During the last few days, I have been going through some of the drawers and cupboards in my house to try and find items that I no longer use or need. I find this to be rather therapeutic, and it’s something I usually do on an annual basis. The majority of people probably have way more things than they require, with some even being classed as hoarders. I much prefer to live in a minimalistic way. When sorting through everything, I came across several items which I forgot I even had. These were in the form of prints and artwork. I had bought them with the plan to frame and hang these works, but then life took over and, as a result, they were kept hidden in a drawer or cupboard. If you are anything like me, then you will also be likely to have similar items, which let’s face it, deserve to be seen.
It could be a vintage map of your local area, a skyline print of your favourite city, a portrait of your children, a piece of artwork that you purchased at an art fair or your degree certificate, which is still inside the tube it came in. You may have also had the best intentions to frame them in a week or two when more time would hopefully become available. But one week turned into one month and then one month turned into one year and so on. Most people have been there, as we all lead busy lives.
For some, it’s not that they have forgotten these items are in a drawer; it’s more that they haven’t decided how to frame them. They are undecided as to whether to go for a wooden picture frame, or metal, chunky, thin, ornate, and with or without a mount. The whole decision process can seem overwhelming.
Something that I have learnt and find beneficial is to frame the piece first and then think of which room to hang it in. Choosing a picture frame that complements whatever is housed within it is essential rather than trying to pick one that matches decor or the furniture in a room. This is because the decor and furniture are likely to change from time to time.
Another simple trick is playing with proportions. Just because your print, for example, is small doesn’t mean that you necessarily need to pick a small frame to house it in. In fact, choosing a large frame will ensure that whoever views it will have their eyes drawn right in. That small print suddenly has the look and feel of a museum-worthy statement piece.
Something else to remember is the importance of glass. If you would like to view the print, artwork, or portrait without staring at your own reflection, then it’s worth going for anti-reflective glass. This usually costs more than standard glass, but the extra amount is certainly worth paying.
These items, as already mentioned, deserve to be seen and are far too good to be hidden away. Taking the time to choose a frame and a place to hang them will help to bring the walls of your house alive.