Saturday, October 24, 2015

How to Choose a Frame - Part 2

Ordering a frame online is often the cheapest option.  I've used pictureframes.com since 2002, when I was introduced to this company at a painting class.  In the past, I chose them because they provided free frame samples and now they're my online pick because of their Personal Frame Shop.

My painting of the California coastline in a pictureframes.com frame.

Frame Samples - Yeah!

I ordered their free samples to see the true color and texture of the frame.  The samples were usually triangular scraps cut off when making other frames (Although sometimes I received a rectangular piece which also made a great headboard for a Barbie bed!), but it was enough to get a feel for what looked best with the painting.  Upon request, they even sent me samples of ALL their frames suitable for paintings on canvas...  3 book boxes full!  That was 10 years ago, so I don't know if they would still send that many, but their site says they have free samples available.

Personal Frame Shop - Even better!

This is the newfangled method to ordering samples and lining them up on your painting.

[Just an aside:  I used the word "newfangled" in front of Middle Child the other day.  It's a perfectly good word, but my kids think it's funny when I use words they consider old-fashioned.  Sure, it's been around since at least the 15th century - I checked the dictionary - but does that mean we shouldn't still use it?  I agree it might be time to retire "Who put a bee in your bonnet?", since I don't actually know anyone who wears a bonnet.  I'll bring it back if bonnets are again in fashion - could you imagine!]

So, back to framing...  Using their Personal Frame Shop, you can upload a photo of your artwork to see what it looks like in each frame.  Not only do you get to pick the frame by size, color, material, and style, but you also get to pick your wall color - genius!  That way you can see just what it will look like in your home.

WARNING - Using the Personal Frame Shop can suck up quite a bit of time with all the options available.  Last time I uploaded a painting, there were 186 frames available!  Still, I guess it takes less time than getting presentable and going to the store.


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