Preserving a vacation memory in style

Jul 3, 2022 | Family Framing, Picture Framing

Preserving a vacation memory in style

Using a shadowbox to preserve a fun vacation memory

A shadowbox is sometimes called a memory box for a reason. They are the perfect way to showcase special objects and photos that celebrate a vacation memory, family fun, achievements, events, or just the special people in our lives. And a vacation memory is the perfect place to start when creating a shadowbox. Relive those wonderful memories every day by putting them on display. We are experts in creating artistic presentations from your memories. All you need to do is bring them to us and we will create a one-of-a-kind framed shadowbox for you.

Here are the four steps to create a to turn your vacation memory into a fun project.

STEP 1:

Choose a vacation memory, such as the Caribbean cruise you went on last summer.

STEP 2:

Gather all the mementos and souvenirs that relate to your special memory — photos, tickets, clothing, mementos, medals, coins, maps, certificates… the more the better. We can curate while we design the project.

STEP 3:

Bring all of it to us. We will help you arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing way. Once we narrow down your items and layout, we can help you pick a suitable mat and frame.

STEP 4:

We’ll work our framing magic and present you with a framed memory to last a lifetime! Now it’s ready to hang so everyone can relive that magical Caribbean cruise with you.

Let’s take a closer look at our vacation memory project:

Vacation memory and Jayco t-shirt with parrot

A T-shirt form was cut from foamboard/matboard to hold the shirt taut and in place.

Maps were scanned and printed at a size that fits the design.

Individual mats were cut to mimic a framed look for the photos.

foreign coins and drink bottles preserved in frame

A sand-colored linen fabric was chosen for the background. At the bottom a framed “beach” was added, built up with a spray foam and cut to accommodate items.

In another corner we added some coins from the country for your vacation memory, along with some local wine corks.

When you bring your mementos to us you expect the best and that is exactly what you will get from start to finish. We organize, design, and create complex framing projects from your vacation memory treasures. From creative ideas to hanging hardware, we provide innovative design and quality workmanship so you can enjoy your memories for years.

Vintage or heritage?

Jun 27, 2022 | Picture Framing

Vintage or heritage?

What’s the difference?

Vintage or heritage? These two terms are frequently used interchangeably, but there a difference in their definitions. As with many words there can be multiple meanings, especially when you consider how they are used and in what context.

In custom framing, heritage generally refers to family history or genealogy, something that is passed down from previous generations, and vintage refers to something that basically means old or antique, something from a previous time.

Heritage

Heritage involves something that is handed down’from the past, such as a sentimental heirloom, tradition, or culture. It evokes a personal tie with history. Heritage can also be an item or a place that brings on a nostalgic feeling of tradition (like a portrait of your great-great-grandmother) or has historical significance (like a World Heritage Site).

Vintage

Vintage is sometimes synonymous with ‘old’ but will frequently be in reference to a specific period of time. One of the most used definitions of vintage is when talking about wine — vintage is the year in which the grapes were harvested. You can own a vintage 60’s outfit or a vintage car from the 30s, or a vintage art deco frame … the importance is more about the era it came from and not the personal connection.

Is it either/or, or can something be both vintage and veritage? Yes! Look at these examples. We think any picture, handwritten note, or cooking tool handed down through the generations is heritage and can be considered heirlooms… but these items are also old and hearken back to a specific time… so they are vintage as well. Vintage or heritage — you make the call.

vintage or heritage: image of various frames

This is just a sampling of the huge selection of frames possible for heritage or vintage pieces. Let us help you find the perfect one.

Summer décor refresh

Is your home ready for summer visitors? Give your home a fresh look you are proud to show off. We can help you choose art and then frame it and install it. Stop in, give us a call, or email us to learn more.

are your family photos damages? We can help

Photo restoration & printing

We all have old pictures that look faded and torn. Many fingers have touched them, or tape and thumbtacks have compromised the quality. Not to worry — we can digitally fix that for you. Ask us how.

We always use archival materials

Because we want your art or heirlooms to survive for a lifetime without change of color, damage from glues, or out-gassing from materials that are not acid-free, we use the very best materials for your projects. We’re happy to tell you all about it.

Go for a gold frame

May 2, 2022 | Picture Framing

Go for a gold frame

… and get the best!

“The Gold Standard” is the example by which everything else is measured: it’s the best. When you see a gold frame on an art masterpiece, you might think it looks timeless, luxurious, and valuable. How can you bring that quality look and feel into your home? Here are a few examples of using gold in your art and framing.

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Show off your artwork with a gold frame

brown and gold frames around the kiss print

You most likely have seen Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, in which the use of gold-leaf is prominent. Klimt was heavily influenced by Byzantine mosaics during his Golden Period. A gold frame would be too much for this piece but the small gold accent works perfectly.

These gold collector medallions were meant to be shown off. Because the medallions are small, we united them with a creative mat design and used a gold frame to balance the look.

The use of gold brings this artwork to life and enhances the detail. Because we didn’t want to overpower the art, a contrasting frame in a dark color was used instead of a gold frame.

This is an engraving made on a piece of gold metal plate. It is a beautiful and unusual piece of art that belongs in a frame to protect it from bending and other damage that can happen to a soft metal.

Make an impression with a gold frame

When a piece of art is this small (6×6”), it needs a little help from a mat so that it doesn’t get neglected. The art is modern and high contrast, so it is best to keep the surrounding elements the same. A simple black mat and a sleek gold frame does the trick.

Veterans, thank you for your service. What a great way to honor your favorite veteran by framing their important military papers in a gold frame. Veterans Day is everyday!

Art isn’t always flat. This beautiful three-dimensional sculpture is surrounded by an equally beautiful gold frame, creating a show stopper.

Memories precious as gold deserve a gold frame

gold frames around photo of mother with bracelet

Maya Angelou said, “To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.”

Show the mothers in your life how much you care. Frame a cherished memento for her. Mother’s Day is May 8th this year!

A wedding lasts only moments but your love is unending. Frame your cherished wedding day memory in an elegant gold frame.

gold frames around graduation memorabilia

A diploma is more than just a piece of paper; it represents years of hard work and deserves a frame worthy of the effort. Frame those gold tassels!

Military service is honorable and steeped in tradition. Tasteful use of a gold frame can exemplify that service in style.

The gold medal is the goal of the Olympics. If you were lucky enough to attend an Olympics event, go for a gold frame when framing your memories!

Add a touch of gold with mats and fillets

Use gold mats when you want to add a luxurious touch or sparkle. A little goes a long way – gold can be subtle and still get it’s point across.

This wedding invitation is subtle yet striking. The muted golds and silvers are soft and opulent without being gaudy. A soft gold frames complements this perfectly.

brown and gold frames around ship painting

Do you notice that small inner gold frame? That’s a fillet, (pronounced ‘fill-it’) and it can provide a finishing touch to your art. Notice how your eye is drawn to the focal point of the art?

← Top 10 reasons your local framer rocks! Vintage or heritage? →

Top 10 reasons your local framer rocks!

Apr 3, 2022 | community, Gift ideas, Picture Framing

Your favorite local framer Thanks for being a loyal customer! We think you’re pretty amazing, and we hope the feeling is mutual because we love being your local framer. Here’s a reminder of some of the reasons you keep coming back to us.

10. You know us and we know you – we’ve been in Grand Junction for decades and love our hometown. So stop in because we’re always available for a friendly chat. We’ve probably framed for your whole family at this point!

9. Your art never leaves the building. It’s safe and sound with us. All of our work is done on the premises by people who have years of training.

8. We’ve got hundreds of frames to choose from! Check out our impressive moulding selection. We’d love to help you find the perfect frame.

7. We’re just around the corner – stop in on your way to pick up your morning latte or cookies from the bakery down the street. Bonus points if you bring us some.

6. In a hurry? You can talk us into getting it done quicker– rush orders are available if you needed your project finished, like, yesterday.

5. You can have your art framed, delivered, and installed, too. Ask us for details about the convenient services we provide to make your life a little easier.

4. There is no harming of art in the making of your project. We only use the best materials for our framing, like acid-free matting and UV-protected glass. We take great care in keeping your precious memories safe.

3. We’re not a big faceless conglomerate that sells everything from jingle bells to yarn. We’re a proud small business that puts our community first. We’re your local framer, not a big box store.

2.We set the bar… no, not for your favorite cocktail… for quality craftsmanship, superior customer service, and creative design.

… and the #1 reason to use your favorite local framer …

1. You can count on us to get it right. We’re always willing to go the extra mile for our customers so we guarantee our work so you have nothing to worry about. Our main goal is making our customers happy.

Upcoming events to remember

Earth Day is April 22

We love the earth – it’s the only one we’ve got, so let’s protect it. Our vendors love the earth too. Many of them are involved in re-forestation to replenish what has been harvested. Let’s all do our part to help our planet.

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is not far away. What are the Top 10 Reasons you love Mom? Put a smile on her face by framing a picture from the past. Be aware – it might bring tears, too.

← Red-carpet framing ideas Go for a gold frame →

Red-carpet framing ideas

Mar 16, 2022 | Picture Framing

Red-carpet framing ideas

And the winner is... It’s award season! The Oscars might get all the attention right now, but our creative picture framing designs are a winner every time. Break out the champagne, dress to the nines, and keep scrolling to view our red-carpet worthy projects.

Best Matting:

Look magazine was published from 1946 to 1970; this issue featuring Marilyn Monroe is definitely a collector’s item worthy of framing. The Look logo has a black and gray background, so we used the same colors and pattern in the matting for a creative design.

Best Frame:

Although she was in 47 films, Jean Harlow never won an Oscar. Known as the Blonde Bombshell, she became one of Hollywood’s most enduring actresses despite a relatively short career. What frame is movie star worthy and works with a boudoir portrait like this one? A mirrored frame, of course.

Best TV Memory:

Several generations have grown up watching The Andy Griffith Show. It was nominated for an Emmy Award for Best Comedy Show three times but never won. We think this framing is a winner, though! This autographed photo from the show was framed with a rustic, vintage design to match the era and outdoorsy nature of the program.

Best Design:

Picture framing can be wonderfully creative! The award for Best Design goes to this movie buff ensemble including a clapboard, film canister and film. We made the matting resemble actual frames of a movie reel. What a great conversation piece for a home theatre!

framed marilyn monroe painting by andy warhol

Best Drama:

Andy Warhol painted Marilyn Monroe in the early 60’s and became known as a leader in the Pop Art movement. The bright usage of color in this silkscreen brings to life Marilyn Monroe’s iconic status and celebrity glamour. For our frame design, we wanted something bold and dramatic. Black never fails for drama, and the curvy gold frame emphasizes the curls in her hair.

Best Replica:

Movie posters are widely available these days but framing them doesn’t have to look generic or cheap. We wanted the framing of this Frankenstein movie poster to replicate the look and feel of the original 1931 classic. By stacking three golden frames together, we replicated the drama and glamour of 1930s Hollywood, the bygone era of the gilded movie theatre.

Best Actor:

This little movie star deserves an award-worthy frame! Turn the stars in your life (your kids, grandkids, parents, best friends…) into legends by framing a photo of them. Look through your favorite pictures, find the ones that have the most ‘Hollywood’ glam, and frame it to match that star’s personality. How would you frame this photograph?

← Unique framing ideas for your art and photos Top 10 reasons your local framer rocks! →

Unique framing ideas for your art and photos

Feb 6, 2022 | Family Framing, Picture Framing, Wedding Framing

Unique framing ideas for your art and photos

“We mostly see what we have learned to expect to see.” – Betty Edwards

It’s always fun to see something in a different way, especially when you are framing a piece of art. And there are so many different framing ideas to choose from that sometimes the final design you decide upon wasn’t what you thought it would be. We love showing you unique framing ideas and the possibilities of how color, framing material, and matting can change the look and feel of what you frame. There isn’t just one way to frame a treasure! Here are different framing ideas applied to the same photos:

Baby portrait framing ideas

This darling cuddly baby deserves to be surrounded by a frame that is warm and soft. The frames all share a delicate element, tying in with the nature of the portrait. There is no need for matting because the blanket in the portrait serves that visual purpose.

Abstract landscape framing ideas

Abstract art naturally lends itself to a world of possibilities. This focal point is obvious, but do you go with the neutral mat? Or a mat the color of sunshine? Or the color of the mountains? How fun do you want it to be?

Colorful desert painting and unique framing ideas

Rustic home framing ideas

Here’s a throwback look of a rugged house in the woods. Because it has a subtle, serene feel, we didn’t get too crazy with the design. We varied the mat colors just a bit. Which one works for you?

Painting of a barn and unique framing ideas

Mother and daughter photo framing ideas

Mother and daughter, is there anything more special? A classic black mat was used to contrast with the lightness of the portrait. So, the next question is what kind of frame? A striking bold silver, a feminine antique, or a gentle silver with soft curves mimicking the waves in their hair?

mother and daughter photo and unique framing ideas for it

Pomegranate painting photo framing ideas

This lovely painting depicts ripe pomegranates harvested from the landscape in the background. Do you choose the lively silver frame with wood accents and curves that work with the pomegranates, or the gold/silver coloring to coordinate with your décor? Or a darker coloring for contrast? The choice is yours.

Landscape painting and unique framing ideas

Wedding portrait framing ideas

The wedding portrait is timeless, but what style is best for you?

Black and white wedding photo photo and unique framing ideas for it

Or a pure white frame encircling the bride’s dress.

A classic wood frame with black accents to tie it all together.

A silver frame to soften the feel, yet still quite elegant.

A traditional gold frame with soft curves for an elegant look.

A soft black frame for a strong feel but not so strong as to compete with the groom’s suit.

Additional framing ideas

Mat Choices

In additioin to all the different framing ideas, do you know how many mat choices you have to choose from at Frame Depot? Just ask us! We have…

Fabric mats – linen, silk, burlap. These mats give your artwork different looks, from elegant to vintage to casual.
Mats made to look suede for a rich, soft look. PS – they’re not really suede!
Mats with different color cores (the beveled white line you see at the edge of a mat) offer a more personalized touch to the art. Cream for an antique look, black for a defining line, and colors for fun.
‘Rag’ mats when you want the very best. They are the best because they are made from 100% cotton. They have no properties that can harm the art.
There are ‘leather’ mats for a masculine or wild west look.
Even sports mats that looks like pigskin or a golf ball.

Would you like to see a design preview?

See it framed before you buy it! We know how painful it can be to make a decision from a corner sample. But not anymore! We can show you what that corner sample will look like all around your art before you say yes.

Different is good

You don’t want your framed art to look like everybody else’s. Come in today and let us show you some framing ideas for your art and photos.

← What are the color trends for 2022? Red-carpet framing ideas →