Framing fun prints

Enhance a child's room with affordable accents you create yourself.

Searching for an inexpensive and creative way to accessorize your little one's room? Brightly matted and framed prints are the ideal solution to get a custom look for less. Oftentimes, the most expensive thing about prints is the framing itself. By using premade frames and inexpensive mat board, however, you can create this tailored look yourself. Just follow these steps.

Step 1: Search community art shows, frame shops, and discount stores for inexpensive prints in a theme you like for the room.

Step 2: Buy premade frames several inches larger than your prints. This will allow ample room for your mat board to be seen.

Step 3: Remove the backing from the frame. Place the frame's cardboard liner on the back side of your mat board, and trace its outline onto the surface.

Step 4: Using a craft knife, cut along the line. (Tip: A ruler is helpful for maintaining a straight line.) Check to see if your mat fits in the frame before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Center the print on the back of the mat, and trace around it. Using a ruler, draw a line at least 1/4 inch inside the traced outline. Cut along this line with a mat cutter, making sure the beveled edge is sloped in the correct direction.

Step 6: Center the print inside the window of the mat board, and affix the print in place with masking tape on the back side. Return the print, mat board, and cardboard backing to the frame. Secure in the frame by pushing in glazier points with a screwdriver.

Step 7: Have fun artfully arranging your pictures on the wall. Note: You can add interest by using decorative ribbon, wire, or cording to hang your artwork.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 2003
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved