Photographs are consistently regarded as among our most treasured possessions. We can’t deny the irreplaceable value of these photos and the strength of the connection they build to our past. These are why we need to handle these photos with care and framing it is one good way to preserve it. Photos that are not properly framed are susceptible to all kinds of damaging effects; hence, investing in good quality photo frames is a wise move and will also give us the security that our photos are well protected. Familiarity with these parts can help us settle for the best frame for our artworks:
Frame material
The best quality photo frames are made of either wood or metal. Wooden frames usually possess warmer, more inviting and traditional look. This is desirable for certain pieces of artwork such as a painting or a rich color photograph. In contrast, metal frames, with their straight edges and sharp corners, tend to render a bolder and more modern, even industrial look. Metal frames are commonly used for black and white photography and other modern media. There are also frames made from acrylic or plastic and are very lightweight. This makes them a perfect choice if they are to be placed in an area that can’t support much weight.
Matting
The matboard is the material that is positioned between the artwork and the glass so the two wouldn’t stick to each when moisture and temperature changes take place. Another purpose of matting is to generate a border between the photo frame and the artwork, thereby drawing the viewer’s eye inward, towards the piece.
Preservation is measured by the acidity level in the mat. The more acidic the material used, the quicker the artwork will deteriorate over time. Matting is made either with wood pulp or cotton. Wood pulp is acid rich and still needs to be coated or chemically treated. On the contrary, cotton is naturally acid free and these mats provide the best preservation quality.
Mats are available in various shades of all colors in the rainbow. It can also in neutral colors like gold, silver, white and black. The best choice is the one that looks good to you.
Mounting board
Mounting board is the back part of the photo frame and it is where the artwork is attached to. Sometimes is made of cardboard, but this isn’t recommended because of its high acidity that may discolor the artwork. Boards which have small amounts of wood pulp acid in it are more suitable for to use because the acidity is kept very low. There are also acid-free boards available in the market.
Glazing
The last step is to choose what kind of glass to use. Glazing is the cover that protects everything in a frame. This is optional but of course, without it, the artwork will be exposed to temperature and humidity changes.
Cute Photo Frames for your Home
1. DIY Wood Scrap Photo Frames
2. Washi Tape Photo Frames
3. Small Shell
4. Big Shell Frame
5. Sculpted Wood Photo Frame
6. Rolled Magazine Design
7. DIY Photo Frame with Twigs
8. Newspaper Photo Frame
9. Mosaic Mirror Photo Frames
Originally posted at Crafts Unleashed
10. Magazine Photo Frame
11. Flower Petals
Originally posted at The Creative Place
12. Creative Fishing Rod Photo Frame
13. Father’s Day Photo Frame
Originally posted at Personal Touch
14. Family Tree Photo Frame
15. Family Tree Brass Photo Frame
16. DIY Photo Frame
17. DIY Clothespin Wreath Picture Frame
18. Cloth Covered Photo Frame
19. Cardboard and String Photo Frame
Originally posted at Let’s Do Something Crafty
20. Buttons Photo Frame
21. Beaded Photo Frame
Originally posted at Life and Design Blog
Treasured Photos on Frames
Photo frames allow us to flaunt our treasured photos in our wall or tables without puncturing them or putting adhesive substances. Aesthetically, photo frames are also pieces of art that can give accents to our walls and interior decorations. The right size, shape, appearance and color must be stylishly selected to complement wherever we are planning to position it. It will escalate the artistic appeal of our home to a new level.