DIY Picture Framing: A Step‑by‑Step Guide to Choosing Frames, Mats, and Hanging Techniques for Any Space

Ever walked into a room and felt something was missing, even though the walls were already full of art? I’ve been there—standing in a client’s living room, staring at a beautiful print that just didn’t “pop” because the frame was wrong. The right frame, mat, and hanging method can turn a simple picture into a focal point. That’s why I’m sharing the exact process I use in my shop, so you can get the same polished look without hiring a pro.

Why the Right Frame Matters

A frame isn’t just a border; it’s a bridge between the artwork and the room. The right frame can:

• Highlight colors in the image
• Protect the piece from dust and light
• Tie the artwork to the décor style

Skip this step and you risk a cheap‑looking display that ages fast. Let’s avoid that.

Step 1: Pick the Perfect Frame

1.1 Know Your Style

First, ask yourself what vibe you want. Modern? Go for a thin, metal frame in matte black or brushed nickel. Traditional? A wooden frame with a subtle grain works well. I always keep a small “style board” on my desk—magazine clippings, fabric swatches, paint chips—so I can match the frame to the room’s palette.

1.2 Size Matters

Measure the artwork’s outer edges, not the canvas or paper. Add the mat thickness you plan to use (more on that later) to get the total opening size. For a 8×10 print with a 2‑inch mat on each side, the frame opening should be 12×14 inches.

1.3 Material Choices

• Wood – Warm, classic, easy to paint.
• Metal – Sleek, lightweight, great for large pieces.
• Acrylic – Modern, can be clear or tinted, but scratches easier.

I love wood for family photos because it adds a soft feel, while I reach for metal when framing bold graphic prints.

Step 2: Choose the Right Mat

2.1 What Is a Mat?

A mat (or mount) is the thick paper board that sits between the artwork and the frame. It creates a visual “breathing room” and prevents the glass from touching the piece.

2.2 Color Selection

Pick a mat color that complements, not competes with, the artwork. A safe rule: choose a hue that appears in the picture but is lighter or more muted. If your photo has a deep navy sky, a light gray or off‑white mat will let the navy shine.

2.3 Width and Proportion

Standard mat widths range from 1 to 4 inches. Larger walls can handle wider mats; small spaces look better with a narrow border. I often use the “golden ratio” trick: the mat width should be about one‑third of the frame’s total width. For a 24‑inch frame, a 2‑inch mat on each side feels balanced.

2.4 Cutting the Mat

If you’re cutting the mat yourself, a sharp utility knife and a metal ruler are your best friends. Here’s my quick method:

1. Lay the mat on a clean surface, smooth side up.
2. Measure the opening (the size of the artwork plus any extra bleed).
3. Mark the corners with a pencil.
4. Score the mat along the ruler, then gently lift the cut piece.

Take your time—rushing leads to crooked openings.

Step 3: Protect the Artwork

3.1 Glass vs. Acrylic

• Glass – Scratch‑resistant, heavy, can break.
• Acrylic – Light‑weight, shatter‑proof, but scratches easier.

For high‑value pieces, I use museum‑grade UV‑blocking glass. For kids’ art or casual prints, acrylic saves you from a heavy wall.

3.2 Backing Board

A sturdy backing board (foam core or acid‑free cardboard) keeps the piece flat and safe. I always add a small piece of archival tape to hold the artwork in place without damaging it.

Step 4: Assemble the Frame

1. Place the backing board inside the frame.
2. Lay the glass or acrylic on top, making sure it sits flush.
3. Position the mat, then the artwork.
4. Add a few small points of archival tape at the corners of the artwork.
5. Secure the frame’s rear clips or turn‑buttons.

Give the frame a gentle shake; it should feel snug but not tight. A loose frame will sag over time.

Step 5: Hanging Techniques

5.1 Find the Right Spot

Use a tape measure and a level. The center of the artwork should sit at eye level—about 57 to 60 inches from the floor for most people. I always step back and look at the wall from different angles before drilling.

5.2 Choose the Right Hardware

• Picture Hooks – Good for frames under 5 pounds.
• D‑Ring Hangers – Stronger, work well for larger frames.
• French Cleat – Ideal for very heavy pieces; distributes weight across a larger area.

I keep a small kit of hooks and screws in my workshop drawer; it saves a trip to the hardware store.

5.3 Install the Hangers

1. Mark the wall where the hanger will go.
2. Drill a pilot hole (use a smaller bit than the screw).
3. Insert a wall anchor if you’re not hitting a stud.
4. Screw in the hook or cleat, leaving a tiny gap for the frame to hang.

5.4 Hang and Level

Place the frame on the hanger, then use a level to make sure it’s straight. If it’s a little off, a tiny shim of cardboard under one side does the trick.

Step 6: Final Touches

Step back and look. Does the frame complement the room’s colors? Does the mat give the artwork breathing room? If something feels off, adjust the mat width or try a different frame finish. I’ve learned that a small change—like swapping a black frame for a warm walnut—can completely shift the mood.

My Personal Tip

When I first started framing, I used the same mat for every picture. It was quick, but the results felt bland. One day I grabbed a scrap of deep teal fabric from a vintage dress and used it as a mat for a seaside photo. The contrast made the blues in the picture pop like never before. Since then, I treat each mat like a mini‑canvas that can add color, texture, or even a subtle pattern to the overall look.

Quick Checklist

• Measure artwork and decide frame opening
• Choose frame style and material
• Pick mat color and width
• Cut mat cleanly with a ruler and utility knife
• Use UV‑blocking glass for valuable pieces
• Secure backing board and archival tape
• Select appropriate wall hardware
• Hang at eye level and level the frame

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a gallery‑ready display that feels custom‑made, even if you did it yourself in the garage. Framed Artistry is all about making the process simple, affordable, and fun—so go ahead, pick that print you love, and give it the home it deserves.