Using Photography Frames?

Using Photography Frames? Framing Solutions for Photographers and Artists

Picture framing kits are one easy way to provide a home for your photographic or other two dimensional artworks. There are many good reasons why you don’t want to simply tack your pictures to the wall, and aesthetics are only one part of it. Without good picture or photography frames, your carefully crafted image will be exposed to the ravages of humidity, airborne pollution and ultraviolet light – with disastrous results. Picture framing kits not only look nice; they help to preserve your work.
What You’ll Need

The great thing about many picture framing kits is that for the most part, you won’t need much in the way of tools other than a good razor or hobby knife (such as an X-Acto™ knife). At a minimum, you’ll need the following framing and matting supplies:

• Backing, or mat board
• Some type of non-porous barrier material
• Back and window mat material
• Photographic paper adhesive or hinges/photo corners
• Glazing (glass or acrylic)
• The frame proper

What types of ready made picture frames are best? That depends on several issues, namely (A) your budget, (B) the type of photo or painting, (C) the décor of the room in which the artifact is to be displayed, and (D) your own personal preference. Wood picture frames are highly attractive and appropriate for almost any kind of image. They can also be very expensive, and depending on the décor of the room in which the artifact is to be displayed, finding just the right selection among available wood picture frames can be challenging.

Metal picture frames appeal to some people, and in fact can enhance the display of modern art and/or contemporary urban or abstract landscapes. These come in a wide range of prices, and generally may be less expensive than wood picture frames.
Custom Picture Frames

You won’t generally find these included in picture framing kits, since they are indeed “custom made” to order. However, if your painting or photo prints are of non-standard sizes, it may be necessary to order custom picture frames – or create your own. Advanced picture framing kits sometimes include the kinds of tools you’ll need to create your own custom picture frames, but doing this requires a certain amount of skill.
The Cost

Again, there is a lot of variation here; prices on picture framing kits can range from $30 to $150. Again, this depends on the quality and the kinds of materials and tools that are included. A good rule of thumb when shopping for framing and matting supplies is to purchase the best picture framing kits you can afford.

Susan Slobac is an avid photographer. Susan believes a picture frame is more than just fashion; it's a safeguard for something you love.