How to Choose Picture Frames
Whether you need small metal frames to hold favorite family photos, an ornate frame to house a certificate or wood frames to showcase large pieces of artwork, choose picture frames that will complement the images they contain. Because frames are available in an assortment of sizes, materials, designs and finishes, consider all of your photo framing options to select a model that coordinates with the tone and style of your room decor. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Use a measuring tape to record the actual size of the photograph or piece of artwork you wish to frame. Although a label may state that an image is 11x17 inches, for example, that size may include a white border that you don't want people to see when the artwork is in the frame.
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Determine if you want the opening of the picture frame to match the exact size of the photo or if you'd rather buy a larger frame to accommodate a decorative photo mat. For example, you can place a 4x6- inch photo in a 4x6-inch frame or surround the picture with an 8x10-inch photo mat to display in an 8x10-inch frame.
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Decide if you'd rather hang the picture on the wall or rest it on a table or mantel. A table frame should have a stand affixed to the back while a wall-mounted frame will need brackets attached to the frame or a wire running across the back to hang on a nail or picture hanger secured to the wall.
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Choose between frames that feature glass or acrylic to cover the artwork. Acrylic is lightweight and shatter resistant but scratches easily while glass is less expensive and scratch resistant but breaks easily.
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Pick a picture frame design and finish that suits the colors, fabrics and furniture style in the room where you plan to display the artwork. Consider a sleek metal frame for a modern look, a fabric-covered frame for homespun appeal, an ornate gold frame as an elegant approach or a painted or stained wood frame as a traditional touch.
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Tips & Warnings
If you plan to display your framed photos where they'll be exposed to direct sunlight, J.D. Biersdorfer, Gadgetwise columnist for the New York Times, recommends choosing glass picture frames with a protective UV coating to keep the images from fading over time. Although most photos look best in square or rectangular frames, consider oval or circular frames when showcasing an image of one person, such as a school picture or a heritage portrait. Because the shapes crop out too many of the interesting background details, it isn't advantageous to use oval and circular frames to house other images. Opt for neutral colors like white, cream or black when selecting photo mats to surround a picture to avoid overwhelming, detracting or clashing with an image.
