Finding Quality wood picture frames

Wood picture frames are the natural choice for framing valuable art work and photographic prints; they provide a warmth and luster that goes with virtually any décor, and are available in numerous styles as kits and as ready-made frames. There are many different finishes and types of wood to choose from; however, it’s important to understand that good quality wood picture frames are only one component of the frame project.

Proper framing requires a number of different picture framing supplies in addition to your basic wood picture frames, including mount board, mat board, hanging materials and glazing. This is also true incidentally of photo framing supplies, and even more important when it comes to protecting the print. Ultimately, that is what framing supplies are really about: protecting the quality of your painting or photo from the elements and environmental pollutants, UV light and acids that can cause the m to become faded or discolored.

In addition to a good frame, one of the framing supplies you’ll need is archival quality mount board. This is what holds your artifact (painting or photo) upright and rigid. The image is then sandwiched between this and the mat board, which serves as a barrier that prevents the artifact from coming in direct contact with the glazing (the clear sheet of glass or acrylic that is placed over the artifact). These two picture framing supplies are the heart of the framing job. In order to affix the artifact to these surfaces, you have a few different options here – but spray or brush-on adhesives are definitely not among them. It is preferable to use photo corners or tissue hangers. The latter are also available as photo framing supplies, and act like mild double-stick tape.

Whatever you do, its important to spring for the best quality framing supplies you can afford. Cheap, inferior picture framing supplies will not only fail to protect your artifacts properly, they’ll make for a poor display as well. Good, archival-quality framing supplies will mean a larger initial investment, but it is an investment that will quickly pay for itself. We cannot emphasize this enough: purchase only high quality picture framing supplies.

Wood picture frames are exceptionally attractive in almost any setting, but only when the other materials have been taken into consideration. A properly framed picture is like an organic life form; it’s outward appearance depends on how healthy it is inside. Use the best materials for mounting, matting and glazing, and you’ll have made the best use of your wood picture frames.

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