How to Put a Frame Around a Picture: A Complete Guide to Beautiful Photo Displays

Adding a frame around a picture transforms it from a simple photograph into a cherished piece of art that deserves a place of honor in your home. Whether you're displaying family memories, artistic prints, or professional photography, the right framing technique can elevate the visual impact and protect your images for years to come.

Understanding the Basics of Picture Framing

Picture framing involves more than simply placing a photo behind glass. It requires careful consideration of materials, measurements, and techniques to ensure your image looks its best and remains protected. The process begins with selecting the right frame size and style for your specific photograph, then assembling the components in a way that enhances rather than detracts from the image itself.

The fundamental components of a framed picture include the frame itself, a mat board (optional but recommended), glass or acrylic glazing, backing board, and hanging hardware. Each element plays a crucial role in both the aesthetic presentation and long-term preservation of your photograph.

Choosing the Right Frame for Your Picture

Frame selection significantly impacts how your picture will be perceived. Wood frames offer classic elegance and come in countless finishes from natural oak to painted white or black. Metal frames provide a sleek, contemporary look that works particularly well with modern photography and minimalist décor. Ornate frames with detailed molding suit traditional or vintage photographs beautifully.

The frame width matters as much as the material. Narrow frames (half-inch to one inch) work well for smaller photos and casual displays, while wider frames (two to four inches) add gravitas to larger prints and fine art photography. Consider the visual weight of your image when selecting frame width—busier photographs often benefit from simpler, narrower frames, while minimalist images can handle bolder framing choices.

Measuring Your Picture Correctly

Accurate measurement is essential for proper framing. Measure your photograph's height and width at multiple points, as prints aren't always perfectly rectangular. Use the smallest measurements to ensure the entire image fits within the frame opening. If you're planning to use a mat, remember that it will cover approximately a quarter-inch of your photo's edges, so factor this into your calculations.

Standard frame sizes include 4x6, 5x7, 8x10, 11x14, and 16x20 inches, which correspond to common print sizes. If your picture falls between standard sizes, you have two options: trim the photo to fit (only if there's excess border) or order a custom frame. Custom framing costs more but ensures a perfect fit for non-standard prints or artwork.

The Mat Board Decision

A mat board creates a border between your picture and the frame, serving both aesthetic and preservation purposes. Aesthetically, mats provide visual breathing room that prevents the image from feeling cramped. They also keep the photograph from directly touching the glass, which prevents moisture damage and sticking.

When selecting mat colors, neutral tones like white, cream, and light gray work with virtually any image. For a more sophisticated look, choose mat colors that complement tones already present in your photograph. The standard mat width is two to three inches, though larger prints can handle wider mats of four inches or more.

Step-by-Step Framing Process

Once you've gathered your materials, begin by cleaning your glass or acrylic glazing thoroughly with a lint-free cloth. Even small specks of dust will be visible once the frame is assembled. Place the clean glass face-down on a soft surface to prevent scratching.

If using a mat, position it on top of the glass with the window opening centered. Secure your photograph to the backing board using photo corners or acid-free mounting tape—never use regular tape, as it will damage your photo over time. Position the mounted photo so it's centered in the mat opening, then place this assembly face-down on top of the glass.

Add the backing board to protect the back of your photograph, then insert the entire stack into the frame. Most frames use flexible metal tabs or points that press against the backing to hold everything in place. Use a point driver or screwdriver to secure these fasteners every few inches around the frame's perimeter.

A Personal Experience with DIY Framing

Last spring, I decided to frame a collection of botanical prints I'd been storing in a drawer for months. I initially felt overwhelmed by the options at my local craft store, but I took time to hold different frame samples next to my prints. I ultimately chose simple black wood frames with white mats, which created a cohesive gallery wall in my hallway.

The biggest lesson I learned was the importance of working on a clean, flat surface with plenty of space. My first attempt at assembling a frame on my kitchen table resulted in a fingerprint smudge on the inside of the glass that I didn't notice until everything was secured. I had to disassemble the entire frame to clean it properly. Now I always work on a large, clean workspace and handle the glass by its edges only.

Protecting Your Framed Pictures

Proper framing protects photographs from environmental damage. UV-filtering glass or acrylic prevents fading from sunlight exposure, making it essential for valuable prints or artwork displayed in bright rooms. Regular glass works fine for pictures in low-light areas or those with sentimental rather than monetary value.

Acid-free materials are crucial for long-term preservation. Standard cardboard backing and mats contain acids that gradually discolor and deteriorate photographs. Museum-quality, acid-free materials cost slightly more but ensure your pictures will look beautiful for decades.

Alternative Framing Methods

Traditional glass-and-frame isn't the only option for displaying pictures. Float mounting suspends the photograph within the frame, leaving a visible gap between the image and the mat, creating a shadow effect that adds depth. This technique works beautifully with art prints and photographs with interesting edges.

Canvas floater frames are designed specifically for canvas prints, cradling the stretched canvas without covering its edges. This allows the image to appear as if it's floating within the frame. Shadow box frames accommodate three-dimensional objects alongside flat photographs, perfect for memorabilia displays.

Hanging Your Framed Pictures

Once your picture is framed, proper hanging ensures it stays securely on your wall. For frames under 20 pounds, picture hanging strips or single nails work well. Heavier frames require wall anchors or screws driven into wall studs. Always measure and mark your hanging point carefully—the standard eye-level height places the center of the picture at 57 to 60 inches from the floor.

Use a level to ensure your frame hangs straight, and consider using two hanging points for wider frames to prevent tilting. Gallery walls with multiple frames should be planned on paper first, with the arrangement laid out on the floor before making any holes in your walls.

Common Framing Mistakes to Avoid

The most frequent error is using frames that are too large or too small for the photograph. An oversized mat can dwarf a small image, while cramming a large photo into a small frame creates visual tension. Always maintain proper proportions between image, mat, and frame.

Another common mistake is mixing frame styles haphazardly. While eclectic gallery walls can look wonderful, they work best when there's a unifying element—consistent color, similar mat width, or complementary frame styles. Random mismatched frames simply look disorganized.

Framing pictures properly enhances their beauty and protects them for future enjoyment. Whether you're working with cherished family photographs or decorative prints, taking time to select appropriate materials and assemble them carefully creates displays that bring joy every time you see them. The skills you develop through framing a few pictures will serve you well for years to come, allowing you to create professional-looking displays throughout your home.