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How Will You Use the Oval Frame?
Your first consideration should be the photograph you plan to display in the oval picture frame. Does the picture have one person, two or is it a group photo?
In general, a portrait of one or two people is the best choice for an oval picture frame. If you have more than one person in the picture, the two people should be close together to get the best look.
If you aren't sure if an oval frame will look good with your photo, find an inexpensive oval mat and place it over your photo to see what it looks like. This way you will avoid buying an oval frame if it doesn't look good with your picture.
You should also think about how you plan to display your frame. Do you want to display it on a table or hang it on the wall? This is especially important because you need to make sure you get the right type of hardware for whichever way you want to display it.
What Type of Frame Do You Want?
Oval picture frames come in several different materials. You can find them in solid wood, composite wood or metal. Your photo may have a different feel in each type of wood, so carefully consider which material will bring out the look you want.
Solid Wood Frames
Solid wood frames are classic and easy to find. They are popular because of their simplicity and minimal decoration. Solid wood frames will go with just about any home decor because the wood can be stained in many different wood tones. You can select light or dark oak, mahogany, rosewood or the simplicity of a white wash stain.
Composite Wood Frames
Composite wood frames are made of pressed wood and are the most common type of oval frame as they allow for decorative ornamentation on the frame. Composite wood decorative frames are more durable and allow for a huge selection of decorative borders and features that would never be possible with solid wood frames.
Metal Frames
Metal oval frames are designed for tabletop displays and generally come in smaller sizes. They are available in plain metal finishes or with beaded or crystal decorations that give them a bright, colorful look. You can find metal oval frames that hang on the wall, but they are not as common as wood frames.
What Type of Style Do You Want for Your Oval Picture Frame?
Whatever your tastes may be, there are many different styles of oval frames to choose from. If you're not sure which one would look the best then let your picture help decide. If you need additional help, here are some tips that may help.
- If you have any old photos of men or boys you want to display, your best bet is to frame them in a classic oval frame with minimal ornamentation. You want a simple frame so it has a more masculine look which can be easily found in most solid wood oval frames.
- If you're looking to frame any photos of girls or women, there are lots of different styles of oval frames to choose from. A traditional decorative oval frame is an excellent choice for a picture of either a girl or woman. With so many choices of decorative frames, choose a frame that matches the formality of your picture. If the women are dressed up then you could go with a more decorative frame but if their attire is more casual then choose an oval frame with less decorative features. The goal of the frame is to add a decorative feminine touch, not draw attention away from your special photo.
- Antique and vintage style oval frames are perfect for black and white and sepia toned pictures. This style of frame is made to look like an antique and will have brown or black colored decorations to make the frame look old and blend in with almost any old fashioned photos or frames.
- Modern artwork is best suited for a modern looking oval picture frame. Modern looking oval frames have either flat moldings or round tube-like shaped moldings. They are normally available in black, silver or white.
Selecting a Color for Your Oval Frame
Once you have chosen the style of your oval picture frame, it is time to choose a color. Anytime you're choosing the color of your frame, always look at your picture first to see what color of frame would best display it. You should also consider where the frame will be displayed so it blends with the surrounding decor. Here are some recommendations to consider when choosing a color:
- Black and white photographs look best in silver oval frames.
- Sepia colored pictures will look great in a gold oval frame or an antique or vintage styled wood frame.
- When in doubt you can't go wrong with walnut, cherry or rosewood oval frames.
Oval picture frames are a lovely way to showcase your favorite photo and give it some special attention on your wall or table. The special eye-appeal of oval frames helps the photo stand out and will add a touch of style and sophistication to your decor.
