Metal frames are popular, and that popularity means there are many types of metal frames to choose from. How do you decide which one is right for you? First of all, you need to ask yourself some questions before you start to shop for a metal frame. Answering these questions before you begin your search will save you time and effort by narrowing down your search options. Once you have these questions answered, you'll feel confident in choosing the perfect metal frame for your special photo. # 1- What is my budget? Prices vary depending up many factors, but to give you an idea of pricing, these are rough price ranges for different types of metal frames using a standard 4x6 size. -Under $10: Basic aluminum frames or simple solid brass frames -Around $10: Basic silver plated frames, steel frames or decorative aluminum frames. -Around $30: Decorative silver plated frames -Around $50:Decorative hand-made solid pewter frames -Above $50: Decorative solid sterling silver frames # 2- How long do I want my frame to last and do I want it to become a treasured keepsake? Metal frames are durable so they will generally all last a long time. Be careful with choosing because some inexpensive aluminum frames may not hold up as well as other metal frames. If you want a frame that will become a family keepsake then you want to consider a higher quality type of silver frame. Examples of keepsake frames are silver plated frames, solid pewter frames and sterling silver picture frames. These three types of silver frames are those that will last and be beautiful from generation to generation. #3- What style frame do I want? That depends on the look you want. For an elegant look, you can't beat silver plated frames or sterling silver frames. If you want a more casual look, go with a decorative aluminum frame or solid pewter frame. If you need a professional or formal look, use aluminum frames, steel frames, silver plated frames or sterling silver frames. You can use almost any type of metal frame for a modern or traditional style. Try aluminum frames, steel frames, pewter frames, silver plate frames or sterling silver frames for that modern or traditional look. #4- What color of frame do I want? Metal frames come in various colors of gold and silver and are available in multiple types of metal material. If you want a silver frame, you could choose pewter, aluminum, sterling silver or silver plate. If the description says "silver picture frame" that doesn't mean it's made of sterling silver or silver plate. It's really referring to the silver color of the frame. Same holds true for pewter frames. Unless it specifically says it is made of solid pewter, it is most likely describing that the frame is a pewter color. #5- What type of finish should it be? The most common metal finishes are shiny, matte/brushed or antiqued. Unless a frame description states specifically matte, brushed or antiqued finish, it is most likely a shiny finish. #6- Will I want the frame engraved? Engraving can give your frame a lovely personal touch especially if it's a gift. To get the most beauty from your engraving, be sure to select a frame that is identified as a frame that can be engraved. Frames meant for engraving are solid metal with the same color metal throughout the depth of the frame. It must also have a flat surface for the engraving. Your best choices are solid pewter frames, silver plated frames or sterling silver frames. #7- What size of frame am I looking for? If you have a specific photo for your frame, then this is an easy question to answer. Standard size photos fit nicely into ready-made standard size frames. Unless you have cut your photo into a unique size or shape, you should be able to get a ready made frame and easily place your photo into it. A unique piece of artwork will probably require a custom metal frame. You have a couple of options. You can buy a custom frame and have it assembled for you, which will add to the cost of your framing, or you can save money by buying the size you need and assembling it yourself. Most metal frames can be tricky to put together, so if you want to save money and are relatively handy with a screwdriver, that may be a good option. Now that you have hopefully answered these eight questions, you should be able to know exactly what you want and find your metal frame quickly and easily.
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