Tips for Choosing Framed Art as Gifts
A piece of framed art makes a delightful gift for many
occasions. Someone who's moving into a new home, graduating from
college, or retiring from the workforce may appreciate a special
watercolor painting, a chalk drawing, or a beloved photograph
that appears in a gift box. Art pieces can come with frames that
sit on top of a table or shelf, or they can be part of a wall
frame of varying sizes. Find out first if the intended recipient
likes receiving artwork as gifts, and whether she has room for
it in her home or at the office.
1. Have an antique photo framed in a historical-style finish.
This may be tricky if you do not have ready access to the
person's family photos or favorite prints. But you may be able
to get the help of a family member to get a picture of
Great-Aunt Hannah or Great-grandfather Henry. Then have it
enlarged and matted in a beautiful frame that does it justice.
You will need some idea of where it might go in the home, and
whether a wall or table frame is best. Use discretion when
fishing for this information.
2. Give a personal photo in a contemporary frame. Depending on
the type of relationship you have with the recipient, select a
photo that shows a corresponding side of your personality. For
example, if you have fun, goofy times together, choose a picture
that shows a funny expression on your face or one that reflects
a humorous event that the photo will bring to mind. You can even
sign the photo to make it more personal, if you like. Or
decorate the frame with stencils, dried flowers, or stickers for
a memorable touch.
3. Present a special drawing in chalk, pencil, ink, or pens
that you have made or that was made by a pro to commemorate a
special event the two of you attended. For example, if you had
caricatures drawn at last summer's carnival, you might want to
have one framed in a fitting design and give it to someone you
haven't seen in a while, like your sister who lives on the other
side of the country. If you baby-sit someone's children and have
permission to take them out, have their pictures done in a
medium other than photography. Then have the images framed
professionally as a special anniversary or holiday gift to the
parents.
4. Buy an old-fashioned picture at a garage sale or thrift
store and replace the worn frame with a newer but matching one.
Look for themes that will interest your intended recipient,
whether they be drawn from landscapes, people, or places. Have
in mind one or two possible locations for the picture at your
friend or relative's house.
Artwork is fun and decorative to hang around the house. Some
people prefer selecting their own. But if you know people who
don't mind accepting your selections, give some thought to ideas
like these to offer them something a little different.