Framing a painting is generally a simple project that requires a few easily purchased materials.  The tools required can usually be found in your home.  Paintings can always be professionally framed, but perhaps you will want to consider the satisfaction you will receive and the savings you will enjoy from doing it yourself.

What you will need:

It is important to remember that watercolor paintings are affected by moisture so keep your painting wrapped until you are ready to frame it.  Probably the one room in your house that is not appropriate for displaying a watercolor painting is a full bathroom.  A powder room is fine.

Measure the dimensions of the image at the greatest points of width and length.  Consider the outside dimensions of your painting before you go shopping.  Check you wall space, too.

Mats and frames come in standard sizes.  The size of the opening can vary.  Take your wrapped painting with you to decide color and size of the mat.  Also take a tape measure, pen and paper.

The painting, the mat, and the frame should all come together so that the painting remains the most important componenet.  Avoid a flashy frame.  It is best to underplay the mat and frame.  You will also need to purchase non-acidic framing tape. Every material which touches your painting long term should be marked non-acidic or acid-neutral to prevent the painting from aging and oxydation.

National craft chains usually have a wide selection of frames and mats.  You can expect good customer assistance and they generally have framing services if you require it.

The Framing Procedure

Begin by securing the painting to the inside of the top of your mat using two or three tabs of the framing tape.  These are called hinges.  Check carefully to center the painting in the opening so that it looks appealing to you. Add a non-acidic backing to the mat also with tape hinges.

Thoroughly clean the glass in the frame, both inside and outside with glass cleaner. I like to use coffee filters for this because they do not leave residual lint on the surface of the glass.  I use the backside of an old spoon to lift the metal prongs on pre-made frames and to secure them after the painting is in place.  More expensive frames will have screws at the corners which will need to be loosened to slide the painting, mat, and backing into place. Once satisfied with the arrangement tighten the screws once again.  Be careful to check the painting one last time before securing the frame.  (My little cat naps on my framing table.  I inevitably find cat hairs under the glass just after I've tightened the last screw.)

If using wire and screw eyes on the back of a wooden frame, attach the screw eyes 1/4 of the distance from the top of the frame.  Always pull the wire as tightly as you can.  A hanging wire should never be visible from the front.

A painting can be sealed with non-acidic paper cut to fit the back of a frame.  This will keep out dust.  Paintings should be displayed at room temperature to avoid condensation beneath the glass. Clean framed paintings regularly and check for any signs of  deterioration.

Collecting art is a wonderful hobby that can be enjoyed by anyone!