Alternative Framing

These alternative framing methods work because the "frames" are all the same, making the groupings cohesive.

Picture Hanging Tools

This tool (above) is called a 'set and match' by Kapro and I could not hang pictures with double hangers, without it. It's a ruler with sliding nail markers, which have levels on them. It comes in 24" - 40" lengths and it's a life-saver. I bought mine at Home Depot.

The clear dots are rubber picture bumpers. I use these religiously for two reasons. First, they help keep pictures straight that are hung with a single nail, and secondly, they keep from scuffing your walls.

Some basic rules of picture hanging:

1. Don't scatter your pictures. Hang them in groups for more impact.
2. Use templates from wrapping paper of your pictures to get the positioning right before you start putting holes in the walls. It's a bit laborious, but well worth the effort.
3. Call your decorator and ask her for an hour of time if you are not sure what frames to buy or what heights and walls to hang them.

Framing - it's really important.

I simply cannot emphasize the importance of framing enough. Whether your project is small or large, set aside those budget dollars for some substantial framing. Now, if the items that you are framing are not that important to you, meaning, you don't see yourself keeping them forever then go ahead and frame them yourself. If you are framing family pictures or original artwork, I would highly recommend that you get them professionally framed to preserve them and prevent yellowing. As these pictures show, grouping similar style frames together creates impact and drama.

Dear Readers,

As you may or may not know, I am obsessed with my job; decorating. This blog is dedicated to all of the little side projects and ideas that I am working on. In this blog you will see the little projects that haven't garnered professional photography, but are still worth mentioning for the budget concious consumer. In addition, this little blog will hold some of my design ideas that you can also do at home yourself in a pinch, inspirational photographs from couture to conservative, announcements and a little bit of artwork. I encourage your feedback as you take a peek and if you use any of the ideas in this space, please let me know. Enjoy and welcome to Aesthetic Addiction.

Kelly Boeve
Orange Moon Interiors, Inc.