Frame It Yourself: A Comprehensive Guide to Framing Pictures Like a Pro

Framing a picture is more than just putting it behind glass and a border; it’s about enhancing its visual appeal, preserving its integrity, and creating a display piece that complements your space. Whether it’s a cherished family photo, a stunning landscape print, or a piece of original artwork, a well-chosen and expertly assembled frame can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide will take you through every step of the process, from selecting the right materials to assembling your frame like a seasoned professional.

Why Frame It Yourself?

Before we dive into the ‘how’, let’s discuss the ‘why’. While custom framing services offer convenience, they can be expensive. Framing it yourself provides numerous advantages:

• Cost-Effectiveness: You can save a significant amount of money by purchasing materials and assembling the frame yourself.
• Creative Control: You have complete control over the frame style, matting, and glass, allowing you to perfectly match the artwork and your décor.
• Personal Satisfaction: There’s a unique sense of accomplishment in creating something yourself, especially a beautiful and lasting display piece.
• Flexibility: You can easily change the frame if your tastes or the room’s aesthetic evolves.

Gathering Your Supplies: The Essential Toolkit

Before you embark on your framing journey, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools:

• Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements of your artwork and frame.
• Pencil: For marking measurements and guidelines.
• Ruler or Straight Edge: For creating straight lines and ensuring accuracy.
• Utility Knife or Mat Cutter: For cutting mat board and foam core (a mat cutter is highly recommended for clean, professional cuts).
• Glass Cutter (Optional): If you’re cutting your own glass.
• Glazing Points Tool or Point Driver: To secure the artwork and backing in the frame.
• Framing Hammer or Staple Gun: To assemble the frame (depending on the type of frame).
• Dust Brush or Compressed Air: For cleaning the glass and artwork before assembly.
• Clean Cloth or Gloves: To avoid smudging or damaging the artwork.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes, especially when cutting glass or using sharp tools.
• Work Surface: A flat, clean, and stable surface is crucial.

Framing Materials:

• Frame: Choose a frame that is appropriately sized for your artwork and complements its style. You can buy pre-made frames or assemble your own from lengths of moulding.
• Mat Board: A crucial element for enhancing artwork and preventing it from touching the glass. Select acid-free mat board to ensure long-term preservation.
• Glass or Acrylic Glazing: Protects the artwork from dust and damage. Glass provides a more classic look, while acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant.
• Backing Board: Provides rigidity and support. Foam core is a popular choice.
• Glazing Points or Flexible Tabs: To hold the layers together within the frame.
• Picture Wire or Hanging Hardware: To hang your framed piece.
• Acid-Free Tape (Optional): For securing the artwork to the mat board.

Step-by-Step Guide to Framing Your Picture

Now that you have your tools and materials ready, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of framing your picture:

1. Measuring and Planning: The Foundation of a Perfect Frame

Accurate measurements are the key to a well-fitted frame. Here’s how to measure effectively:

• Measure Your Artwork: Carefully measure the height and width of your artwork, including any borders or margins you want to include within the mat. This is your artwork size.
• Determine Mat Size: A typical mat border ranges from 2 to 4 inches wide, but you can choose any size that suits your preference and artwork. Consider the size and proportion of your artwork when determining mat width. Add twice the desired mat width to the height and width of your artwork to get the total mat size. For example, if your artwork is 8×10 inches and you want a 2 inch mat border, the total mat size will be 12×14 inches.
• Select Frame Size: The frame size needs to correspond to the *outside* dimensions of your mat. You must account for the mat board thickness in your frame. Most premade frames will specify the artwork dimensions as well as the rabbet depth, or how deep the interior lip of the frame is. If you are building your own frame, the inside dimensions of the frame should match the outside dimensions of your matted artwork.
• Calculate Glass/Acrylic Size: The glass/acrylic sheet size should be the same as the *outside* dimensions of your mat.
• Calculate Backing Board Size: The backing board size should match the *outside* dimensions of your mat.
• Take Notes: Write down all measurements clearly to avoid confusion later. It is helpful to double and triple check these measurements before cutting anything.

2. Cutting the Mat Board: Achieving Precision and Professionalism

Cutting mat board requires precision and a steady hand. A mat cutter provides the cleanest and most professional results. If you don’t have a mat cutter, a sharp utility knife and a straight edge can work, but it will be more challenging.

• Prepare Your Workspace: Place the mat board on a clean, flat surface and ensure there is plenty of room to work.
• Mark Your Cuts: Using the measurements calculated in Step 1, carefully mark the outer edges of your mat. Then, mark the inner opening (the size of your artwork). It is helpful to use a sharp pencil and draw a light line on the back of the matboard.
• Cut the Outer Edges: Using your straight edge as a guide, carefully and firmly press the mat cutter along the outer cut lines. Make several passes with light pressure until the cut goes all the way through the matboard.
• Cut the Inner Edges (the window): Carefully place the straight edge along the inner cut lines and, again, firmly and carefully cut, going all the way through the board.
• Clean Up Edges: If using a utility knife, gently sand any rough edges. If you are using a mat cutter, the edges should be clean, but it is always good to examine them.
• Test the Fit: Place the artwork in the opening of the mat to ensure it fits correctly and that the border looks proportional.

3. Cutting the Glass or Acrylic (If Necessary): Safety First

Cutting glass or acrylic requires extra care and attention. If you’re uncomfortable cutting glass, it’s best to purchase pre-cut pieces or have them professionally cut. Always wear safety glasses.

• Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the glass or acrylic with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris.
• Measure and Mark: Using your measurements, mark the cutting lines on the glass with a marker or grease pencil.
• Score the Glass: Using a glass cutter and applying consistent pressure, score the glass along the marked lines. Make a single, smooth score.
• Break the Glass: Carefully place the scored glass over a straight edge and apply light pressure to snap it along the score line. You can use your hands, a special breaking tool, or a pair of pliers. Be very careful.
• Sand the Edges: Using fine-grit sandpaper, gently sand down any sharp edges on the glass or acrylic. If you are cutting acrylic you may need a special acrylic cutting tool.
• Clean the Glass Again: Clean the glass again with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to remove any debris.

4. Assembling the Layers: Piecing It All Together

Now that you have all the individual pieces ready, it’s time to assemble the layers:

• Prepare the Frame: Clean the inside of the frame to remove any dust.
• Place the Glass: Carefully place the clean glass or acrylic into the frame.
• Add the Mat: Position the cut mat board over the glass, making sure the opening is aligned.
• Position the Artwork: Gently place your artwork behind the mat, making sure it is centered and correctly positioned. Use small pieces of acid free tape to adhere to the back of the mat if necessary. This helps to prevent movement.
• Add the Backing Board: Place the backing board behind the artwork, making sure it is aligned with the mat and artwork.
• Secure the Layers: Using a glazing points tool or point driver, insert flexible tabs or glazing points to secure the layers into the frame. Apply the glazing points or flexible tabs evenly around the inside of the frame to hold the artwork and backing board in place. This will prevent any movement within the frame.

5. Adding the Finishing Touches: Ready for Display

• Clean the Glass (Again): Use glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to thoroughly clean the front of the glass. It’s amazing how much dust gets trapped inside.
• Attach Hanging Hardware: Securely attach picture wire or hanging hardware to the back of the frame, following the instructions provided by the hardware. Make sure the wire is strong enough for the weight of the framed piece.
• Final Inspection: Double check that everything looks straight and secure. Make sure there is no dust or debris trapped inside the frame.
• Hang and Admire: Find the perfect spot for your framed masterpiece and proudly display your work!

Tips for Success: Enhancing Your Framing Skills

• Start Small: Begin with smaller, simpler projects to hone your skills before tackling larger or more complex pieces.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Framing is a skill that improves with practice.
• Use Quality Materials: Investing in quality materials, such as acid-free mat board and glass, will ensure the longevity and preservation of your artwork.
• Take Your Time: Framing requires patience and attention to detail. Don’t rush the process.
• Seek Guidance: If you’re unsure about a particular step, consult online tutorials or seek advice from a professional framer or art supply store.

Choosing the Right Frame: Considerations for Style and Function

The frame you choose plays a significant role in the overall presentation of your artwork. Consider these factors when selecting a frame:

• Artwork Style: The frame should complement the style of your artwork. For example, a sleek modern frame might suit contemporary art, while a more ornate frame might be better for a classical painting.
• Room Décor: Consider the style and color scheme of the room where the framed piece will be displayed. The frame should harmonize with the surrounding décor.
• Frame Material: Frame materials vary from wood to metal to plastic. Wood frames offer a classic, timeless look, while metal frames are often associated with modern styles.
• Frame Color: Frame colors should either complement or provide a subtle contrast with your artwork. A neutral-colored frame is generally a safe choice.
• Frame Width and Depth: Consider the width and depth of the frame in relation to the size of your artwork and the surrounding wall.
• Rabbet Depth: When purchasing a premade frame, always consider the rabbet depth. This is how deep the interior channel of the frame is. The rabbet must be deep enough to accomodate the total thickness of the glass, matboard, artwork, and backing board.

Troubleshooting Common Framing Issues

Even with careful planning, you might encounter some issues during the framing process. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Dust or Debris Inside the Frame: If you notice dust or debris inside the frame after assembly, carefully remove the backing board and use compressed air or a clean brush to remove the particles. Reassemble the layers.
• Artwork Slipping Behind the Mat: If your artwork is slipping behind the mat, use small pieces of acid-free tape to secure it to the back of the mat.
• Uneven Mat Borders: If your mat borders appear uneven, double-check your measurements and make sure you are using your straight edge or mat cutter properly.
• Frame is too Small: If the rabbet depth of the frame is too shallow, you will need a deeper frame to accommodate the entire layer. If you are building your own frame, make sure to account for the full depth.
• Glass or Acrylic Doesn’t Fit: Double check all of your measurements before cutting. If you are uncomfortable cutting glass you can purchase precut pieces from most frame or art supply shops.
• Crookedly Hung Frames: Even a slight misalignment can be very noticeable. If you’re having trouble hanging frames straight on your walls, consider using a level or a laser level to ensure they’re perfectly straight.

Conclusion: The Art of Framing as a Skill

Framing a picture yourself is not just a practical skill; it’s an art form. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you can transform ordinary artwork into stunning displays. You’ll also save money and gain a sense of personal satisfaction in your creative efforts. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles, materials, and techniques to discover your own framing aesthetic. With practice and patience, you’ll be framing your pictures like a true professional in no time. Happy framing!