cowboy hats or wagon wheels--that complement your artwork.

4. Find the right thickness, physical size and shape for your surface. For an otherwise empty wall, consider a large thick frame to show off a large desert or wilderness scene. Add small frames lined with rope or leather to a fireplace mantle or bookshelf.

5. Consider the rest of your decor and accessories. If you have leather furniture in dark colors, for example, find cowboy picture frames with leather accents in multiple colors to capture the mood.

6. Pick the right artwork to go with your frames. Stay away from modern pop art and extremely colorful pictures. Choose instead to match organic scenes in dusty colors or intricate horse and cowboy or Native American scenes with these strong wooden frames.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your picture into a professional frame expert for advice in finding the right frame. Combine frame moldings to create a one-of-a-kind frame that stands out against your walls and furniture.