Framing a picture seems straightforward at first glance, but there’s actually quite a bit to consider.
Color and style are important factors, but choosing the correct frame size is even more crucial.
Taking your time when choosing a frame can help your picture stand out and look dazzling.
The Right Size Frame for an 11 x 14 Inch Picture
The right size frame for any particular picture really depends on how much of the mat you want to show.
An 11 x 14 inch frame will often work, but it won’t leave any of the mat showing, and it may block or crimp the edges of the photo.
In general, it’s best to use a picture frame that’s slightly larger than the picture. A 16 x 20 inch frame is one of the most popular choices for an 11 x 14 inch picture. You can always go for an even larger frame, but if you add too much space, your picture might seem too small, and it can look odd or get lost against the frame and mat.
Choose the Right Colors
Choosing the right frame and mat colors is almost as important as selecting the correct frame size.
If you’re not sure what colors to pick, you can select a subtle color from the picture itself.
This can be used as your mat color, and it’ll help to ensure that the mat and picture go well together.
You can then pick a frame color that compliments that color.
However, choosing a color from the picture can sometimes result in the picture getting a bit lost against the mat.
It might not stand out as much as you want it to, and it can look a little dull.
In this case, it might be better to pick a neutral mat color, such as white, beige, or black, that goes with the décor of the room and sets off the picture.
Again, pick a frame that goes with the mat color. However, you probably don’t want to pick a frame that’s the same as the mat color.
A contrasting frame helps the frame, mat, and picture all stand out.
Select a Frame that Fits the Picture and Your Décor
Frames are available in hundreds of different styles.
Some frames are very thin and don’t draw much attention, while others are bolder and catch the eye.
Wood, metal, and plastic frames are the most common frame types.
Metal offers a subtle, modern flair, while wood is natural and rustic.
You can also choose the wood tone that goes best with your picture or the room, or the wood can be stained a particular color.
Plastic frames are durable and inexpensive, and they offer a wide range of color options without detracting too much from your picture.
When selecting a frame style, pick something that goes with the décor that’s already in the room.
If there are a lot of objects in the room already, or if you’re hanging more than a few pictures, you might want to stick with a simpler frame.
If you really want your picture to stand out, though, and it doesn’t crowd the room, a frame with carvings or embellishments often serves to highlight the picture inside.
You’ll also want to consider any other paintings or pictures you’ll be hanging in the same room.
Hanging several pictures with different frames can make a space look cluttered and unorganized.
If you plan to hang several pictures, you might want to go with solid colored frames, such as solid black or white frames, to create a more unified appearance.
A 16×20 inch frame is commonly used for a 11×14 inch picture.
Choose a Frame that Fits the Style and Period
When you’re selecting a frame, it’s a good idea to consider the style and time period of the picture or painting itself.
A brand new picture of friends or family might look best in a more modern frame.
A print or painting from the Victorian Age, however, will be better suited to a frame that matches that time period.
If the painting or picture is older or valuable, you may also want to look into a frame that can help to preserve it.
Acid-free mats or frames that offer humidity control are a good idea for valuable pieces.
