How to frame a picture

Framing a picture? It's way more than just sticking it behind glass. You're making it look amazing, keeping it safe for years, and making it fit perfectly in your home.

Why Bother Framing? It's Not Just Pretty

Why is framing so important? Here’s why:

• Keeps it safe: A good frame blocks dust, water, and sun. It keeps your art around longer.
• Makes it pop: The right frame makes the colors and style stand out.
• Looks pro: Framing makes your art look finished and fancy.
• Your style: Show off your style with the frame you pick. Make it match your home.
• Tells a story: The frame can add to the art's story. What does it mean to you?

DIY Framing: Let’s Do This!

Want to frame it yourself? It's fun and saves money. Here's how:

1. Grab Your Stuff

First, get these things ready:

• Frame: Pick one that goes with your art and your home. What color and style do you like? Wood or metal?
• Mat Board (Maybe): This adds space around the art. It looks nice and keeps the art from touching the glass.
• Glass or Acrylic: This keeps dust and damage away. Acrylic is light and hard to break. Glass is super clear. You can even get glass that blocks sunlight.
• Backing Board: This is a solid back for the art. Acid-free foam is good.
• Hardware: You need wire to hang it, D-rings or sawtooth hangers, and nails or screws.
• Tools: Get a measuring tape, ruler, pencil, knife (for the mat), screwdriver, pliers, and a hammer.
• Glazing Points: These little things hold everything tight in the frame.

2. Measure, Measure, Measure!

Get the right size! Measure your art. How tall? How wide? If you use a mat, how wide do you want it? This changes the frame size.

3. Cut the Mat (If You Want One)

Using a mat? Cut it to the right size. A special cutter makes it look professional.

4. Put It All Together

1. Clean the glass: Get rid of dust and fingerprints.
2. Glass first: Put the glass in the frame. Make sure it fits flat.
3. Mat next (if you have one): Center it on the glass.
4. Your art: Center your art in the mat opening. Use tape to hold it.
5. Backing board last: Put it behind the art. It should fit snug.

5. Lock It Down

Use those glazing points to hold everything in place. Push them into the frame.

6. Hang It Up!

Add D-rings or sawtooth hangers to the back. Use strong wire. Make sure it's tight.

7. All Done!

Clean the frame and glass again. Check for any problems. You're done!

Picking the Perfect Frame

The frame is key. It should go with your art and your home.

Frame Styles

• Classic: Usually wood, fancy carvings. Great for old art and portraits.
• Modern: Simple, clean lines. Colors are plain. Good for new art and photos.
• Rustic: Old wood, natural look. Use for landscapes and old photos.
• Metal: Sleek, modern look. For photos and new art.
• Floating: Looks like the art is floating. Cool and modern.

Frame Stuff

• Wood: Lots of choices. Oak, maple, walnut are common.
• Metal: Strong and light. Modern look.
• Plastic: Cheap. Many colors and styles.

Why Use a Mat?

Matting isn't just for looks. It helps protect your art, too!

Why Matting is Great

• Keeps it safe: Space between art and glass stops damage from water.
• Looks better: Draws your eyes to the art. Makes colors pop.
• Adds style: Makes the art look deeper and more interesting.

Picking the Right Mat

• Color: White, gray, or off-white are safe. Or, pick a color that goes with your art.
• Width: How wide should it be? Depends on the art size. 2-4 inches is a good start.
• Material: Use acid-free mat board. It keeps your art safe.

Where to Hang It?

Now, where to put your framed art?

How High?

Hang art so the middle is at your eye level. About 57-60 inches from the floor.

How to Arrange?

• Gallery Wall: Group many framed pictures together. Mix sizes and styles.
• Same on Both Sides: Makes it look formal.
• Different on Both Sides: More relaxed and fun.
• Space: Keep the same space between frames.

What Room?

• Living Room: Over the couch or fireplace.
• Bedroom: Over the bed.
• Hallway: Makes a long hallway interesting.
• Kitchen: Pictures of food or family.

Lights!

Good lighting is key! Natural light is best. But you can use lamps, too. Don't let the sun shine right on it, though.

Cool Tricks

Want to get even better at framing?

• Keep It Safe: Use special stuff to protect really valuable art.
• Shadow Boxes: Show off things like medals or souvenirs.
• Stretch It: Learn to stretch canvas for a cool look.
• Digital Frames: Show lots of photos on one frame.
• No Glare: Get glass that doesn't reflect light.

Uh Oh, Problems?

Things go wrong? Here's how to fix it:

• Art Too Big? Get a bigger frame.
• Art Too Small? Use a wider mat.
• Scratched Glass? Get new glass.
• Wire Too Short? Use longer wire.
• Not Straight? Use a level.

You're a Framing Pro!

Framing is a skill you can learn. Follow these tips and make your home look amazing. Have fun!

Try different frames, mats, and locations. What looks best?

Be creative! Make your home show who you are. Get started now and enjoy framing!