2torial #0906 - Step 1:
Learn2 Frame a Picture (Continued)

Choose your frame

You can find complete frames with glass and backing board in frame shops (check under "picture" or "frame" in the yellow pages), art supply stores, or department stores, but don't limit yourself to these places. You can find good, used frames in antique or thrift stores, usually for a much cheaper price. If you find one with a matted picture still inside, you can easily remove and discard the contents (just make sure it's not worth anything, first!). Stand-alone frames, without glass or backing board are your cheapest option, but they require more labor.

When choosing a frame, you need to consider size, color, and type. To determine a size, measure your artwork first. If you want to mat it, allow at least an extra 2-4 inches (5-10 centimeters) of extra space between the edge of the artwork and the inside edge of the frame for the mat border. How much space you want to leave for the mat is up to you, however.

If you can, bring the artwork with you when you select the frame. That way, you can hold the art and frame together to see what color and type of frame you want. It's generally a good idea to pick neutral colors (black, white, earth tones or metallics) that don't draw attention away from the artwork.