Photo frames of all shapes and sizes can be found anywhere; yard sales, thrift stores, or packed away in closets and attics. Frames are received as gifts and are often never used or they reside in one place forever. There are, however, solutions for knick-knacky or oddly sized photo frames.
Do Not Frame Photos
Frames do not have to be used for just photos. A nice expensive oversized frame can work wonders in a living room or bedroom. Often people wonder how to incorporate a modern television into the design of a room. Simply mount the television on the wall and mount a frame around it. Frames are easier to find than televisions when it comes to the design of a room.
In dining rooms with chair rails, decorators and designers can make frames out of molding and place them under the chair rail. This helps create dimension. Also in the dining room don't be afraid to high-light sections of the wallpaper by adding an empty frame. Another good idea is to paint a mural on the wall and use a frame to give it a finished look. This can be done in large and small spaces using either large or small frames.
Frames can also showcase interesting travel items or antiques. This idea is similar to old shadow boxes.
Use Small Frames for Large Spaces
Often people think they need to buy a large piece of artwork to balance a large blank wall. Here is an idea that uses many small frames. For a unified look, paint multiple frames all the same color. Black works well or a decorator can use an accent color to paint all the frames. Arrange the frames on the floor the way you want them. This is a good tip to reduce the number of nail holes. For a classy or modern look put all the photos in black and white. For a warmer feeling keep some of the photos in color. Photos can be grouped by season or subject. Then hang everything up. To create a "store-bought" look use matching frames with flat sides. These frames can be screwed together to create one larger piece to hang on the wall. This is also a good way reduce the number of nail holes in the wall.
Do Not Be Afraid to Change the Frame
There are always frames, but sometimes it is hard to find them in the right style or color. Frames can be changed in many ways.
- They can be painted. One example is to carry a wallpaper or fabric pattern onto the frame instead of just painting it an accent or solid color.
- Distressing a frame is pretty easy to do. Use a hammer to make the wood uneven and be sure to sand away any varnish.
- Attaching molding to a frame can also drastically change the style of a frame.
Jen Sheetz - Jen is the Arts and Entertainment editor for her campus paper. She is pursuing degrees in journalism and English.
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