Finding the Perfect Fit: A Guide to 6x9 and 6x6 Frames at Michaels
Walking into a Michaels store can feel like entering an artist's wonderland, brimming with potential for your next creative project. For many, that project begins with the simple yet crucial task of finding the right picture frame. Two sizes that often come up in the search are the 6x9 inch and the 6x6 inch formats. Whether you're preserving a cherished horizontal photograph or showcasing a perfect square Instagram print, understanding your framing options at a major retailer like Michaels is the first step to displaying your memories beautifully.
Understanding Frame Sizes: 6x9 vs. 6x6
Before diving into the specific offerings at Michaels, it's important to clarify what these sizes represent. A 6x9 frame is designed for prints that are six inches high and nine inches wide. This is a classic horizontal format, ideal for landscape-oriented photos, certain types of artwork, and even small certificates or documents. The elongated shape lends itself well to storytelling, guiding the viewer's eye across the image.
On the other hand, a 6x6 frame is a perfect square. This format has seen a massive resurgence in popularity, thanks largely to vintage medium-format cameras and modern mobile photography apps that produce square images. A square frame creates a sense of balance, focus, and modernity. It centers the subject, making it powerful for portraits, abstract art, and any composition where you want to draw attention directly to the center.
Navigating the Michaels Frame Aisle
Michaels is renowned for its extensive selection of frames, catering to virtually every size, style, and budget. When searching for either a 6x9 or 6x6 frame, your journey will likely lead you to a few key sections within the store. The most common places to find these sizes are in the ready-made frame aisle. Here, you'll find single frames packaged and hung on displays, organized by size and style.
For a more customizable approach, don't overlook the frame department, often located at the back of the store. Here, you can find a wider array of styles and even explore custom framing options if you have a particularly valuable or unusually sized 6x9 or 6x6 piece that needs special attention. The staff in this area are typically knowledgeable and can help you choose the right matting and glass to protect and enhance your artwork.
My most recent trip to Michaels was to frame a 6x6 charcoal sketch given to me by a friend. I initially headed to the standard aisle and found a few simple black square frames. While they were suitable, I wanted something a little more distinctive. I ventured to the frame department and was pleasantly surprised to find a section dedicated to smaller, decorative square frames. I ended up choosing a rustic, wooden 6x6 frame with a slight distressed finish that complemented the texture of the sketch perfectly. It was a reminder that sometimes digging a little deeper past the main displays yields the best results.
Popular Styles and Materials for 6x9 and 6x6 Frames
Michaels offers these frames in a diverse range of designs to match any home decor aesthetic. For a modern and minimalist look, you'll find sleek 6x9 frames in black, white, or natural wood with clean lines. For a more traditional or ornate feel, gold or silver leaf frames with detailed moulding are available, often in the 6x9 size to accommodate classic portraits.
Square 6x6 frames frequently appear in collections that lean contemporary, farmhouse, or eclectic. Materials can range from clear acrylic for a barely-there look to reclaimed barn wood for a touch of rustic charm. A popular trend is the multi-opening frame, where you might find a single frame designed to hold several 6x6 prints in a grid pattern, creating a dynamic gallery wall effect from a single purchase.
Beyond the Single Frame: Creative Project Ideas
A frame is more than just a border; it's a part of the presentation. Here are a few creative ways to use your 6x9 and 6x6 finds from Michaels:
- Curated Gallery Walls: Mix and match 6x9 and 6x6 frames for a visually engaging gallery wall. The contrast between horizontal rectangles and squares adds rhythm and interest. Stick to a consistent color palette or material to keep the arrangement cohesive.
- Shadow Box Displays: While less common in these exact sizes, Michaels does carry shadow box styles. A 6x9 shadow box could be perfect for displaying a child's first pair of shoes, a concert ticket stub, and a photo from the event, all together in a layered, meaningful display.
- Tabletop Collections: Group several 6x6 frames together on a shelf or mantel. You can rotate seasonal prints, family photos, or inspirational quotes throughout the year for a constantly fresh decor element.
Tips for a Successful Framing Trip to Michaels
To ensure you find exactly what you're looking for, a little preparation goes a long way. First, always double-check the actual measurements of your print before you go. Sizes can be listed by the overall frame dimensions or the viewable opening, so knowing your print's exact size will prevent any frustration. Second, remember to check online. The Michaels website and app often have a more complete inventory list than what might be immediately visible on the store floor. You can sometimes find online-only styles or check stock at your local store to save a trip.
Finally, always keep an eye out for sales and coupons. Michaels is famous for its regular promotions, and frames are almost always included. Signing up for their newsletter or downloading the app is the easiest way to receive a steady stream of discounts, making your framing project both beautiful and budget-friendly.
Finding the right frame, whether it's a 6x9 for a sprawling landscape or a 6x6 for a intimate portrait, is about honoring the memory or artwork it holds. Michaels provides a accessible and varied playground for this creative endeavor. With a keen eye and a little patience, you can find the perfect finishing touch to make your cherished pieces shine on your wall, shelf, or desk.
