How to use Frame Designer, Mount Designer and Multiframe Designer

Determine the Size of your Picture / Image / Item

Measure the exact width and height of your picture / image / item , this will be the ONLY measurement required for the whole of this section.

NOTE: If a mount is added on step 3 the system will subtract 8mm from each dimension entered on STEP 1, this will leave a 4mm overlap on top of the Picture/image/item size to hold the picture / image / item in place.

How to order your FRAME using FRAME DESIGNER

There are three measurements required when ordering a mount

• Opening Size - The aperture, opening hole which is to be cut into the mount
• Border Widths - Top, bottom, left & right
• Overall Size - The complete size including the opening and border widths.

Step 1: Determine the Opening Size

• Measure the exact width and height of your picture / image
• Subtract 8mm from each dimension - this leaves a 4mm overlap on top of the Picture/image to hold the picture / image in place.
• NOTE : As you are using Mount Designer the figures entered for the opening size will be the exact opening cut into the board.

Step 2: Determine the Border Widths

• Decide on the Width of border you require
• Tip � See How to decide how wide a mount should be or if you are working to a pre-determined overall size the border widths will be dictated By the Opening Size and the Overall size.
• For example:
• If have a frame already which the mount needs to fit into or you require the mount to be a standard size.
• In this instance as you are working to a fixed opening size and Over-all size the border widths are dictated by these two measurements.

Step 3: Working out the overall size

• Overall Width = Border left + opening width + Border right
• Overall Height = Border top + opening height + Border bottom

  OR

• Overall Width = The width of the frame you have or size you require.
• Overall Height = The height of the frame you have or size you require.

Determine the size of your pictures / images.
Measure the exact width and height of your pictures / images

Tip � using a pencil and piece of paper draw a diagram where you wish each picture / image to be, mark each Picture / image with a number starting from one and write down each width & height next to the number.

These are the ONLY measurements you require for the whole of this section.

NOTE: As a mount is required in this section the system will subtract 8mm from each dimension entered on STEP 1 � enter picture / image size. This will leave a 4mm overlap on top of the picture / image size to hold the picture / image in place.

You are now ready to order your Frame using Multi-Frame

Measure the exact width and height of your picture / image.

Make a note of the size, this will be the ONLY measurement required for the whole of this section.

How to order your frame:

• Click the link 'Picture Frames' at the top of the website, this will bring you to the 'Frame Types' we offer, select a frame type.
• Click the frame you think you may require,this will bring you to step one of frame designer.
• Click Standard sizes
• You are now at step 2 of standard frame designer, select the measurment units for the frame you require. 
• A list of popular standard size's are available are there for you with the price for each size select the size you require and click next.
• If the size you require is not listed click Previous to go back to step 1 and click Custom frames , where any size frame can be ordered.
• You are now at the options page where you can select to add an option or remove an included option, remember when selecting or removing options that you click ?INFO next to each one before making a decision.
• When you are satisfied you have got the correct frame and made the appropriate option choices, click 'Add to basket', you can then amend the quantity required and any discounts applicable will be automatically applied.
• Confirm the items and quantity's in the basket are correct and click 'CONTINUE' where you will be brought to the shipping and payment screens.

Wide mounts can make subjects look even more impressive.

This is because wide mounts can emphasize the subject creating a presentation like those you'd see in a gallery. On small subjects, wide mounts give the impression of value and importance.

On large subjects, a wide mount can maintain the balance of the subject, keeping everything proportional.

If you're double mounting � using one mount underneath another - Main & Base

Avoid "striping," this is caused when double mounts are the same width.

Just make the "BASE", the part nearest to the artwork, smaller. 5mm � 7mm is recommended, although some subjects may demand more, 10mm should be the absolute Maximum.

If you're using Multiframe (Framing more than one image / picture)

Again avoid 'striping' when selecting the central border, this should always be smaller than the main mount widths 60% of the main mount down to a minimum of 20mm is a good guide � if you're selecting a main mount width of 40mm a 24mm central border will be in proportion. 15mm should be the absolute smallest to select

Consider "weighting" the mount by distributing the size.

Sometimes, artwork needs a lift. If you are framing an extra large or very long piece, or if the focal point of the piece happens to be near the bottom, consider "weighting" the mount by making the mount bottom heavy In other words, when entering the mount border widths have it a little wider on the bottom than on the top and sides. This gives a feeling of support for the heavy piece, makes it more balanced and easier on the eyes. Another way that you can apply this technique is to have the mount widths smaller on the left & right. The more you weight the mounts, the more dramatic, the narrower, and more subtle. Use MOUNT DESIGNER to "Weight" your mounts.

How to decide the colour of a mount

Light, Dark or Neutral?

Different colors change the look of your picture / image in different ways.

For example, a dark mount can control your subject while a light mount will amplify it.

Light colored mounts can open up a subject and make it appear larger.

Dark colored mounts can turn you eye inward, making the picture seem smaller.

Black and white images look great with white.

Neutral colors, like Ivory and White are always great choices. As they fit right into any room.

Should the mount colour complement where it is to be displayed or the subject ?

Both are important but you should really match the mount to the subject first � as the subject will never change and the d�cor inevitably will ! When choosing a mount colour, go no lighter than the lightest color within the subject, no darker than the darkest and no brighter than the brightest, this will guarantee success.

Single mounts

If you choose to use one Mount, try using a neutral color. This can be Ivory or White . Neutral tones will enhance any subject; but play with the system before simply going with Ivory or White.

Double Mounts

If you have decided to use a double mount, it's best to to use a neutral color for the MAIN mount, for the "BASE ," (the mount nearest your artwork) try matching this mount to a dominant color in the Subject This can add new dimension to subject. Keeping all your mounts the same color, will soften the layers incredibly well. Try to avoid color transitions that are extreme - choosing a BASE mount of red with a MAIN mount of Dark blue, Might be too much for the eyes !

Acid-Free

Mount board with a striking pure solid white core and backing.

The core and backing are made from chemically purified wood pulp from which all potentially harmful substances have been extracted, the core is pure, non acidic white, which gives subjects maximum protection against acidic contaminationSuggested to use for items of high value or conservation type.

All White-core boards are 1500 micron (1.5mm)

Black-core

Mount board with a striking non acidic solid black core and backing.

The core and backing are made from chemically purified wood pulp from which all potentially harmful substances have been extracted; the core is pure, non acidic black, which gives subjects maximum protection against acidic contamination .Suggested to use for items of high value or conservation type.

All Black-core boards are 1500 micron. (1.5mm)

Conservation

Chemically purified wood pulp from which ALL potentially harmful substances have been extracted.

The board is buffered with calcium carbonate, which protects against acidic elements in the environment -alkaline ph & has Solid colour. The board uses Fade & bleed resistance pigmented paper that has excellent fade resistance properties. Which when bevelled keeps the colour consistent throughout.

This Board is 100% conservation quality (recommended by the F.A.T.G)

Conservation Boards are 1350 Micron (1.35mm). Fine art trade guild Mount level 2 - Conservation.

Extra Thick

The core and backing are made from chemically purified wood pulp from which all potentially harmful substances have been extracted, the core is pure, non acidic white, which gives subjects maximum protection against acidic contamination. Extra Thick boards are 3200 micron ( 3.2mm )

Standard

Made up of three Layers, surface paper, wood pulp core and non acidic backing all cream-core boards are made to a neutral PH specification. Cream-core is ideal for prints, posters, photographs, Textiles and virtually any subject that does not need to be mounted to a conservation level.

Standard boards are 1250 micron (1.25mm).

Museum

The total board - surface paper, core and backing is made from a non acidic 100% Cotton fibre - Lignin free. Use for original artwork, Fine prints and precious documents

Museum boards are 1500 micron (1.5mm) . Fine art trade guild Mount level 1 - Museum.

There are three measurements required when ordering a standard sized mount

• 1. Opening size, - The Aperture, opening, hole which is to be cut into the mount
• 2. The Border width you require
• 3. Overall Size - The complete size including the opening.

Step 1: Determine the Opening Size

• Measure the exact width and height of your picture / image
• Then Subtract 8mm from each dimension.
• This leaves a 4mm overlap on top of the Picture/image to hold the picture / image in place.

NOTE : As you are using Mount Designer.

The figures entered for the opening size Will be the EXACT opening cut into the board.

Step 2: Determine the Overall size you require

An example in 'Imperial' Inches

If you require an exact opening size of 7" x 9" and you require a 1" Border, the Overall size of mount you require would be 8" x 10"

An example in 'Metric' Millimeters

If you require an exact opening size of 300mm x 400mm and you require a 50mm Border, the overall size of mount you require would be 400mm x 500mm.

NOTE: As you are working to a pre-determined overall size the border widths are dictated By the Opening Size and the Overall size.

How to order your mount.

� Click the Link 'Picture Mounts' At the top of the website, this will bring you to the 'Mount types' we offer

� Click the type of mount you require, Acid-free, Black-core, Conservation, Extra thick, Standard or museum; this will take you to that section with information regarding the mount type.

� Scroll down the page using the scroll box to the right of the webpage to browse every mount colour available in that section, if any item is out of stock it will be informed here. Click Either the Mount you would like to view in more detail or 'Click for more info'

� You are now on step one of mount designer, as you require a standard size, click standard mounts , select the unit of measurment and a List of the most Popular standard size's are there for you with the Price for each size next to each Size.

� If the size you require is not listed, click Previous and select custom where any size can be ordered.

� Click the the size you require, and follow the steps !

When you are satisfied you have got the correct mount, entered the correct opening size and made the appropriate option choices Click 'Add to basket', you can then amend the quantity if required and any discounts applicable will be automatically calculated and applied.

Every-frame we supply, Comes to you complete with everything you need to successfully frame you own picture ( unless items are removed using options )

• The Frame Itself
• The Picture Glazing
• The Picture Backing
• An Appropriate Hanging / Standing System.

Extreme care should be taken when bending flexi-tabs and handling Acrylic Glazing the edges Can be very sharp, the use gloves is recommended.

• Lay the frame face down onto a flat surface, a towel or carpet is ideal.
• Carefully Bend the Flexi-tabs back to enable the Backing to be removed.
• Remove the Picture Backing & Picture Glazing.
• Remove The Protective Cover from BOTH sides of the Picture Glazing.

Tip: If you dig your nail into the edge of the Protective cover this will make it easier to remove, Remember the cover is ALWAYS on both sides.

Place the Picture glazing back into the frame, Place you picture into the frame and then Place the Picture Backing into the frame. Carefully Bend the Flexi-tabs back to secure the picture backing into the frame

If you have a small frame the chances are there will be either a Black Hangit clip or there may be a Pozzi-hanger attatched to the backing board, in either of these instances the hanging kit is fitted for you, the vast majority of frames we make and send out come supplied with Hanging kits supplied in a clear plastic bag, consisting of.

The correct length of cord required.

The correct amount of D-rings and screws required for the total order.

Heres what to do.

• 1. Lay the frame face down onto a flat surface, a towel or carpet is ideal.
• 2. Making sure the frame is facing the correct way up for hanging.
• 3. Make a mark about 1/3 of the way down from the top of the frame on each side section, as close to the center of the frame as possible but please do note it is very important to measure the depth of the frame at this point to make sure the screw can not go all the way through the frame and damage the frame on the front.
• 4. Using a nail, Bradawl or drill make a pilot hole on each of the marks.
• 5. On both sides, Place the hole of the D-ring over the pilot hole with the ring facing inwards.
• 6. On both sides, Place a screw through the hole and into the pilot hole and screw in tight
• 7. Loop the cord through each Ring on the D-ring and tie up on both sides.

Every-frame we supply, Comes to you complete with everything you need to successfully frame you own picture. ( unless items are removed using options )

• The Frame Itself
• The Picture Glazing
• The Picture Backing
• An Appropriate Hanging / Standing System.

The edges of Aluminium frame pieces, Acrylic glazing and the Metal springs can be very sharp. It is recommended that you use gloves while handling them.

• Lay the frame face down onto a flat surface, a towel or carpet is ideal
• Carefully Remove All Springs
• Loosen one screw from the top of the Left section
• Loosen one screw from the top of the Right section
• Pull out the complete top section.
• Remove Backing & Cover from both sides of the glazing

Tip: If you dig your nail into the edge of the Protective cover this will make it easier to remove, Remember the cover is always on both sides.

• Place artwork between glazing & Backing
• Slide Art, glazing & Backing into the frame
• Place top section of frame back into the frame
• Screw both screws back in
• Slide the springs back into the back of the frame
• Fit Foam Bumpers in each corner at the bottom of frame.

The Hanging Brackets supplied slip Screw first into the Aluminium Profile at the back of the frame, when this is in positon Screw tight using a flat head screw driver repeat this process on the oposite side in the same postion.

Loop the cord through each Ring on the Bracket and tie up on both sides.

Hanging picture on your wall can create a dramatic focal point and if the picture is hung well

The effect will be a good one too, remember it is you who will be looking at it every day !

As a standard rule of thumb Art Gallery's use the 60 Inch's or 1520mm rule.

This is the distance From the floor underneath where the picture is to be hung to the centre of the picture.

This brings the focal point in the picture to the same level as most peoples eyes, Positioning this way works well for any installation, However this is not always possible, you may have a large fireplace or non movable objects which make this impossible.

We know this may sound obvious but we suggest taping together old newspaper's to make a template

The exact size of the picture and frame, and then using Blue-tack place them in the spot you are considering, stand well back to see if the effect and position are what you had in mind. If it is then great, but if it isn't then no drama, you can remove the paper and blue tack and have a re-think ! � The key here is to make sure the position is spot on before banging nails into the wall.

When you are satisfied you have found the correct position for your picture make a small pencil mark at the top of the paper exactly in the middle, this will be a guide for putting the hanging hooks on the wall

If you have used d-rings, cord and screws, with your frame still on the carpet with it's cord fitted.

Using a pencil, mark a point exactly in the middle of the frame on the top section then using your finger underneath the cord pull, the cord as near as you can to the centre point marked out on the top section of the frame, then make a mark of this position with the pencil.

With a ruler or tape measure, measure the distance between the Pencil mark on the top of the frame and the pencil mark form the top of the cord, this is the distance you will need to position the hanging hook underneath the mark made on the wall, depending on the weight of the frame we suggest subtracting 20mm form this size to allow for the weight of the frame.

If you have A pozzi-hanger or black hang-it clip the same methods are applied as above, simply measure the distance from the top of the Clip to the top of the frame and this gives you the correct distance to come down from the mark you have made on the wall.

Now using you chosen method of hanging hooks you have the correct position to install the hooks.

You may already have the fixings you require but if not we offer Four types of Simple hanging hooks , All available to purchase on-line.

• Single Hooks � Designer for smaller pictures up to around 10" x 8" (200mm x 250mm)
• Double Hooks � Designed for medium picture frames up to around 16" x 20" (400mm x 500mm)
• Hardwall Hooks � Designed for Fixing into a Hard wall.
• Picture Rail Hooks � Designed to fit onto a picture rail and chain

We suggest the use of a Wall plug & screw for Frames over the sizes above

Check the stability of the wall you intend to hang your picture on, if in doubt seek professional assistance, If you are in any doubt whatsoever about what's behind or in the wall, the use of a Wire / Pipe detector is essential. Fixing pins are extremely hard & could snap off if the head is not hit straight.

Care should be taken to prevent any injury particularly to the eyes which could arise if the nail should fracture. It is advisable to use gentle hammer blows only. The wearing of protective goggles and Gloves is recommended.

The suggested Picture size for hooks are suggested in good faith, however we are not responsible for injury or damage caused by using the wrong Hanging kit, the hanging kit not being fixed correctly and or the hanging hooks not being installed Properly.

Picture Frames

A gentle clean is all that is necessary for cleaning picture frames, never use water or Cleaning fluids especially abrahasive cleaners or fluids. Brush with a soft brush and Clean using a Clean Damp Cloth.

Plexiglass Picture Glazing

Never ever, use cleaners containing ammonia or any abrasive Cleaning solution.

The Acrylic cleaning solution we offerClick hereis specifically formulated to clean Acrylic , this is the ideal solution for the job as well as any other Plastics Around the house. Simply Spray on a little Solution Direct from the Botttle, Leave for a few seconds and Dry off with a soft, lint-free cloth - the Tiger cloth is ideal.Click here

Do not use any old cloth, Paper towels or your hand to clean your acrylic, this can rub the dirt and dust into the acrylic as much as it rubs it off and can scratch the surface of the glazing.

The use of a soft Lint free cloth is essential The Tiger ClothClick hereis designed to remove static from Acrylic. There are thousands of tiny pockets knit into the Cloth that dissipates static. Wipe the cloth over the surface of the glazing to remove static and dust particals.

This section and complete website has been written using customer Feedback and our own experience doing what we do - Making picture frames and pictures mounts , It is all we do - We specialise in manufacturing two products and two products only, Picture frames and Picture mounts. This section ' How to's ' is simply a quick guide designed to help you on your way, there are endless ways to Frame and or Mount your subjects and the best way is to experiment and use the system to try different Frames, Frames against different mount colours, Mount border widths and Type etc..

Hopefully this section will be of help to you and informative. We welcome every comment and especially criticism & if you have any new ideas or suggestions please mail them to us and we will put them on this site for everyone to share or write good ideas /suggestions into our website, after all this is Frame-Express Picture Framers Ltd's sixth website over twenty years and every incarnation of every site has been made and improved upon using technology avaiilable and this very feedback. Thank you once again !.