16 Ways to Display Frames

You can display frames in many ways.  Here are some ideas to make your space more interesting.

1. Group many photos or prints together, and hang them in a symmetrical cluster.  Use the same frames and mattes to unify the look. 
2. A large gallery display of family photos is a wonderful way to infuse any room with warmth.  Use similar frames of different sizes and hang them in a mosaic pattern.
3. Prop one large painting on a standing easel, and place the easel in a corner or hallway.
4. Hang black and white prints or photos in black frames against a boldly colored wall for drama.
5. For a lovely, personal touch, place a single framed photograph on a table next to a lamp.
6. Hang a large framed painting above your headboard for a restful focal point.
7. Complement box molding on the wall by hanging framed art inside.
8. Position a group of frames on a floating wall shelf.
9. Think "out of the frame."  Place pictures in shadow boxes instead of traditional frames for more interest.  Add memorabilia for a personal touch.
10. Place small photographs on bookshelves to break up the uniformity of the books. 
11. Hang a framed painting from the front edge of a shelf so it hangs down over the shelf below.
12. Use plate stands to display small frames on a side table or bookshelf.
13. Rest a large framed picture on a window pane, or group several small ones on the sill.
14. Hang family photographs on the inside of cabinet doors, so you can enjoy them as you go about your daily home life.
15. Rest a painting on the back of a shelf, and place other accessories in front.
16. Hang ribbon from above your frame, allowing it to fall behind the frame.  This gives the appearance that the picture is hung from the ribbon.

When displayed correctly, frames can transform the entire look of a room!

 Back to top 

• Re-gluing and upholstering the seat of a family rocking chair.
• Replacing the foam and batting inside back sofa cushions so they are smooth and no longer lumpy.
• Replacing the upholstery on kitchen chairs -  seats and backs - with long wearing and easy to clean chenille. 

Back to top

According to the Golden Mean or the Golden Ratio, proportion is important in design.  Using the rule of 1/3 - 2/3 proportion...

• Art work or a mirror should be hung at eye level - which in a 96" height room (8' ceiling) would be 60". 
• Art work placed over an 84" sofa should be 2 pieces of art @ 28" each or 1 item @ 56" wide.  
• This translates into window treatments as well.  The tieback on a stationary panel should be 1/3 down from the top or 1/3 up from the bottom -- never in the middle.