Picture framing

🖼️ Picture Framing Guide

1. 📏 Measure Your Artwork

• Height × Width (inches or cm): Measure the exact size of your image (without borders).

• Decide if you want a mat (border) around it — this will increase the final frame size.

2. 🎨 Choose the Frame Style

• Wood: Classic and warm; various finishes from rustic to modern.

• Metal: Sleek, modern, minimalistic; great for contemporary art.

• Ornate: Decorative, traditional, ideal for classic art or portraits.

Match your frame to:

• Room decor

• Art style (e.g., black metal frame for a modern photo, gilded wood for a Renaissance print)

3. 🪟 Add a Mat (Optional but Common)

• Purpose: Separates art from glass, adds visual space.

• Standard Widths: 1.5″ to 3″ (or wider for gallery-style).

• Choose mat color that complements the artwork — white, off-white, or contrasting.

• Double mats add depth: outer mat is neutral, inner mat picks up a color from the art.

4. 🪞 Glazing (Glass or Acrylic)

• Glass: Heavier, scratch-resistant, can break.

• Acrylic (Plexiglass): Lighter, shatterproof, more UV protection.

  • Non-glare: Diffuses light, good in bright rooms.

  • UV protection: Prevents fading.

5. 🖼️ Mounting Methods

• Hinge Mounting (best for valuable art): Uses acid-free tape to attach art to a backing board.

• Dry Mounting: Art is adhered flat with heat (not reversible — not for originals).

• Use acid-free materials to prevent yellowing or damage.

6. 🧰 Frame Assembly

• Backing board (acid-free foam board or mat board)

• Artwork (mounted or hinged)

• Mat (if used)

• Glazing (glass or acrylic)

• Secure all with framer’s points or clips

• Finish with dust cover paper on the back (optional, for a professional look)

7. 🪛 Hanging Hardware

• D-rings and wire: Common, adjustable.

• Sawtooth hanger: For smaller, lightweight frames.

• Place hardware about 1/3 down from the top.

8. 🧱 Hanging Tips

• Hang at eye level: ~57″ from floor to the center of the artwork.

• Use picture hanging hooks — more secure than nails.

• Use a level to ensure even alignment.

• For gallery walls: Plan layout on the floor or with paper cutouts taped to the wall first.

🧼 Maintenance Tips

• Dust glass with a microfiber cloth.

• Avoid direct sunlight.

• Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.