"Custom Framing Made Simple", Port Credit Village Times, V. 1 Ed. 1, April/May 2007.

You have that perfect photograph, piece of artwork, or memorabilia – and you want to hang it to bring life to your walls.  What next?  Do you rush out to the local big box store that sells just about everything under the same roof and purchase a standard frame that just about fits your art?  Or do you take the time and effort to frame each piece properly at a destination that specializes in custom framing and frame design?

            I know what I would do, and I don’t think that you could argue that having a photograph properly framed to match the photo looks much better than throwing it into just any old frame in which it will fit.  Creating the right custom frame design is not always simple and I’m sure you have all looked at the walls of samples at some of these custom frame studios and have felt overwhelmed.  The colours, the styles and the techniques are all too various and it is important to know what look you are after. 

            I want to share my experiences and expertice with everyone, and will do so in a series of articles over the next year.  Watch for my advice in each issue of the Port Credit Village Times as I try to teach you all about the world of custom framing, artwork and tips for the many walls in your home.

Every day I am confronted with people asking “how do I frame this?”.  There are certain guidelines I follow when deciding on any custom frame design for everything from a valuable original to a grandson’s latest finger painting.  The fact is, if it is worth framing, it is worth it to do it right.

            My first consideration is always the setting in which the frame is going to hang.  Is it going in a formal contemporary dining room, a traditional living room, a country home, etc.  This immediately rules out hundreds of options in terms of style, and will help to focus attention to those frames that will create the look in which you are after.

            Next, I  would look at the piece itself.  Is it bold and bright?  Soft and detailed?  Ultimately the piece dictates the frame design that should be used.  If it is a strong piece it would lead to a heavier design, for example a wide border with a bold frame.  If it is a soft water colour, it might lead to a lighter frame design using softer colours, and perhaps a narrower frame with fine detail allowing your eye to focus on the art.

            When considering the colours within the room, I always recommend that the frame match the art.  The last thing you want to do is have to re-frame everything if you ever paint your walls or move the frame to a different room.  That being said, you will find your tastes will direct you to choose something that works well with both your space and your art and your home. 

            Above all, always remember there is more than one perfect frame design for each piece.  When looking at that tiny corner sample, keep an open mind, and it should feel right when you see the right frame design.  Also, you should feel comfortable with whomever is working with you to create the perfect design.  Professional custom frame design takes patience, time, skill, creativity and vision.            In the next issue I shall look at the options when custom framing.  The types of mounting, glass, moulding, etc.  For more information please contact Christopher Adair at 905.278.2117 or visit www.albionartgallery.com