Going to the professionals for framing your oil painting can burn a hole in your pocket. They do know what kind of frame would suit a particular piece of work but they charge an arm and a leg for their services.

Instead of adding to your expenses, it is better to try and frame the oil painting yourself. And framing the oil painting all by yourself is not rocket science. You can do it if you know how.

But choosing the right frame can get a bit difficult. Considering that a frame can augment or ruin the look of the oil painting to a great extent, here are some tips to help you choose the appropriate frame for your oil painting:

->Look for a frame which is not just beautiful to look at but also fits the dimensions of the painting perfectly.

->You can choose simple brown and black frames as they can go well with any kind of painting.

->If you have purchased a traditional oil painting from an online gallery, then go for metallic frames. For a portrait too, a metallic frame with ornate work is perfect.

->Make sure that the frame not only fits well but also compliments the essence of the painting. The frame should not be such that it overshadows the oil painting or distracts the attention of the viewer from the painting. At the same time, it should not bring down the beauty of the oil painting. In short, the frame must gel with the theme, color and size of the oil painting.

->Check out a number of stores with a variety of frames. Don't just buy the frame from the first shop you step into. Take your time in researching the market, and visit a number of stores until you get the frame you are looking for.

->Before buying the frame, check carefully whether the oil painting and the frame are blending well with each other or not and only then make the purchase.

Framing the painting under the glass is not a good idea

Never frame the painting under the glass especially if you have bought an oil painting which has been made on a canvas, board or a panel. The glass can lead to damage. The varnishing done on the painting is more than enough to prevent it from any pollution or damage. Only in museums, ancient relics and original paintings are kept under glass for extra protection.

After framing the oil painting, hang it on solid picture hooks on the wall. Don't commit the blunder of hanging your precious original oil painting on regular nails as they are not strong enough to hold the heavy frame for a long time. And whenever you do carry the oil painting, make it a point to hold it strongly with both hands. Don't carry it by the hanging wire as the wire can detach.

Frame your valued possession carefully and see how it's beauty gets an added dimension.