Purchasing a custom made picture frame can seem like a daunting task to the first-time picture frame buyer. However, it does not have to be. By understanding some picture framing basics and rules-of-thumb, anybody can learn to put together attractive, eye-catching picture frame packages. This can be helpful for any type of buyer, whether looking for a standard-size frame, a custom frame or whether purchasing on-line or in a traditional bricks-and-mortar store.

The most important thing to understand when purchasing any type of picture frame is the major components of a frame. Knowing these will help guide the buyer during the framing process and will most certainly help ensure that the framing project is headed in the right direction. These major components are 1) the actual frame, 2) matting board, 3) mounting board and 4) protective glazing. This article covers each of these in detail.

The Frame

First we begin with the actual frame. High quality frames are available in either wood or metal (plastic should be avoided as it cracks and warps easily). Usually, this is one of the most straight-forward decisions in the process as most customers have a pretty good idea whether they are looking for wood or metal. If this is not the case, the best thing to do is just browse around (either online or in the store) to see what looks right to the eye. It is important to not be intimidated by the huge selection of frames. Feel free to take your time and try many alternatives. Remember, your picture frame will probably hang on your wall for years to come; this is reason enough not to rush.

Metal frames are available in relatively simple designs, are less expensive, and offered in many vibrant colors and creative names such as Gunmetal Silver and Lapis and Rosewine. Wood frames in contrast come in a host of rich wood tone colors and unique shapes from a round mold to elaborate decorative and beveled designs. A rule of thumb to remember is that wood frames generally offer a richer and more traditional look than metal frames, which tend to have a more industrial look.

The final decision regarding which type of picture frame to use will depend mostly on the framer’s personal preferences, as well as the artwork being framed. For example, a black and white photograph might look very smart in a simple black metal frame. Conversely it would be a challenge to find someone eager to suggest that the Mona Lisa be framed in metal.

Matting Board

Once a decision has been made regarding which kind of picture frame material to use, the second step is to decide upon which matting board color will work best. Matting board (sometimes called “mat board” or simply “matting”) is a colored, paper-based product which is put between the glass and the artwork. The first purpose of matting is to create a gap of air between the artwork and the glass. This helps control humidity inside of the frame, as well as physically separate the artwork from the glass. If this is not done, there is a risk that after some time the two will adhere to one another, thereby ruining the artwork as it must be peeled away from the glass. A second reason to use matting is to create an aesthetically pleasing color border which will separate the frame from the artwork.

Selecting a mat color is purely a personal choice and it is best to choose a color that compliments the artwork. There are literally hundreds of matting color choices. The best way to choose a color is to hold up a cut sample next to the artwork. Holding the sample next to the artwork will give an idea what the framed piece will look like with the matting in question. When in doubt, a useful rule of thumb is to simply choose a white or off-white (Ivory for example) mat. White is a neutral and traditional color and will most likely compliment any work of art. In fact, some photography competitions require that entries use white matting to facilitate the judging process.

Mounting Board

Once the frame and mat are decided upon, the picture framer needs to attach the artwork to something; these so-called mounting boards (sometimes called foam boards) are paper-based products that fit inside of the frame package. Sometimes hobbyists like to use cardboard as a mounting option. However this should be avoided with any artwork that has even the smallest value because cardboard contains a high amount of acid which will bleed onto to artwork. Acid damage causes the artwork to become brittle and to turn yellow much like an old newspaper. Quality mounting boards will have a smooth finish for easily mounting the artwork; they will resist warping and bending and will be easy to cut with a utility knife.

Glazing

The last major decision that a framer needs to make has to do with glazing. Glazing is the transparent cover on a picture frame. It is available in museum glass or framing-grade acyclic (commonly referred to by its trade name Plexiglas). The purpose of glazing is to seal the artwork inside the frame thereby creating a protective barrier from dust, dirt and any potential damage that can occur during transportation. While many people shy away from Plexiglas because it is not traditional, the truth is that it takes a trained eye to see the difference between real glass and Plexiglas; and even the professionals get it wrong sometimes. A huge advantage of Plexiglas is that it will not break; if glass breaks in a frame, it will most likely seriously damage the artwork. To illustrate this point, one will rarely find heirloom or other very high value pieces enclosed in glass. It is simply too risky.

These are the major components of a frame. By understanding them, we hope that even the occasional framer will have a better idea of the steps taken to put together a picture frame package. This in turn should make the framing process smoother and less stressful whether purchasing a picture frame in a retail store or on-line. And as always happy framing!