Photographs, artworks, pictures. They can be beautiful, but when you put them in a frame, you can either enhance or ruin them. How do you choose the right frames for your visual displays? We all like our stories and memories to be part of our homes, whether that’s family photos, a precious piece of art, or a bold print. All of them deserve a frame that will not only protect the image but complement its aesthetics and convey the intended message. As one of the favourite and easily accessible designer accessories for home decor, photo frames have unlimited possibilities to make every space more appealing.
Choose the Right Frames
With the endless offers on the market today, it can be quite overwhelming to select the best size, material, or style, so will go over some factors you should keep in mind when selecting the frames for your images. Selecting the perfect frame is the foundation of successful picture framing. This does not necessarily mean you need expensive materials. Sometimes, well-chosen cheap frames can do the trick and make your photos stand out. Consider the following factors:
What Materials Are Best for Frames?
Frames come in various materials like wood, metal, and plastic. Choose one that harmonizes with the image’s style.
- Wood: Wooden frames are classic and versatile. They can be stained, painted, or left in their natural state to match different styles. Hardwoods like oak, walnut, and maple offer durability, while softer woods like pine can provide a more rustic look. While wood can be more expensive, you can find discount picture frames that are nice and affordable.
- Metal: Metal frames, often made of aluminium or steel, offer a modern and sleek appearance. They are lightweight and come in various finishes, such as brushed, polished, or matte.
- Plastic: Plastic frames are budget-friendly and come in numerous colours and styles. These cheap picture frames are less durable than wood or metal but can work well for temporary displays or in spaces where a more casual look is desired.
- Bamboo and Rattan: These materials provide an eco-friendly and natural aesthetic, ideal for bohemian or tropical-themed interiors.
What Colour Is Best for Frames?
There’s not one right answer here. The frame colour should enhance the picture without overwhelming it. Neutral tones are versatile, but bold choices can make a statement. So, if you want to keep all the attention on the content of the image, go with more neutral colours, like beige, light brown, or white. Black can be both simplistic and bold, and it’s the perfect choice for black-and-white photos or when you are creating a gallery with more pictures. If you want to make the image stand out, you can choose a colour that is in contrast with the colours in the photo or poster and you will achieve a more dramatic effect.
What Size Picture Frame Do I Need?
Ensure the frame is proportionate to the image. Mats can help adjust size disparities. Choosing the right frame size is crucial for proper visual balance and impact. The size of the artwork or photograph, the available wall space, and the surrounding decor will also influence the choice.
- Standard Sizes: Common frame sizes include 4×6, 5×7, 8×10, and 11×14 inches. These are suitable for smaller displays or when creating a gallery wall with multiple pieces.
- Poster Sizes: Larger frames, such as 18×24 or 24×36 inches, are perfect for posters and larger artwork. These sizes are often used for movie posters, promotional prints, or statement pieces.
- Custom Sizes: For non-standard or unique sizes, custom framing is the best option. It ensures a precise fit and allows for creative flexibility.
Do You Need a Mat Board?
Mat boards serve both aesthetic and protective purposes. They create a border between the artwork and the frame, enhancing the visual impact and preventing direct contact, which can lead to damage over time. Here are a few things you should know about mat boards:
- Color and Texture: Mat boards are available in a range of colours and textures. Neutral tones like white, off-white, and black are popular choices as they complement various artworks. Textured mats add depth and visual interest.
- Border Width: The width of the mat’s border, also known as the “reveal,” affects the overall look. A wider mat provides a sense of elegance and importance, while a narrower mat gives a contemporary and sleek appearance.
- Protection: Mats create a space between the artwork and the glazing (glass or acrylic) that helps prevent moisture buildup, sticking, and potential damage from touching the glazing directly.
- Visual Focus: Mats can draw the viewer’s eye to the artwork by providing a transition between the artwork and the surrounding wall. They also help in emphasizing specific details within the piece.
Style and Display
The styles of frames range from classic to contemporary. Whether you have exquisite or cheap frames, the style needs to match both the picture’s genre and the overall vibe of the surroundings. Think about where you are going to display the piece and what the style of the room is. The right picture frame should complement the interior and elevate the beauty of the image. Another point to consider is whether this is a one-of-a-kind image that will stand alone, or it will be part of a gallery display.
In the first case, you can go for bolder frames that will make a statement. In the second, you need to create a flow and you can use similar frames to unite the overall look. Choose a suitable location, consider the lighting and eye level, and when you hang the pictures don’t forget to take into account the frame’s weight and the wall type. You will need appropriate hanging hardware to ensure they stay in place.