Framing pictures is a great way to preserve your photographs and artwork to keep them safe for years to come, but if you’ve never done it before, it comes with its share of challenges. However, it’s one of the simplest DIY projects to tackle, as you don’t have to be a particularly handy homeowner to select a mat and frame and hang your photo. It’s also fairly affordable and doesn’t take too much time to complete. You won’t need any major, expensive, or specialized tools, either, making it feasible for almost anyone to tackle.

    Read on to understand exactly what you’ll need to do in this step-by-step guide to the framing process, complete with tips on how to perfectly frame and hang your most treasured pictures.


    1. Select Photo or Artwork

    First, choose a photo or piece of artwork to frame that you find appealing or valuable since you’ll live with it for a long time. Consider choosing photos that evoke fond memories or depict a special time in your life. Once you pick one, you can either mat it or place it directly in a frame.

    For artwork, select a piece that matches your decor or has personal meaning. If you plan to hang the framed item in a high-traffic area such as a hallway, ensure the glass is shatter-resistant to prevent damage. Likewise, consider framing a print of the photo instead of the original for valuable images.


    2. Purchase a Mat and a Frame

    When looking for a mat and frame, try arts and crafts stores like Michaels or Deck the Walls. You can also find quality options online at retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Where you shop will affect the overall cost, so keep that in mind when working within your budget.

    The mat and frame should enhance the picture or artwork without drawing attention away from it

    For a basic look, use a single mat with no inner border. To add a decorative element, opt for a double mat with an inner mat that complements the picture. The inner mat can be a different color, bringing out a certain hue in the photograph. Neutral-colored mats work well for most photos. For artwork, you may want a mat hue that complements a dominant color in the piece. 

    Only use acid-free mat boards to avoid damaging photographs over time. Look for 100% rag mat board for the best quality. Try to avoid polystyrene, foam, and cardboard mats. If needed, many framing retailers provide free mat board samples to preview options with your picture before purchasing.

    Thinner mat widths of 1⁄4 inch to 1⁄2 inch emphasize the photo or artwork, while wider mats can provide more of a buffer. 

    When choosing a frame, it should work cohesively with the photo or artwork inside. For example:

    • Black and white photos often look sharp in simple, thin black frames paired with white or gray mats.
    • Sunset photos pop when framed in a rich red hue with a neutral mat.
    • Black concert photos stand out when framed in bright white with a white mat.

    Browse frame samples at craft stores or use online visualization tools to experiment with combinations before deciding. Wood, metal, and molded plastic frames offer durability at moderate price points, while more ornate and decorative frames can provide beautiful accents for formal spaces. Standard frame widths range from 1⁄2 inch to 2 inches.


    3. Size Mat and Frame

    Select a mat size based on the picture dimensions and desired buffer width between the photo edges and frame. Then, choose a frame that fits the mat size you plan to use. Using standard sizes makes pre-cut mats and ready-made frames easier to find. Common combinations include:

    • 5 x 7 photo with a 8 x 10 mat and frame
    • 8 x 10 photo with a 11 x 14 mat and frame
    • 11 x 14 photo with a 16 x 20 mat and frame

    If you use a double mat, ensure the inner and outer mat sizes match the available frame dimensions to avoid assembly issues.


    4. Use Mounting Tape For Attaching

    For mounting, use acid-free photo mounting tape or archival-safe scrapbooking tape. Don’t use regular masking tape, as it can discolor photos over time. To attach tape, cut 2-inch pieces and join them in a T-shape, placing the adhesive sides facing each other. This provides stability while keeping the photo free of adhesive. Turn the picture face down and attach the base of the T-shaped tape pieces along the top back edge so the top of the T hangs over without touching the front.

    Lightly secure by attaching the T-shaped tape pieces to the board. Hanging the picture from the top helps prevent buckling. Don’t forget to check alignment through the mat before fully adhering. Once positioned, firmly press the tape down.


    4. Insert Picture in Frame

    Before inserting, carefully wipe the inner glass with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Place the backing board, picture, and mat(s) into the frame in the proper order. Finally, use the provided hardware to secure the back closed.


    5. Hang, Display, and Enjoy

    Install a wall hanger centered at the framing wire point to hang the piece correctly. Position above eye level for best viewing, and be sure to keep picture frames level when hanging. To protect photos from UV damage, avoid direct sunlight and keep valuable artwork away from high-humidity rooms where moisture could seep into the frame

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    If you need extra tips for hanging your picture frame, check out our guide on how to mark picture hangers. You can also use 3M picture hanging products for easy, hassle-free, no-damage hanging.


    How To Care for Framed Items

    Check frames for damage every 12 to 18 months and clean the glass to properly care for valuable photographs. Use lightly dampened microfiber cloths to remove dust. Avoid excess moisture, which can damage artwork, and for frames with removable backs, periodically take out photos and artwork to check the condition and replace aged mounting materials. Performing yearly cleaning also allows you to swap in new pictures for an updated look.


    So, Is Framing Photos Yourself Worth It?

    For the cost-conscious homeowner, DIY framing offers big savings over professional custom framing. With a little practice assembling the layers, you can produce quality results in no time. Framing photos yourself also allows flexibility to alter mats and frames later.

    However, for valuable artwork or heirloom photos, a professional framer’s expertise may be worth the extra cost. Their specialized materials and precision can better preserve delicate pieces during framing. Be sure to consider the value of your photos and artwork before taking the plunge and framing them yourself.


    FAQs About Framing Photos

    What tools do I need to frame my own photo?

    A ruler, pencil, scissors, level, tape measure, drill, screwdriver, and mat cutter make up the basic toolkit for framing. You can also use a chopstick to help adjust frame contents, while glass cleaner and microfiber cloths are useful for assembly.


    How do I cut mats?

    To cut a mat, use a mat cutter with a changeable blade for beveled edges. Align the cutter guides to size and firmly run across to slice the mat. Make consecutive cuts while increasing the guide spacing for double mats.


    What kind of wall hanger should I use?

    Use adhesive metal hangers that attach to the frame backing to provide a secure mounting option. Choose a centered hanger to hang the piece flat.


    How do I clean the glass inside frames?

    Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to gently wipe the inner glass. Avoid chemical cleaners that can interact with frame materials. Take frames apart to clean between components as needed.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Mitchell Layton

    Mitchell Layton

    Mitchell Layton is a former professional mover who currently lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mitchell spent years packing and moving for REAL Rock N Roll Movers, a commercial and residential moving company based in Los Angeles that’s primarily staffed with up-and-coming musicians. That gave him plenty of experience navigating box trucks up and down the winding streets of LA. In addition to moving hundreds of happy customers into new homes and apartments all across Southern California, Mitchell has also performed corporate moves on company lots for Nickelodeon, Warner Bros, Universal Studios, Paramount, and more. After pouring blood, sweat, and tears into his profession, Mitchell has all the helpful tips you need for your next move.

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    Lori Zaino

    Lori Zaino is a freelance writer and editor based in Madrid, Spain. With nearly two decades of editorial experience, she’s written and edited for publications like Forbes, CNN, Insider, NBC, Newsweek, The Points Guy, The Infatuation, and many others. Having just completed her first home renovation, she’s more interested in home improvements than ever, dedicated to bringing you fresh and accurate content to help you update your living spaces.

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