The ABCs of framing

Sep 2, 2021 | Picture Framing

The ABCs of framing

The More You Know…

When you are at a frame shop, do you hear terms you aren’t familiar with? Does it sometimes feel like a foreign language? We’ll take you back to school – grab a pen & paper and let’s begin on the ABCs of Framing!

A is for ART – The reason and foundation for framing

B is for BALANCE – Various art and framing components working together

C is for CONSERVATION – Making sure no materials are used to harm your art

D is for DESIGN – It must be pleasing to the eye!

E is for ELATED! – How you feel when you receive your completed project

F is for FRAME – It holds it all together

G is for GLAZING – Glass or acrylic protection from dust, bugs and harmful UV light

H is for HANGING – What else are you going to do with that piece?

I is for INSPIRED DESIGN – What our designers can do for you

J is for JOINING – Attaching the cut moulding together to become a frame

K is for KEEPSAKE – A special memento fit for framing

L is for LIGHTING – You want to see the art, so illuminate it!

M is for MAT – To keep the glazing off your art

blank chalkboard in frame, DIY with chalkboard paint

N is for NON-GLARE – Glazing that has a reduced reflection for enhanced visibility

O is for OPEN! – We are open Monday-Friday 9-6 and Saturday 9-4:30

P is for PICK-UP – We’ll come to you. And we deliver, too

Q is for QUALITY – It’s what we build. We want your project to last forever

R is for RELATIONSHIP – Nothing is more important to us than building one with you

S is for SHADOWBOX – A deep frame for 3D objects

T is for TAPE – Special framer’s tape holds fine art in place without damage

U is for ULTRAVIOLET – Rays that can harm art. Use UV-filtering glazing for protection

V is for VIRTUAL – We can do this online!

W is for WOOD – What most frames are made from

X is for X-BAR – A cross-bar creating extra strength for textiles or oversize projects

Y is for YELLOWING – Discoloration that can happen when acidic materials touch your art

Z is for Z-BAR – Used to hang heavy or large pieces

Now you know the ABCs of Framing!

How many terms did you know?

Most of them are familiar, but if you knew all 26 – you must be a framer!

If you knew 15, you’ve had several pieces framed OR you listen to us when we talk.

If you knew 5, we need to see you more often – Stop in today!

Dress Up Your Chalkboard

A chalkboard: The old school way of communicating. Still a great way to capture notes. Here is an elegantly framed chalkboard worthy of the classroom’s attention. Dress up your chalkboard with a custom frame!

← Custom frame your travel memories Framing problems and how to fix them →

Custom frame your travel memories

Jul 28, 2021 | Picture Framing

Custom frame your travel memories

Remember your vacation every day!

Travel, souvenirs and memories – they go together like a hand in a glove. Some of the best travel memories are triggered by the souvenirs you bring back from vacation. They tell a story. By preserving those souvenirs with custom framing, you can have those travel memories forever. What’s your favorite travel story?

Travel memories & stories

National park poster from Yellowstone

Vacationing in America’s first National Park was on your bucket list, and you finally made it! You couldn’t believe how much wildlife there was to see up close and personal, or how impressive Old Faithful truly was. Now you have the framed poster to remember the great time you had.

Papyrus grass art from Egypt

The papyrus plant is a tall, leafless aquatic plant that can grow up to 16 feet high and is native to Egypt. The white pith inside is used to make the paper, which is used to paint on. It is an old-world craft, from an old country. But the paper is brittle and needs protection, so you were wise about getting it framed.

Print of florence, Italy - frame your travels

Etching from Italy

While strolling the avenues of Florence, you found a street artist who was selling etchings of the very view you were looking at – the Piazza Del Duomo. How could you resist? Now it hangs in your office to give you a mini vacation from work.

African wedding necklace - frame your travels

Wedding necklace from Africa

It was hard to choose from the many necklace styles that were handmade by the village women, but you liked this one the best. What a great conversation piece you created by having it framed.

Postcards from Hawaii

You know postcards are meant to be sent in the mail, but these images were frame-worthy! You made a great choice choosing a frame that looks native to the islands.

Photo of hawaiian sunset - frame your travels

Sunset photo of the Islands

Hawaiian sunsets never disappoint, and it’s hard to take a bad photo of such rich colors. Neutral framing lets the bold view stand out.

Redecorating your home office

This last year you’ve most likely spent more time in your home than you thought you ever would. You may have even rearranged some things around to create a home office or noticed that your home office needed a redo. A little paint, a new rug and fresh art – that will work! Vacation photos and travel memories make the perfect addition to help take your mind off work occasionally.

Tip: If you are working with an interior designer, talk to them about incorporating your travel memories and souvenirs into a design plan.

See some of our other blogs for additional tips and resources:

It’s all in the details with quality framing

What’s your style identity?

Framing newspapers, articles, and other printed media

Are the walls closing in? A new framing project can help.

Bringing art home from vacation

While on vacation, you fell in love with a painting that had already been framed. The question is… do you ship it home that way? How much do you love the frame? Will the dealer or artist reduce the price if you don’t want the frame? How much would it cost to ship it home framed?

If you decide to bring the painted canvas back unframed, ask the dealer or artist to remove it from the frame – DO NOT cut it off the frame! Take the staples out of the stretcher frame. Cover the painting with glassine and roll it up (not tightly) and put into a tube – plastic is best. That is the least expensive way, and then you can have it framed exactly the way you want it.

If it is a piece of art on paper, and fairly small, cover both sides with glassine, and secure between two pieces of hardy cardboard. If it is small enough, you should be able to transport it in your luggage. If not, shipping it should not be expensive. Once it is safely home, remove it from the cardboard and take it to your framer so your travel memories can be properly preserved.

Frames from around the world

← Color is a fun way to set the mood The ABCs of framing →

Color is a fun way to set the mood

Jul 6, 2021 | Picture Framing

Color is a fun way to set the mood

Use color to bring out a range of fun feelings!

Not all art is serious! Some art is just fun, and color is a big part of that. Have you noticed how color can greatly influence the vibe in a room or the tone of art? Do you know how to choose art and décor that can create a certain feeling? Let’s break it down and look at how color influences almost everything around us.

How do you want your space to feel? Playful? Energetic? Bold?

Color can create the mood you want.

Andre Derain painting, the power of color

Reds and Oranges

Reds and Oranges are energetic colors. They are used to stimulate the body and mind, promote power, and increase appetite. That’s why many dining rooms and gyms have one or more red or orange walls.

Painting by André Derain, L’Estaque, 1906

Claude Monet Water Lilies painting, the power of color

Yellows

It is believed that the color Yellow stimulates the nerves and purifies the body, lifting your spirits and reducing stress. Is it any wonder many kitchens are painted yellow?

Painting by Claude Monet, Water Lilies, 1919

Georgia O'Keefe painting, Blue Green Music, the power of color

Blues & Greens

Blues & Greens are restful, stable colors with a stress management quality. They create a soothing feeling, encouraging calmness. Does it make you think of spas or medical offices?

Painting by Georgia O’Keefe, Blue & Green Music, 1921

orange flower in blue frame, the power of color

Energetic

In this image there is an energetic orange flower. Adding its complementary color blue brings out the best in each.

flower painting in colorful frame, the power of color

Playful and relaxing

It’s fun to watch the yellow and orange flowers sway in the breeze, but the calming blue color in the background makes this image relaxing.

Las Vegas poster in black and red frame, the power of color

Bold and passionate

The red inner frame emphasizes the passion of this fun Las Vegas print.

ADDITIONAL TOPICS

#1 – White mat or black mat? Which color will work best for your project?

White is the great neutralizer. Sometimes there can be so many colors and so much action in the art, that it is hard to choose one color – this is where white works well.
Black creates negative space so all you see is the art or image.
White is a contemporary / fresh, clean / uncluttered look.
Black is a sophisticated and elegant look.
White works well when you want to group a look (multiple pieces framed the same).

#2 – Colorful mouldings

Sometimes it’s fun to use a colorful moulding in your framing project. Stop by our showroom to see the many colors we carry in a wide variety of frames, both modern and traditional.

#3 – According to color-related studies

Warm-colored (yellows, oranges) placebo pills are more effective than cool-colored (blues, greens) placebo pills.
Blue-colored streetlights can lead to reduced crime.
Red causes people to react with greater speed and force, something that might prove useful during athletic activities.
Black sports uniforms are more likely to receive penalties.
Paint your office blue and green: In 1999, researchers at Creighton University found that employees in blue offices felt the most centered, calm, and hopeful towards their work. Since blue can lower heart rates and green can reduce anxiety and is associated with money, a combination of blue and green is best for the office.

← It’s all in the details with quality framing Custom frame your travel memories →

It’s all in the details with quality framing

Jun 7, 2021 | Picture Framing

It’s all in the details with quality framing

Take a closer look at details in quality framing vs bad framing

A question we often hear is, “Why is custom framing expensive?” The quick and easy answer is that it is ‘custom’ – it is being handmade specifically for your design and your needs. More importantly, it is because of the impeccable quality of workmanship we put into every project and our dedication to quality framing. Details matter in custom framing. Here are a few that deserve a closer look and how they can impact quality framing.

Example #1: Matboard issues

Notice the over-cut mat corners? This happens when the blade cutting the mat extends further than it should, something that shouldn’t happen in quality framing.
The darkened beveled edges are due to the acid in the mat– this can ‘burn’ into your art and damage it. Ask for ‘acid-free’ mats to avoid this.

Example #2: Frame issues

Notice the ragged edges on the corner of the frame? This happens when the blade on the saw that is cutting the moulding isn’t sharp enough, tearing at the wood instead of slicing through it.
Some frame corners have large gaps due to uneven cuts or warped moulding. We like to keep our corners clean and even!

quality framing and fitting issues, mat warped in frame

Example #3: Fitting issues

Notice the warped mats? This happens when the mat is cut too large for the frame – squeezing it in the package. It also can happen if moisture creeps into the frame package. Again, something that doesn’t happen with quality frmaing.
Turn it over — is there backing paper? This will help keep moisture and dust out, but also bugs that can eat your art.

Example #4: Glass issues

Notice the faded art? This happens because the glass used to protect the art isn’t UV-filtering, meaning it offers no protection from UV rays. Insist on quality framing UV-filtering glass for your next project.
Is glare blocking your view of the art? Ask for options that minimize or eliminate glare.

With quality framing, it’s all in the details

All of these issues can easily be avoided.
All it takes is a little more time, attention to detail, and quality materials. Our professional framers have years of experience. You won’t see these problems with our quality framing because we care about your art.

Workmanship Guarantee We offer a workmanship guarantee. Ask us for details.

Conservation / Preservation Grade 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.

Quality & Design Quality framing is not as noticeable at first as design, but it’s just as important! We use acid-free and 100% cotton rag mats and UV-filtering glass. Many of our frames are hand-finished solid wood. The design is usually what everyone notices first, and our designers work with you to develop the best design for your piece.

← Custom framing your family's accomplishments Color is a fun way to set the mood →

Custom framing your family’s accomplishments

May 27, 2021 | Family Framing, Gift ideas, Graduation, Military Framing, Picture Framing, Sports Framing

Custom framing your family’s accomplishments

SO PROUD

Celebrate accomplishments with custom framing

There are few things more important than recognizing a person’s accomplishments, and custom framing is a perfect way to do that. As a child, it can set them on a path of confidence and self-esteem leading to success. For an adult, it is a grand ‘pat on the back,’ and who doesn’t need or want that? For a solider or veteran, it is recognition of what they sacrificed. And last but not least, for our essential personnel – healthcare workers, teachers, the staff at grocery stores, caregivers – there are so many that could use a show of gratitude.

Here are some custom framing examples of how you can show them you care.

EDUCATIONAL / LEARNING ACCOMPLISHMENT / DIPLOMA

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”–Walt Disney

You worked hard for that diploma – show it off!

custom framing of debate ribbons from school

What an accomplishment! He’s going places!

Go for the Gold! Notice how the precious metal is highlighted?

SPORTS ACCOMPLISHMENT / INDIVIDUAL OR TEAM

“A little progress each day adds up to big results.” –Satya Nani

custom framing of sports medals and awards

Did you know we can include not only medals and pictures but plaques too?

Show your kids how proud you are of them!

Can you imagine all these medals being tucked away in a drawer?

Can you imagine all these medals being tucked away in a drawer?

MILITARY SERVICE

“The Army is the true nobility of our country.” – Napoleon Bonaparte

custom framing military medals and photos

Memories of noble military service, honor and sacrifice.

Who do you want to celebrate? We can help!

Do you have a special team member you’d like to celebrate? Consider a gift of custom framing.

Is there anything worse than getting something framed and not being able to see it? That won’t happen with Museum glass. Not only does it have 99% UV protection (keeps your art & objects from fading), but has exceptional clarity, so that you can really see what is in your custom framing!

What is a CPF? It stands for Certified Picture Framer, an industry designation for framing knowledge and skill. It means that the framer is not only experienced, but must keep up with current methods and materials in the industry. The certification must be renewed annually to keep the designation. When a CPF builds your custom framing project, you know it’s in the best hands.

← Frame a special memory for Mother's Day It’s all in the details with quality framing →

Frame a special memory for Mother’s Day

Apr 28, 2021 | Family Framing, Picture Framing, Projects

Frame a special memory for Mother’s Day

Looking for some unique gift ideas for Mother’s Day?

Every year, as Mother’s Day is approaching, we all start trying to find the perfect gift. And we should, because mother’s are awesome and deserve far more than one special day a year to spoil and pamper them. As you are considering gift ideas, think about framing a special memory for your mom. This is something that will be completely original and personal to your mother. All you need to do is find a special item of your mother’s and bring it to us and we will help you design a beautiful frame to showcase it.

Here are some past projects that we have done for our customers. One of these could be the inspiration for the perfect Mother’s Day gift this year.

Was your Mom or grandma a fabulous cook?

Frame her apron along with a copy of a favorite recipe. Add a photo of her in the kitchen and you’ve created an heirloom that will be passed down through the generations. This is also a great way to preserve an antique apron that she may have saved from her mother or grandmother. Framing it will protect it and now she can display it and relive those happy kitchen memories every time she sees it.

Did she like to crochet, or do needle works?

Is your mother a whiz with a needle and thread? Does she create beautiful needle art that deserves to be framed and preserved? We can cut custom shapes with complementary colored mats to make her design stand out. With Covid-19 forcing people to stay inside this past year, we have seen an increase in needle works and cross stiches. Here’s your chance to make your mother’s hard work and creativity really stand out.

Does your mother have a favorite piece of art that needs some attention?

Maybe her favorite print could be accentuated with a design cut out of the mat. This customer loved ballet so we put a ballerina in the upper corner to add another custom element. Look around your mother’s house and see if there’s a piece of art that could use a little love. Then ask you mom if you can “borrow” it for a while and then wait for her surprise when she she’s how we’ve improved it.

painting of ballerina s in frame for Mother's Day

How about framing a beautiful painting of your mother?

Frame a painting of Mom. These paintings of this customer’s mom were done on silk when her mother was a child. She framed them to give as gifts to family members. If you don’t have a painting of your mother, you could find an old photo and have that framed in a special way.

Jan showing framed drawing of mother and girl

Did your mother enjoy quilting?

This is one of our favorite projects we have done. A customer brought in an old photo of her grandma working on a quilt with her daughter (the customer’s mom) and we framed it over a remnant of the quilt. What a cool piece to give to Mom for mother’s day. Now both the photo and the quilting square are beautifully preserved.

Quilting square in frame for Mother's Day

How about something playful for your mother?

Did your mom have a favorite toy as a child that she still has? Sneak it out of the house and let us make a custom shadowbox to show it off. This antique doll and all her accessories turned out beautifully, and once again a precious heirloom has been preserved to be passed down and cherished.

Baby doll preserved in frame for Mother's Day

Did Mom have a favorite book as a kid?

For this project, a customer brought us three children’s books and Jan painted the mat to make it more kid friendly for a guest room. What a delightful way to preserve a memory.

Jan is our resident “Shadowbox Queen” and following are a few more examples of her handiwork.

Kid's books and art in frame for Mother's Day

Consider framing some small treasures for Mother’s Day?

You can find all sort’s of tiny treasures in grandma’s jewelry box. Her buttons made an interesting collage and we can design a mat to highlight them. Our favorite is this project with items from her jewelry box. Just add a few photos and you have created a one-of-a-kind memento that will bring smiles every time she looks at it.

Mother's antique jewelry in frame for Mother's Day

Does your mother have any special mementos in a box somewhere?

These beaded gloves came out of a box to a place of honor on the wall where everyone can enjoy them. We used museum glass so each bead can be seen clearly without the reflection of normal glass, and it’s UV protected to preserve the art. Talk about some beautiful heirlooms!

And finally, we can’t forget kid’s art

Mom’s and Grandma’s love kids art! Seriously, they go ga ga over the drawings and paintings you made when you were a kid. We can even design a frame you that makes it easy to change out the art as the kids grow up. You’ll never go wrong giving a mother her child’s art as a present, only now it will be beautifully framed and preserved.

So no matter what you frame for Mom it will make her smile and after all isn’t that the point.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there from the Frame Depot.

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