We all have them: a number of amazing art prints from last year's summer holiday, a vintage music concert poster that we managed to find in a local record shop, or perhaps a collection of photos that we have taken during the last few years that are stored on our phones, which are patiently waiting for us to bring them to life by printing and framing them. For whatever reason, they tend to be stored away in a drawer or left and perhaps even forgotten in the hard drive of our smartphones, because the idea of framing them seems like way too much effort for a lot of people.
It has to be said that picture framing is often seen as an afterthought. When looking to purchase a piece of art, we do plenty of research and spend a lot of time to ensure that we pick something that we are likely to treasure forever. But then, we either go to our local high street or search online and pick a frame which is somewhat flimsy, not of the highest quality, and most certainly not worthy to house this impressive artwork. In reality, we should spend at least as much time sourcing the frame. There are those, of course, who do put in time and effort as they are already aware of the importance of doing so.
A decent picture frame isn't purely there to hold a picture; it is something that creates a bridge between the artwork and the room where it is hung. As an example, when framing an atmospheric landscape painting, a high-quality dark wooden frame can give it that traditional, cosy feel. For a minimalistic graphic print where you want to obtain a modern and crisp feel, you can do so by housing it in a sleek aluminium frame.
Picture framing isn't just about trying to impress those who might be attending your next dinner party; they also help to preserve what is housed within them. And if this is important to you — like a valuable piece of artwork or a rare vintage concert ticket, to name just two of many examples — you definitely want to look after them and ensure that they are protected for the long term. This is why it is prudent to avoid cheap frames and to choose ones that contain real glass and acid-free mount boards.
By trying out different materials, colours, and textures, you will soon come up with a combination that you are happy with, and that complements the art or whatever else is inside the frame. It's all about framing your favourite memories or a favourite piece of art and then choosing what will no doubt become one of your favourite picture frames. When you then hang this frame on the wall, it becomes a focal point of whatever room you have decided to place it in, and it will also be something that will then, no doubt, enhance that room.