˜ Choosing the perfect frame ˜

Lots more people are buying original art or good quality prints these days despite the recession. The overall effect of a well framed print can be as substantial as curtains or lighting and probably cheaper. It is the location and frame style of a picture that can make or break a room. Like all aspects of decorating there are a few simple rules to follow. The way pictures are displayed can either create an illusion of space, height or bring everything together with a cosy feel.

A hallway is the place to set the scene and give your visitors a good impression. The addition of a well placed mirror can add light where there is gloom whilst a row of matching framed prints or photo's will add width to a narrow corridor, as well as creating interest on a long blank wall. Make sure everything is hung at viewing height that’s level with your eyes and that any mirrors used do not reflect ugly fittings like thermostats or heating switches. If you have a problem finding a mirror of just the right size or style, do not forget that Frame-Abel can make exactly what you require. In a hallway or corridor multiaperture frames are an excellent way of displaying photo's or a collection of postcards to add a personal feel to a hall.

Moving on to the living area, art can be used to define different areas, lock onto accent colours and create a personal stylist's finishing touch. Be careful of you do collect art not to turn your living room into an art gallery. A collection of images by one artist will look great on a staircase, but can make too strong a statement for most living rooms.

Save money on buying new prints by using favourite images and having them professionally re-framed by Frame-Abel. You probably won't have the choice of a mount board if you are buying ready-made framed images or frames. As professional framers we offer a huge range of colours. Also remember what metals are used in a room-if you have light switches, table lamps and fire surrounds in stainless steel then look at silver, pewter picture frame moldings rather than brass or gold.

Since your living room maybe your largest room this where to hang large eye-catching artwork, remembering the more eye-catching it is the greater the viewing distance you should allow. If you home is modern and lacks architectural features you can go for a big picture emphasised perhaps with a picture light. This gives an otherwise feature less wall a lift. A grouping of smaller pictures can have the same effect, by using no more than four-this makes hanging them much easier.

If you live in older property with eye catching ceiling features, pictures in a vertical row will lead the eye upwards, or if there is a small alcove or projecting wall think about hanging a small image in a big frame, remembering that rather than picture lights, a table lamp can light a picture too and add much greater emphasis.

Many homes will have built up an eclectic mixture of pictures over the years and whilst redecorating it is a good time to take stock of what you can use, want to use, or perhaps move from another room. Just look at the artwork, discard the frames-which will probably be out of fashion, in all different styles, gaping corners and hangers past their safe age. Even if they are not going to be used in the same room its a good idea to reframe in similar if not matching frames. This prevents "wall clutter" which is all to present desperately in need of a makeover.

If you struggle when it comes to selecting frames, please don't hesitate to contact us to speak personally with someone who can give qualified, expert suggestions and recommendations.