subject: Oval Picture Frames - How To Prepare Your Oval Photo For Framing [print this page] Now that you have chosen your oval picture frame, it's time to get your photo ready to frame. Although it's not hard to cut your photo and correctly fit it into your frame, these tips will help make the process go faster and help you avoid making a mistake.
1. Before you do any cutting of your picture, first remove the glass and backing from the oval frame. To get an idea of how the picture will look in the oval frame, place the frame over the picture. This will help you decide if the oval frame is right for your picture, before you do any cutting.
2. Use the glass as a guide over the picture and adjust it until you are satisfied you have the best placement for your picture. Move the glass carefully so you don't scratch the picture.
3. Align the picture so the subject of the photo is straight and centered in the frame. This is extremely important for a portrait photo. Be sure the image is not tilted or your picture once framed will look uneven. The horizontal spacing should be even on each side of the subjects in the photo. For vertical spacing the person's head should be about 2/3 of the way up from the bottom of the frame. There shouldn't be a lot of space above the subject otherwise it won't look properly aligned.
4. Once you are satisfied with how your picture will look in the oval frame, use a pen to mark guide lines around the glass onto the photo. This is your cutting line. Avoid thick felt pens because they can bleed and ruin your picture.
5. Now the photo has its cut line, it's time to break out the scissors and start cutting. Be sure to use sharp scissors to cut as dull ones will leave a ragged edge or the picture will bend as you cut.
6. When the picture has been cut, clean the glass and dry thoroughly. Be sure there is no moisture on the glass or your picture may be damaged. Not all frames include frame backing. If your frame doesn't, you will need to make your own frame back. You can use cardboard (for non-archival frames) or archival mat board. By placing the frame molding on top of the backing material, you can use the frame as a template and trace around it.
7. Use brad nails that are about inch long to secure the mat board or cardboard. Space the nails evenly around the backing and then gently push them into the wooden side of the frame.
8. Once the backing is attached check the hardware for hanging your oval picture frame. Most good quality oval frames come with the wall frame hardware included. It is a good idea to always ask the frame retailer to be sure you know whether or not the framing hardware is included.
Follow these simple steps and in no time you will have an oval picture frame you will be proud to hang on your wall.
