Hide or disguise it with a stylish frame!

Sep 3, 2020 | Family Framing, Picture Framing, Projects

Hide or disguise it with a stylish frame!

Disguise and hide your TV or wall safe with a custom frame

Did you know you can use frames to hide things? You’ve spent lots of time and money to design your room just right, but something’s off…it’s not the furniture, or the color scheme — it’s your TV! Your flat-screen TV has become the dominant focal point of the room and when it’s powered off, it just looks like a big black box on the wall.

Thanks to advancing technology, televisions are much more stylish than they used to be, but visually they are still just a black box. We have clever framing options so you can disguise your large TV or wall safe!

Two ideas for disguising your TV: Hide the TV completely

Or, don’t hide the TV — disguise it as framed art!

Did you know you can frame your TV? You don’t always have to hide your TV — sometimes you can turn it into a work of art. With a frame around the screen, the TV becomes a stylish part of your room.

If you have a ‘smart’ TV, you can program it to scroll through your digital photo collection, allowing it to look like art and bring a smile every time you notice it. This is a stylish and easy way to turn your TV into art.

Does a frame make a difference?

Lighting your frames

Lighting your artwork is very important, no matter what it is illuminating. If you have covered your TV or safe completely, light the framed art so you can appreciate it.

Tip: Install a dimmer switch for ambiance.

safe behind hidden frame in gallery

Hide your safe in plain sight

Safes should be hidden because of the valuable items inside. You certainly don’t want to advertise that you have a safe. Hide it in plain sight. We can build a frame that hinges away from the wall to conceal your treasures.

More clever ways to disguise things with framing!

Hide your keys or money: We can build a frame that is easy to open and easy to hide small valuables.
Show the record cover, but hide the record: Frame your favorite album or CD cover, and in another attached frame show the record/disc. Best of both worlds!
Disguise a door? Yes – you can hide a door with a frame! We can frame a large piece of art and secure it to the door so it doesn’t shift every time it is opened.

If you want it hidden, we can build a frame for it.

← Let's have fun framing posters! Framing newspapers, articles, and other printed media →

Let’s have fun framing posters!

Aug 2, 2020 | Gift ideas, Picture Framing

Let’s have fun framing posters!

Budget-friendly options for framing posters and making them priceless

Framing posters is just like framing any other piece of art, right? Not necessarily. Posters are mass-printed reproductions of photographs, artwork, or advertisements. You’ve seen them plastered on dorm room walls and movie theater halls. Because they are low-cost compared to original artwork, there are a few things to keep in mind when framing them. Your framing will ultimately depend on how you plan to use the poster — you still want it to look good!

How is framing posters different from framing other art?

Posters are typically printed on inexpensive, light-weight paper. This paper can appear wavy or wrinkly if framed improperly. Unlike original or limited-edition art, posters should be adhered to a backing board using a dry mount machine so that they appear smooth. No more wrinkly paper when framing posters! Also, it isn’t necessary to use spacers to keep glass off of the poster, and you don’t need to use the highest-quality frame mouldings to achieve the look you want.

Why do people frame posters?

Budget

Yes, you can frame on a budget! We offer budget-friendly poster framing options that don’t look cheap. When you are framing a poster for your kid’s room or for a gift, you may not want to invest as much into framing it as an original piece of art. An inexpensive poster may not need a 24K gilded frame or archival quality mounting. Sometimes you just need simple and affordable. We have frames that would work well on your poster and fit into your budget.

Also, read out post: See it framed before you buy it!

Too good to be true?

When a big box frame shop advertises “50% + 20% off,” it looks like a great deal — but is it really? What is the original price? Does 50% + 20% = 70% off? Let’s say the project is $500.00. If it were 70% off, it would equal $150.00. If it is 50% + 20% off, it would equal $200.00. Don’t let the big store’s sales confuse you — compare our prices and I’m sure we can find a poster framing option that you will be happy with.

Decorative

You love Van Gogh, but the odds of you owning an original Dutch Master are pretty slim. Poster reproductions are the perfect way to bring famous, beloved art into your home. You want it to be designed as if it were an original piece of art to be worthy of a lifetime of compliments. Just because something was originally a poster doesn’t mean that it can’t look like a million bucks after a good framing job. Our designers are eager to help design that special piece.

Temporary Displays

Posters are frequently used in semi-temporary displays. In real estate offices, hospitals, waiting rooms, and classrooms, it is not unusual to change art on a regular basis.

Collections

In a room with a poster collection, it is easy and affordable to frame numerous posters similarly. This unites the collection and increases its aesthetic value. This is especially popular with travel, movie, and concert posters.

Acrylic glazing

If your poster will be hanging in a high traffic area (waiting rooms), a danger zone (kid’s room), or moved around a lot (dorm room, apartment), acrylic glazing may be a better choice than glass. Acrylic won’t break and is light weight.

See it framed before you buy it

Jul 2, 2020 | Picture Framing

See it framed before you buy it

There is no such thing as ONE perfect frame design. What if you could see it framed before you buy it?

Do you think there is only ONE perfect frame for a piece of art? The answer is NO! There can be many ‘perfect’ frames for a piece of art. That’s probably why it seems so challenging to narrow down the options. But who wants to guess what will look good when framing a piece you love?

What’s important is choosing the right frame for YOU. Let’s break it down and show you how different frames can work with the same piece of art and why.

SEE IT FRAMED:
BLOOMING BLOSSOMS

About the Art:

Blooming Blossoms is a highly stylized photo of red poppy flowers blooming in a blurred grass field. This piece is a soft, neutrally toned print with a bright focal point. It would complement any area that calls for serenity. When choosing a frame be careful not to overpower the focal point. So, let’s see it framed with some different styles.

About the Frames:

White (upper left): It’s hard not to notice the red flowers in the center, but by using a frame that extends the background, it highlights the flowers even more. Choosing a frame that has a flowing rounded design mimics the soft curves and lends a feminine touch.
White & Red (upper right): Adding a hint of red is going to draw the eye to the red poppies, and emphasize that the flowers are the focal point. Paired with a clean white frame that extends the background, it gives the piece a subtle simplicity with pop.
Blue & White (lower left): When you first looked at this piece, did you notice the soft grey-blues in the background? Now you do. It draws out other colors without taking away from the focal point.
Silver & Gold (lower right): Many people shy away from ornate frames because they might make the art feel too fancy or strict. In this case, the warm gold/silver color combo and the soft, curved carving flows with the art and gives it formality without stuffiness.

If you are framing an oil painting, check out our post on the framing choices you need to consider. We also have a post on framing textiles.

SEE IT FRAMED:
BIERES DE LE MEUSE

Alphonse Mucha, 1897

About the Art:

Bieres de le Meuse (‘Beer of the Meuse’) was a French advertisement typical of the Art Nouveau period. Art Nouveau is known for its elaborate use of color, flourishes, and graphic design style. It can pair well with ornate frames or frames with clean, elegant lines. So, let’s see if framed with some different styles.

About the Frames:

1. Gold (upper left): There are many gold tones in this piece, so you can’t go wrong with surrounding it in more of the same color. The frame’s soft, curvy design flows seamlessly with the art, which turns an ornate frame style into something whimsical.
2. Black (upper right): A black frame is like black clothing – it goes with everything – but you have to be careful. For this piece, choose a smaller frame profile with a touch of gold. Adding a mat allows your eye to easily rest on the art without the black frame dominating. This has a traditional and universal feel so it will match any decor.
3. Espresso (lower left): There is so much going on with this art; a wide, soft dark brown frame helps calm it down. Notice the detail carved into the outer edge of the frame? That helps tie the design in the art to the frame. This is a transitional look that works well in an eclectic space.
4. Copper (lower right): This frame has a coppery-gold finish but is carved in an Art Nouveau pattern. It speaks directly to the period in which the art was created. Matting creates a buffer between the art and the frame allowing each one to shine.

Artist Profile: Alphonse Mucha

Alphonse Mucha (pronounced ‘moo-ka’), was born in what is now the Czech Republic on July 24, 1860 and died there on July 14, 1939. He moved to Paris in 1887. Mucha painted in a style called Art Nouveau (French for ‘New Art’). Many of Mucha’s works reflect the flavor of modern life in the latter part of 19th century Paris and the blossoming use of print advertising. Many of Mucha’s advertising pieces featured a single figure or a woman against a halo-like disk, arranged harmoniously with flowers and other decorative motifs. The idea was to draw potential consumers’ attention to a feminine beauty and then send an alluring message about the product being represented. Mucha not only painted, but he designed jewelry, carpets, wallpaper and theatre sets.

mucha framed print, frame comparisons, see it framed

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. Our See it Framed system can let you see what different framing styles will look like on your project, before you commit to anything.

perfect frame design, see your art framed

What do these frames have in common?

← Are the walls closing in? A new framing project can help. Let's have fun framing posters! →

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

May 4, 2020 | Picture Framing, Projects

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

Empty walls

Have you been staring at empty walls this quarantine? If you can’t figure out what would bring that space to life, not a problem. We can help you out with some ideas for framing projects. Here’s what to do:

Step 1: Take a picture of your ‘problem’ wall. If you can include some measurements, that is also helpful.

Step 2: Tell us what your idea is for that space. Are you looking to add one big piece or several small ones? Do you have any special items that could be framed that could be a focus or theme for the wall, like a musical instrument or family heirloom?

Step 3: Email it to us at: staff@framedepotgj.com. Give us all the necessary details and let us know you’d like some assistance with ideas for a room or a specific wall.

Step 4: We’ll correspond virtually to propose a solution. Problem solved!

Lost and found memories could fill those empty walls

Maybe you spent your time at home cleaning and re-organizing your closets. How many shoeboxes of old photos did you find? Cherished keepsakes? Maybe an old memento that belonged to grandma? Instead of hiding those heirlooms in the closet again, plan a beautiful display! Follow these steps to create a memorable project.

Step 1: Based on what you found, select a theme, such as grandma’s scarf.

Step 2: Gather all items that relate to your theme — photos, mementos, letters, textiles — anything that’s scrapbook worthy.

Step 3: Bring your items to us. We are open again but we are also doing pick-up, deliveries and also curb-side drop off and pick up — whatever you are more comfortable with during this time. We will help you arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing manner. If you can’t come to our location, we can send you photos by email.

Step 4: We’ll work our framing magic and present you with a completed framed project, so you can cherish your memories for a lifetime! Imagine all the beautiful projects that could grace your walls.

Fun and games

a pile of puzzle pieces In an upcoming newsletter we will feature framing puzzles and games. Puzzles and board games of all kinds can be framed and displayed, especially if you have some empty walls in a family or game room! If you were one of the lucky ones to buy a puzzle during the great pandemic jigsaw puzzle shortage, save it as a memory of how you spent your quarantine. Stay tuned for more information on how to turn some of your fun into a framed memory.

← How to choose the right size of artwork Framing games is a great way to preserve family memories →

How to choose the right size of artwork

Apr 7, 2020 | Gallery Walls, Picture Framing

How to choose the right size of artwork

When you frame artwork, you want to make sure the art is the right size for your space. You don’t want your artwork to overwhelm the room, but you also don’t want it to be so tiny it gets lost. Follow our guide to choose the best sizing for your room.

What size is the right size? First consider…

In which room will it be hanging?
Is this a focal piece? Do you want guests to notice it as they enter the room?
Is it above a sofa or dining table?
What other items are in that area?
Will there be lighting, plants, etc., overlapping the art?
Which size is more important for your art – height or width?
Are you planning on one piece or a collection?

Measure & Calculate

Calculating the ideal size for framed art can be tricky. Use our worksheet to get the exact sizes picture-perfect!

Plan your framed art to cover a little over half, but not more than 75% of your available wall space. Remember that framing adds size to your artwork!

Step #1 – Measure the open area or blank wall space.

Step #2 – Calculate the width & height needed for art. This is the ideal sizing for your framed art.

If you are using the worksheet and your art will be hung unframed, subtract approximately 4”- 6” from each side of your dimension.

In the Living Room

Just because you have the space doesn’t mean you have to use all of it. Your framed art should not exceed 75% of the furniture size.

In the Bedroom

Your framed art can exceed your furniture (bed) size because there is usually a night stand or dresser on either side of the bed, extending the space.

In the Dining Room

Because you’ll be sitting down, hang pictures a little lower than you would normally. That way you will still be at eye-level with your artwork.

Need a Different View?

Make a paper cut out of the biggest size in the range and hang this placeholder on your wall for a couple days. You can always cut it down to view a smaller size. What do you think?

Planning a Collection?

Allow 2 to 6 inches in between each piece. The larger the art, the more space you can allow between each piece. If the room already has many items, consider adding one larger piece so the space doesn’t look too busy.

What about height off the floor?

A basic rule of thumb is that the center of the art should be 60” (give or take a couple of inches) from the floor. But there are some things to consider:

If the art is hanging above a sofa or headboard, allow 6 to 12 inches between the top of the furniture to the bottom of the art.
If the art is hanging above a mantle or foyer table, there doesn’t need to be any clearance; it can be a much more subjective choice. You can also experiment with leaning your artwork on the mantle.
If the art is hanging in a dining room, it can hang lower since people are sitting.
Also consider the height of your ceilings: If you have lower ceilings, you may want to lower the center of your art so that it isn’t too close to the ceiling. If you have really tall ceilings, you can experiment with the space more.

You’re all set!

You can confidently go to a gallery or come to our store knowing what size range of art would be best. Even if you are only thinking about one specific wall area, take different wall sizes with you; if you fall in love with a piece of art, you won’t want to limit yourself if it doesn’t fit in that one specific area. And remember, if it’s unframed add some space to each side to account for framing.

← Interview with a Frame Are the walls closing in? A new framing project can help. →

Interview with a Frame

Mar 2, 2020 | Picture Framing

Interview with a Frame

Interviewer: Thank you for joining me today, Barrington. I don’t think many people understand how a piece of wood becomes a beautiful frame.
Barrington: My pleasure. I’d love to share my journey from wood to wall adornment. What are your questions?

There are many different wood options for frames.

First, let me ask – What type of wood are you?
I’m Cherry wood. My rich look, fine grain, and red coloring make a prized frame.

At what point did you realize you were going to be a frame, instead of, say, firewood?
When did I know I was going to be a thing of beauty? Have you seen me in the spring? I’ve always heard comments about how beautiful my grain was, so I knew I was destined for a bright future.

Are you the best wood for a picture frame?

I think I am! There are many woods that make good frames. Straight, fast-growing trees are best, regardless of species. Cherry is quite popular.

What are some woods used for making frames?

There are many woods perfect for making a good frame, so it depends on what kind of wood is needed. Some of the most common woods used are Pine, Ayous, Bass, Balsa, Spruce, Ramin, Poplar, and Jelutong.

You didn’t mention oak, walnut ,or maple?

These are hardwoods. Difficult to mill, but they make beautiful frames due to their gorgeous grain patterns. Oak is used for certain frames, but it is a heavy wood, and weight can be a disadvantage for a frame. Often softwood frames are given a finish that resembles hardwood colorings and grains.

Is wood the best material for a frame?

Well, you’re asking me, so YES! But here’s why I say that: Wood is a natural product with a warm feel and look that when properly taken care of, can last forever. If it breaks, it can be fixed rather easily.

How does raw wood become a frame moulding?

Raw wood stock is turned into a frame profile in a process called milling, utilizing special saws and routers to form the basic shape. The frame can then be carved, gessoed, gilded, veneered, or stained. For example, I was milled to have a flat profile and stained with a rich colorful finish. My beauty lies in my simplicity, but other wood frames can be quite ornate.

What does a framer do with the frame moulding?
Picture framers usually order prefinished wood moulding in length. The moulding is cut down to size and its corners joined together with glue or pins to make the full frame. Artwork is put into the frame along with matting, glazing, and backing.

Why are real wood frames more expensive?
Wood is a natural product, and you are ordering a custom length of a specially finished material. It depends on the finish of the moulding and its profile – is it water-gilded? Oil gilded? Stained or painted? Carved? Crafting hand-finished frames can be labor-intensive, as it is a custom-built item. Building a frame and assembling its various components involves a lot of hard work by hand. I am the finest quality frame you will find, and my framer worked hard to make me look my best.

What is your goal in life?
I have two goals – to protect the art or memorabilia that I will frame, and to enhance the room where I’m hung. That’s what us frames do!

Interviewer: Thank you so much for taking me on your journey. I hope it makes it easier for customers to choose the right frame for their art and mementos.

wood options for frame, framed photo of flower

← Framed letters and poems make wonderful gifts How to choose the right size of artwork →