When deciding which picture frame to purchase, there are a number of factors to consider. For some, affordability will be at the top of the list. This is to be expected in the current financial climate. UK inflation jumped to 3.5% in April after higher utility bills and tax rises kicked in. Other factors include style, what you are framing, and where you are going to hang the frame.
How to decide which picture frame to purchase
Different items will require different types of picture frames. If you are framing photographs there are a multitude of options. A simple wood, metal or plastic frame is often one of the most popular choices. For art prints, people tend to opt for a minimalist or gallery-style frame, with a picture mount included to give a polished look. For posters; clip frames, magnetic wood holders, or poster frames are often chosen. If you are framing documents or certificates, a classic wood or metal frame with a picture mount is seen as a good choice. For canvas, a floating frame is one of the favourite options people go for.
When it comes to style it is a case of choosing a frame to suit your artistic preference. If you are looking to create a modern and minimal look then a metal, black or white wood picture frame with a wide picture mount would do the trick. For a rustic feel, distressed wood and natural tones would be a good choice. For a classic and elegant theme, ornate wood or gold-toned picture frames with a picture mount would be advisable.
Where you plan to hang the picture frame will need to be factored in when choosing the ideal picture frame to purchase. If it is going to be hung in a high-humidity area such as the bathroom it would be best to avoid buying wood frames. Plastic or metal frames would be the way to go. If it is going to be hung in a small room, then a light-coloured picture frame would help to create an airy feeling. For a formal room, a popular choice is a high-quality wood or metal frame with a picture mount.
The picture frames that tend to last the longest are solid wood frames and ones with UV-protective acrylic or glass. They may well be more expensive, but the additional cost is often worth it. This, of course, is where your overall budget will come into play. If you can stretch that far then it's worth doing.
With regards to which picture frames tend to be the cheapest in overall cost, then it would usually be plastic frames. This is because they are made from lightweight, mass-produced materials. That doesn't mean that they aren't stylish and elegant. They can give a clean and simple look and are ideal for photos, posters, and basic decor. An alternative to plastic picture frames is thin MDF or composite wood frames. These are made from engineered wood which gives the look of real wood but often has a veneer or laminate finish. These types of picture frames are often used when framing certificates, art prints, and home decor.