How To Create A Framed Grouping

Grouping frames or creating a collage of images can be a wonderful way to create an impressive accent display while highlighting pieces that have a common theme. No space is off limits. You can use a space over a couch or other large piece of furniture, a bare wall over a staircase, or the wall space running the length of a hallway. There are several ways to create an eye-catching, interesting collage that will enhance a space in your home or office.

Using a Frame Border

The example above illustrates how you can use one or two larger pieces placed in the center surrounded by smaller ones to create a border. This technique is especially good for a flat space that will be used as a visual accent above a piece of furniture. This grouping is easy to master by following a few simple guidelines: a) Use complimentary color or black and white images to achieve continuity. b) Select frames in the same color or two complimentary colors and arrange them to showcase the images to their best advantage. c) Experiment with a contrasting wall color to really make the frames and images ‘pop’ against the background.

Working With a Center Line

Establishing a common center line separating two rows of images creates the continuity needed to generate visual interest by varying heights and shapes at the top and bottom of the collage. This technique is especially good for long continuous spaces like hallways because it gives the viewer a chance to see each image as part of the group and individually. The same guidelines suggested above apply, although there is a bit more room for variation if the collage is especially large. You can also employ this technique at an angle to work your way up a staircase wall.

 Linear Hanging Images

Selecting frames of approximately the same size and color in different shapes, and using images that are either color or black and white enables you to hang them from a cord, ribbon or wire vertically. Although the frames appear to be hanging from the ribbon, the ribbon is placed first and then the frames are hung from picture hooks. This is especially attractive when using wedding photographs or pictures of children. Often seen in a child’s nursery, this is a fun way to display pictures with special sentimental value.

So…What’s Wrong With This Grouping?

Now that you’ve learned about some different methods used to group images, look at the example above and try to figure out what’s missing. Something makes it incomplete. How would you fix it? 

Now It's Complete...

By making the suggested correction, a better balance is achieved and the entire collage is more attractive and interesting.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Use craft paper or cardboard sized to duplicate your frames and find the arrangement you like best by moving them around on the wall. Once you settle on an arrangement, start hanging the frames. Before you know it, you’ll have created a fantastic photograph or art collage.

Masten Fine Framing and Gifts can help you with ideas, materials and framing to assure your project will look great! 

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