Personalize This: Framed Art
Framed art - including photographs and illustrations - is not just for collectors of van Gogh and Monet. Anyone can enjoy framed art in their home at any budget - and matting and framing your own masterpieces can be fun!
With a few basic supplies, you can frame your own art or take a basic store-bought frame and make it worthy of the Louvre! Here are a few basics to get started.
Mat Board - In between the frame and the art is a protective mat, usually with 2 layers which go behind and around the image. Opt for acid-free when possible to protect the art from discoloration over time. You can get creative with the thickness to create depth.
Embellishments - Whether using the mat in a store-bought frame or cutting it yourself, you can embellish the mat to enhance the art. Covering the mat in fabric or adding a border of ribbon can create a finished look.
Tape - Hold the art and mat in place within the frame using linen hanging tape. Connect the two layers of the mat by placing them side-by side and connecting with tape to create a hinge. Fold the top layer over the bottom.
Paper Backing - Use a kraft paper backing to seal the back of the frame and keep dust out. After gluing and trimming the edges, spritz the paper with water and thoroughly dry it with a hair dryer until it pulls tight.
Hanging Wire - Position hanging wire 1/3rd of the way from the top of the frame. Start with a length of wire about 12 inches longer than the width of the frame, and wrap the ends around the hardware leaving 2-4 inches of slack. Position rubber bumpers to the bottom corners of the frame.
Voila! Instant art for you home or an original gift to share.
Nancy Palmer, CRS
Broker Associate
REALTOR®
DRE #00525350
Compass | Woodside
D 650.492.0200 | O 650.529.1111
www.NancyPalmer.com
Image courtesy of Lydia Jacobs / PublicDomainPictures.net