Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Choose your frame
Step 2:
Gather your optional materials
Step 3:
Assemble the artwork and frame

2torial #0906 - Step 3:
Learn2 Frame a Picture (Continued)

Assemble your artwork and frame

Whether you're working with a ready-made or stand-alone frame, lay it facedown on a soft surface (a folded towel or blanket, or a cushion) to avoid cracking the glass. For the ready-made frame, the steps are simple. First, remove the frame's backing board. If the frame is metal, there are usually clamps holding the backing board in, and if it's wood, there are glazing tacks. You can pull both types out easily with your fingers. Next, place the artwork (matted or unmatted) against the glass, then replace the backing board and secure it with the clips or tacks.

For the stand-alone frame, gently lay the glass inside the frame and follow the same steps as above. To secure the backing board, take a glazing tack and use a straight edge (such as the edge of a ruler) to push it into the wood of the frame. The sharp end should pierce the frame's inside edge while the tack's back end secures the board. Each side should have a tack about every three inches.

Check over your work. Make sure the artwork is centered and not buckling. If you matted it, be sure it isn't touching the glass.

If the frame doesn't have a hanging wire, take your two eye screws and screw in each about one-third of the way down either side of the back of the frame, then secure the wire across them. Loop the wire a few times through each of the eyes, then secure the wire ends by wrapping them around the screws and back around itself.

Finally, find the perfect spot to hang it. Be careful--finely framed art can change a room's atmosphere. Once you see the difference one piece makes, you may have to start framing everything.

-end-