If you’re thinking of getting your picture framed, chances are, you’ll have heard
a number of picture framing companies tell you that you should opt for
wooden frames. Granted that wooden frames are very resilient and
elegant, that doesn’t mean that they can be made from just any wood.
Wood can be categorized into two broad types, hardwood and softwood.
However, this is where things get tricky. Hardwood doesn’t mean the
wood’s denser or harder, nor is softwood, softer, more malleable. The
terms hardwood and softwood, in fact, refer to the type of seeds of
these trees. The seeds of hardwood trees have an outer covering, like a
walnut or an apple, while those of softwood tend to have ‘naked’ seeds,
like pine and balsam. In other words, hardwood comes from deciduous
trees, softwood comes from coniferous trees. That said, here’s what you
need to keep an eye out for.
Actual Hardwood Or Dense Softwood?
Quite a few picture framing companies tend to use the terms hardwood
and softwood in a different context. They tend to classify woods into
these two categories based on how dense and hard they are. That’s where
you have to be extra careful. Are you really getting a hardwood frame or
just a dense softwood frame? Knowing the names of your woods helps in
this matter.
Finishes!
Another thing most custom picture frame makers do is use a softer
hardwood such as basswood to make the frame, then polish it and give it a
walnut or cherry finish. Make sure you ask your frame maker exactly
what wood they’re using, and ask them for specifically for hardwoods
such as maple or mahogany. If they mention ‘finish’ anywhere, be wary
and ask them for a clarification.
Check The Wood!
One easy way to check whether the wood being used is actually
hardwood is by scratching it a bit with your nail. If it scratches
easily, it’s not hardwood.
Hardwoods Have Better Grains!
Hardwoods have distinct grain patterns that are very well defined.
Softwoods, on the other hand, do not. Hardwoods are harder to work with
but look beautiful when polished or varnished properly. Their grain is a
sure-fire sign of what kind of wood is being used in the picture frame.
Why Pick Hardwood Over Softwood?
Simply put, the softwoods used in picture framing are usually softer
and hence, more prone to damage and wear over time. They tend to warp
with time and changes in the weather and humidity, and can also ooze
sap. This makes them very unsuitable for picture frames that are meant
to last at least ten years. That said, not all hardwoods are suitable
for picture frames either.
Click through to the link for more information on picture framing and custom frames Melbourne.
