Oval Picture Frames

Naturally, when you want to use oval picture frames, your first step is to select the one you want and that will properly enhance the photograph that it will contain. 

Also be aware that you can go with 5x7 picture frames, for example, that have oval cutouts. In any event, once you’ve made your purchase, it is time to place the photo inside.  When you look at the shapes of the two pieces, this may seem easier said than done.  Fortunately, as long as you have the right instructions to guide you, you’ll be able to properly frame any photo.

Oval Picture Frames - Framing Tips

There is a simple step-by-step process, which is as follows:

Step 1 – take the oval picture frames apart so that you have taken off the backing and can see the glass in the front.  Use the picture you’ll be framing to have a look through the glass and see how it will look once it’s finished.  Move it around a bit to see where it will look its best once it’s been cut to size. Once you’ve decided on the perfect placement, you’re ready to crop the image.

Step 2 – extract the glass from the oval picture frame and place them and the photos on a cutting surface.  Readjust the glass over the image until you have found the right placement that you’d decided upon in Step 1.  Be very careful in this step because you don’t want to damage the photograph by sliding the glass over it, and you don’t want to be sloppy in your placement.

Step 3 – with the glass over the photo as you’d like it, ensure that it is straight and centered so it will have a pleasing appearance when it is framed.  It is important not to leave the image even slightly on an angle within oval picture frames because the result will simply appear lopsided.  If you don’t think that you can contain the image without leaving it slightly on a diagonal, another shape might be a better idea; such as 5x7 picture frames.

Step 4 – once you’ve decided on the final placement, use a ball point pen to trace the shape of the glass onto the front of the photograph.  Markers should not be used as their ink can bleed into the image, while pens and pencils that are too sharp can scratch and/or tear the image.  With the glass traced, use sharp, comfortable scissors to slowly and carefully cut along the tracing line.

Step 5 – use a lint-free cloth to clean the glass from oval picture frames.  If you use water to clean the glass, make sure that the glass is very dry before you set it back into the frame.  Now you can set the glass, cut photo, and backing together. Slide the fasteners securely into place to ensure that the backing doesn’t fall off or remain too loose.  If the picture slips behind the glass, use archival mat board or cardboard to add a bit of tension between the photo and the backing.  This will prevent the image from slipping down over time.

Again, if it's not a good fit, don't fret. You can always consider going with 5x7 picture frames or larger that have oval cut-outs.