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Step 1
Shop at antique stores or craft boutiques to find the perfect black ornate frame for your room. Search garage sales, department and retail stores and even your closets to find black frames--look for unique carvings and beading along the edge of the frame.
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Step 2
Lay out your photos and artwork and measure each piece. Find frames that fit the pictures exactly or allow room for matting, but make sure you get the correct size window. If the window is too small, your piece won't fit, and if it's too big, you'll have gaps between the artwork and frame.
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Step 3
Look for black ornate frames with extra adornment and coloring. Mix two frame pieces in similar or contrasting colors--black goes well with white or silver to add a modern flair or gold to give a traditional feel.
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Step 4
Choose the correct thickness and physical size for your picture and room. Use one thick frame piece and one medium to thin piece to make a large frame that commands attention against an otherwise blank wall. Find small black frames with ornate carving to dress up your fireplace mantle or bookshelf.
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Step 5
Find pieces that go with the rest of your decor and accessories. If your room uses black and silver accents, make sure your frame fits in with that. Use specific carved frames to match other carved pieces in your room.
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Step 6
Play around with the types of artwork you put in your black ornate frames. Try black and white photographs or bright colored pop-art for two completely different looks. Mix modern art with old style frames or traditional art with modern black and silver frames to give an eclectic contrast.
