If you have photos sitting around the house or in boxes, one of the best ways to make use of them is to frame them. Framing a photograph is not only a great way to decorate a house, but it helps to preserve the photo. A photo can be framed by following a few simple steps.
Choosing Your Photo and Frame
First choose the picture you want to frame. Your choice of a picture will help you decide on the frame itself. Go to the store and pick out a frame to go with your picture. It is a good idea to bring the photo with you. If you want a large selection of frames, it is best to go to an art supply or craft store; however, you can find nice frames at many dollar stores and thrift stores as well.
Make sure to pick a frame that suits the photo; you wouldn't want to use a fancy frame with a casual photo, or vice versa. Most frames will come with glass and cardboard backing already fit to the frame. If you choose to purchase a frame without glass and backing, keep in mind that you will have to measure and cut these yourself. You can usually purchase pre-cut glass at a hardware store or have them cut it for you. Cut the glass to the size of the inner lip of the frame. For the backing, cut a piece of cardboard to the same size.
Choosing a Mat Board
Choose an appropriate mat board to provide an additional frame around your photo. A mat board is a piece of stiff backing that is placed within the outer wood or metal frame. It adds to the appearance of the photo and also serves to hold the photo in place. In selecting a mat board, choose a color that complements the photo and also your home decor. Make sure that the mat you choose will fit in your frame. Mats are available in virtually every color, with more colors available from an art supply store. Most craft stores will have pre-cut mats in standard photo sizes, but you can also have them custom cut if your photo is an unusual size.
Framing Your Photo
Remove the glass from the frame and clean it if necessary. Gently place the glass back inside. Place the mat in next, with the front side against the glass. Once the mat is in place, put the photo face down on the mat. Hold the photo in place with your fingers and gently turn the frame, mat and photo over and check to be sure that the photo is centered. Then carefully tape the photo in place on the mat with archival-quality tape, which will not cause damage or discoloration to your photo. You can find archival-quality tape at most craft and art stores.
Most frames come with a cardboard backing, but if not, cut a piece of cardboard to the same size as the glass. Place the backing securely over the photo and mat. Most wood frames will have metal tabs or glazing tacks to secure the backing to the frame. If your frame does not already have these tacks, you can secure the picture to the frame by adding glazing tacks around your wood frame. Add one glazing tack every three inches on the back of the frame. Your photo is now framed and ready to go.
