The Gallery Frame Difference and Why They're Better

If you are looking for the best way to create a stunning looking wall display with interest and eye appeal, gallery frames are the perfect solution. Don't know about gallery frames? You are not alone. Gallery frames are one of the least well known types of frames yet they’re one of the best ways to make your pictures stand out. This article will explain what gallery frames are and the best type of gallery frames to make your pictures look their best.

Gallery frames have simple moldings and are designed to place emphasis on the picture and not on the frame itself. Gallery frames often have wide picture frame mats that lead the eye away from the frame and straight to the picture.

When selecting a gallery frame, always know the exact picture or piece of artwork that you're wanting to frame. The gallery frame should complement, not compete with, the look of the picture. Instead of just choosing a frame you like, you need to be aware of whether or not the style, color and type of gallery frame you select will accent your picture. This can be the difference between a good looking display and one that really stands out and gets your attention.

Types of Gallery Picture Frames

There are primarily two types of gallery picture frames: metal and wood. Either can be used with or without a picture frame mat.

The metal frames are often made of aluminum with a brushed or smooth metal finish and come in a variety of colors. Wood is usually more popular and comes in a wide variety of stained colors like white, black, brown, walnut, rosewood, teak or natural wood.

Both types of gallery frames come in a wide selection of sizes. Gallery picture frames are often used to make a wall display using one style and color of frame in a variety of different sizes. This creates a gallery display that looks well planned and prevents your eye from being distracted from your pictures with different types of frames.

If you are looking for a more formal or professional look to your gallery photo wall, you will want to use picture mats with your gallery frames. Mats can add a extra dimension to your frame that helps draws your eye straight to the photo. Professional photographers and artists almost always use mats in their framed pieces as they know the visual impact a mat can make on a piece of artwork.

When you go to choose a gallery frame, you can buy a quality pre-assembled gallery frame called a ready made frame or you can have a frame custom made. There are pros and cons with both types of frames but generally ready made frames are more common because they are more affordable than a handmade custom frame.

If you buy a ready made gallery frame, they often don’t include a mat or, if they do, it’s a simple plain white mat. Many frame manufacturers do this because they figure most customers want to choose a mat that will specifically go with their photo. Buying a separate mat may take a little more effort, but it gives you the option to choose a mat that will complement and enhance your picture. When choosing a mat, you want to select a mat that highlights the color you want to emphasize in your picture or artwork.

If you want to completely customize your gallery frame then your best option is a custom frame. With a custom frame you can select frame color, molding style, material, size and mat color so you can have a unique, one of a kind look that you’ll be proud to display. Customizing your gallery frames can be expensive, but you will end up with a custom looking piece of artwork that really stands out.

Once you see what a difference a gallery frame can make to your piece of art, you’ll have fun turning your photographs and artwork into a beautiful display in your home.