A frame by any other name...

 

Greetings, my fine feathered friend!

 

Choosing the right frame for my artwork is my favorite part of the framing process. :)  When selecting a frame, I first ask myself: Does this frame work with the colors of my drawing and matboard?  My artwork is usually full of earth tones, so I go for the natural wood frames.

 



 

Once I have a style picked out, I then ask myself that all important question: Does this frame enhance my artwork or overpower it?  You want the viewer to spend more time studying your art than the frame it is in.  There is nothing more embarrassing for an artist than to have a viewer come up to his or her work and only say "What a lovely frame."  Now there is nothing wrong with admiring a frame.  I do it all the time.  But when the style of  your frame has more impact than your artwork, it's time to rethink your choice.

Here is how my ocelot turned out when framed--alas the colors didn't come out very well in the photo :(    

Since my work has a consistent theme, I can stock up on frames ahead of time.  I love the "buy one, get one for a penny" sales at places like Aaron Brothers and other local frame shops.  I usually buy several different types that I feel will fit my needs.  Then when I finish a piece, all I have to do is go to a closet and pick out a frame from my stash.  Yep, I'm a frame hoarder! :)  I also purchase sheets of the UV protected glass ahead of time as well.
I like to ask other artists where they get their frames, and here are some of their answers: online, local frame shops, garage sales, handmade by a friend. 
Now I put the same question to you: Where do you get your frames?

Happy Flying!