you will hang the frame. If it is going
into a child's room consider plexi-glass.
9 Allow plenty of time to make your choices. It is not out of the question to spend
several hours choosing a few designs. So don't bring everything
you've ever had laying around the house to design in one day.
It is overwhelming and tiring and you will end up making
decisions that you may not like later.
10 Review the materials. If
possible look at the actual moulding that will be used. Some
frames are handcrafted and it is very common for mouldings to
change from batch to batch. The more informed you are
about the products, the happier you will be with the results.
Finally, take care hanging your piece. Try
to hang your pieces away from outer walls because temperature
fluctuations can cause damage. Bathroom prints may bet moisture
damage, even if it's a bathroom that is rarely used. Use at
least two hangers to avoid the frames from rocking on the wall.
top 10
Framing Designer, Ana Gross, gives her top
10 tips for fabulous framing.
Ok, so you've spent the weekend going
through craft fairs and found several interesting items, or
you've just bought a great print at Artifunk.com and you want to get your pieces framed.
But, where do you start?
1 Go to a reputable framer. Ask your friends, or even the artist, if they can
recommend a good framer. Visit a frame shop, take your artwork
with you and see what the designer suggests.
2 Be open minded. A
creative framer will surprise you with new ideas.
3 Design the frame for the artwork. Keep the color scheme of your house in mind
but don't let it dictate the framing design.
4 Pay attention to details. Look at your artwork. Is it soft and serene? Is
it antique? It is colorful and bold? Then keep the design of
the frame the same. A “loud” frame may disturb the
quietness of the piece. Also, the era is important. Choose
colors and frames suitable to the era.
5 Matting. Avoid
quadruple mats, over-designs, outlandish colors. They are
usually too heavy, busy and costly. Double mats are
usually the best combination to start with. However, you may
want to try something like an 8-ply mat which provides a deep
bevel and stunning but simple look.
6 Use the best products possible. Construction is very important and your framer
will know how to properly treat each piece. Cutting corners may
save money, but slowly destroy your valuable artwork.
7 Size matters. Consider
the size of the mat border. If the frame you chose is a little
on the large side then make the mat border wider. Don't cramp
the artwork.
8 Choose the right glass. A high quality glass with ultra-violet protection
will protect your artwork from fading. Anti-glare u/v glass is
also a good choice. It can be costly but the look is
incredible. Keep in mind where
ArtiFunk.com • ©2005 ArtiFunk Inc •
volume I 2005
