How to Create a Photo Collage

 How-to articles
Jun 152011
 

When it comes to combining several photographs in one frame, the logical answer is a multiple-opening mat. It lets you be creative with color schemes, photo orientation, and even window shapes, (circles, ovals, stars, etc.) while getting the job done. And this tried and true design is a good place to start. But with a few alternatives and twists, we can help you create a unique, custom design that accentuates your photos.  One option is to add dimension to the photo collage by floating some photos over the traditional multi-opening mat. If you have some photos that are more important than others, we can top mount those photos to make them more prominent and give them the attention they deserve. Or for a less formal look, we can overlap some of your photos to create a more casual collage.

Another option is to include small objects or tokens with your photos to add dimension while keeping the design balanced. Consider combining some seashells you found with photos taken at the beach on your last vacation. Or pair pressed flowers from a corsage with prom pictures to preserve those special memories.  Let your photos collage tell your story for you.  By looking beyond the traditional layout of multiple-opening frames, we can help you create a special custom frame design that will reflect the importance of your photos and memories. Come in today and let our expert designers help you create your own unique work of art.

How to Care for Plexiglas (acrylic)

 How-to articles
May 252011
 

The biggest problem with Plexiglas and acrylics in general is the use of incorrect cloths and cleaners.  Do not use cleaners containing ammonia.  Cleaners such as Windex or 409 will harm your new piece of acrylic. First, blow the dust or dirt off.  Then, use a soft cloth that won’t scratch or leave lint – never use paper towels because they will scratch.  Slightly dampen the cloth before wiping the acrylic gently to clean.  If the dirt isn’t coming off, you can mix a little dish detergent in some warm water, lightly ‘scrub’ the area with a soft cloth and then dry with a different soft cloth.  If you wish to use a cleaning product, use only products specifically recommended for cleaning acrylic, like Brillianize which is a product you can purchase from us.

Secondly, even though it’s not glass, you still need to treat it carefully. Dropping your acrylic can cause cracking: from large cracks, to small chips that can turn into big cracks. Acrylic is incredibly resilient,but it still needs a little TLC.

And finally, acrylic can hold static electricity and that attracts dust.  The best thing to fight the static electricity is a damp cloth, as mentioned above.

Acrylic is definitely the preferred ‘glass’ for most artwork.  It offers a key advantage of being light weight but the main attraction is the fact that it won’t damage your artwork should it fall or be damaged in moving or shipping.  It won’t shatter like glass, so your art has a much better chance of surviving intact.  An important fact here in earthquake country.

How to Pick the Right Mat Color

 How-to articles
Feb 232011
 

One of the most important aspects of custom framing is selecting the matting.  Our design professionals are expert in helping you make that selection.  Picking the right color is so important to the finished look.  You should also consider texture and width dimensions but color is the place to start.

We’re  here to help and we always make sure to take the time needed to work with you and get the best results.

The right colored mat can make your picture pop, bringing out the flattering tones and hues. The wrong colored mat can make your photo look washed out, discolored or bland. With a little forethought, you can select a mat that will complement your picture for a stunning display.

Decide the look you want to give your picture with its mat. If you want your art to have a more formal appearance, consider using black, white, or jewel tones such as burgundy or royal blue. To give it a more fun, whimsical appearance, consider using bright colors such as hot pink, lemon yellow or lime green. For an earthy, natural look, stick with neutral hues such as browns, leafy greens or creamy whites. For a soft, romantic look, pastels such as sky blue, lavender and mint green work well.  Consider the room where you will be displaying the matted art as well.

Choose a selection of mat colors from the color group that achieves the look you want.  Select colors that complement or contrast well with the predominant color in the art and keep the frame in mind as well.  Neutral colored frames, or frames made of woods and metals generally will work well with any color mat.

Lay the mats on your picture, one color at a time. Examine the picture for the tones and hues that the mat brings out. Notice how placing the photo on different colors in turn makes it look completely different. For example, a blue mat might bring out the blue eyes of a person in a close-up portrait, while a red mat might make some blotchy discolorations of that person’s skin look more prominent. Select a mat that makes the colors in the picture look natural and flattering.  Choose the color mat that looks best with your picture and coordinates with your frame.

How to Arrange Pictures

 How-to articles
Feb 172011
 

Arranging pictures on your wall is an art – and it’s important to do it well.  For 17 years, the staff at Artistic HangUps has helped people hang their framed artwork because we believe that the display is so important.  If you’d like to learn more about it, check out this link on the subject:  The Art of Arranging Pictures.   And don’t forget, we can do it for you.  Just call to set up the appointment and we’ll make sure you’re happy with the results.

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