Factors to Consider When Deciding on the Perfect Picture Frame

A picture of any kind only looks as good as the frame you put it in. A classy frame can turn a basic print into something stunning, whereas the wrong frame can end up making the most gorgeous piece of art look completely out of place. Before you put a picture on display in your home, office, or other location, you need to take the time to pick the right frame for it. Here are several questions to guide you through the decision-making process.

Will the Frame Be Hung or Standing?

Most people end up hanging picture frames on the wall, but another option is to stand the frame up on a table or shelf. This is common when decorating an office with a special photo or creating displays on bookshelves or wall shelves in the living room. When you want to stand a frame on a surface, you will need to choose a frame that includes a sturdy easel back.

How Big Will the Frame be Compared to the Room?

You don't want an imposing picture frame to take over a small room, so it's important to evaluate the space before making a purchase. Consider the size of the room and how much attention you want to draw to the picture or the frame. In a large room, it may be appropriate to choose an oversized frame and add a large mat around the picture to help fill a large wall. The frame presentation you choose becomes part of the décor, too.

What Dimensions Should the Frame Have?

In general, it's best to have a frame that exactly matches the size of the picture you're framing. If you're including a mat around your image, the dimensions are usually even on all four sides. A typical mat border is around 2 1/2", but on larger pieces it's common to see a 5" border or wider. Border size is a personal preference; the only "rule" is to create a balance of frame, mat and image that's pleasing to you!  If you are framing an extra-large or very long piece, or if the focal point of the piece happens to be near the bottom, consider “weighting” your mat by opting for a wider border across the bottom. In other words, select a mat that's a little wider on the bottom than on the top and sides. This gives a feeling of support for the heavy piece, makes it more balanced and easier on the eyes.

If you have a picture that has unconventional dimensions, custom framing is the way to go so you get a frame that is the exact dimensions you need. If you're opting for custom canvas printing, choose your frame at the same time you select the dimensions for the canvas.

What Color Frame is Best?

The frame color you choose should fit in with the color scheme of the room. Wood picture frames bring a warmer feel and work well with more traditional decor schemes. Many people with more modern decor opt for simple, classic black picture frames, which tend to have a sleek and streamlined appearance. If you're trying to make a picture pop or draw out a particular color in it, then colored frames or mats are an excellent option.

How Much Attention Should the Frame Draw?

This last question can help you choose between several frames that might have caught your eye. If you're framing a picture you love, and you don't want to draw too much attention away from it, a simple frame is the best option. On the other hand, if you have a very simple photo or piece of art, an elaborate frame can add drama to the total composition.

The frame you choose for a picture has a huge impact on the overall effect when you're viewing it. Start with an open mind, consider the many available options, and narrow your choices based on your answers to these questions. Remember, custom framing is always available to get just the frame you're looking for!

A 30-day Photography Challenge

Ahhh.. it's been quite a while since I last joined a 30-day Photography Challenge. I was keen on doing those challenges before but later on I got tired doing them.

While browsing online found this old 30-day Photography Challenge from littlemissholls.com that they did few years ago and I'm so tempted to do it. My DSLR is also collecting dust in my drawer so I guess it's now to bring it out and shoot. Non-usage of camera also can contribute to its malfunction so I have to use it anyway. Now I have a reason to shoot each day.

Let's see if I can do it. Yay!

Is Bankruptcy the Best Solution for Me?

Filing for bankruptcy might seem like the simplest option to solve your debt problems, but it carries serious implications that can change your life. From being unable to rent a house to having restrictions placed on your bank account, becoming bankrupt can affect you in a range of ways you may not have envisaged. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself when considering if bankruptcy is the best solution for you.

How Much Do I Need to Owe To Become Bankrupt?
Bankruptcy occurs when you are unable to meet your financial obligations to your creditors, and have been unable to come to any other arrangement or agreement with them. There is no prescribed limit on what you owe before you can file for voluntary bankruptcy, however a creditor can make you bankrupt if you owe more than $5,000.

What Happens After I Have Filed for Bankruptcy?
A trustee will be appointed to oversee your affairs once you have filed for bankruptcy, and your creditors will no longer be able to contact you. Your financial situation will be thoroughly examined, and some of your assets may be sold to recover funds for creditors. Your financial institution may restrict your bank accounts and refuse the use of your credit cards once you are bankrupt.

What Is Considered an Offence?
There are a number of things that are considered an offence once you take the option of bankruptcy. You can be prosecuted if you fail to disclose assets, dispose of property before bankruptcy to defeat creditors, obtain credit without disclosing your status as bankrupt and leaving the country without the trustee’s permission. The consequences can be as severe as 3 years imprisonment if you are convicted.

Is There Anything Else I Should Try Before Bankruptcy?
Yes! Remember that bankruptcy should be your absolute last resort. It is a serious undertaking which has significant consequences, potentially affecting you for many years to come. Before choosing to become bankrupt, you should speak to a debt solutions specialist such as Fox Symes. They can help you to assess your situation, and suggest a range of solutions which may help you to avoid bankruptcy.

These can include debt consolidation, as well as negotiating with your creditors to create a manageable plan for repaying your debts. This will allow you to focus on one monthly payment at the minimum rate of interest, while actively reducing your debt. You may feel like your debt is unsurmountable, however with professional help, you can regain control of your finances and feel secure again.

No matter how serious your debt situation may seem, there are a range of options that you can explore without filing for bankruptcy. Speaking to a professional debt solutions agency will ensure that you are being given the best possible advice every step of the way. If you do decide bankruptcy is your only option, they will be able to assist you from start to finish. Choosing a reputable company such as Fox Symes, the leading Australian debt solutions specialist, is essential to ensuring your finances are in the best possible hands.

Written by Emma Jane http://www.foxsymes.com.au/

3 Canvas Prints (up to 20" x 30") for $24.99 with Free Shipping

Here's another sale from Artscow:
3 Canvas Prints (up to 20" x 30") for $24.99 with Free Shipping

Since it's graduation season here in our part of the world, those graduation pics are perfect to be enlarged and hang on the wall.

Coupon Code:	LRGUNSTRETCH13
Expiry Date:	4 / 13 / 2013

5 Breathtaking Locations in Australia to Build Your Waterfront Homes

Australia has long boasted some of the most impressive beaches, shorelines, rivers and bays in the world. Their pristine beaches and crystalline waters, rich in wildlife and draped in brilliant Aussie sunshine, attract waterfront buyers from all over the globe. While they are certainly spoiled for choice when it comes to waterfront living, here are 5 breathtaking locations you might like to consider for building a stunning waterfront home.

Gold Coast, QLD

Queensland’s gold coast boasts one of the world’s hottest property markets. Drawing tourists and investors from all over the globe, a waterfront home here, whether it’s beachside or amongst the Gold Coast’s extensive network of canals and inlets, is an exclusive privilege. Gold Coast builders rarely find themselves short of new projects, with state of the art developments constantly popping up around its banks and bays. With white beaches, calm canals and incredible sunny days to enhance your daytime scenery, the Gold Coast is one of Queensland’s most beautiful choices for waterfront developments.

Sydney Harbour, NSW

The Sydney property market never seems to manage to deter investors. Sydney’s median housing prices eclipse even those of New York and London. The demand for property in Sydney Harbour consistently outweighs the available supply, and Sydney Harbour waterfront properties never escape demand for serious property investors. Sydney Harbour is one of the most iconic and exclusive waterfront areas on the planet, so it’s little surprise that demand eclipses supply here. It’s a truly stunning scene with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and occasional dolphin and whale sightings all possible from waterfront property here.

Scarborough, WA

Perth’s coastal suburb of Scarborough is only 14km northwest of the city’s centre, boasting some of the most luxurious waterfront properties and stunning coastal views on the western coast. With a rich cultural scene, thriving nightlife and world-class dining, it’s a great all-round destination for home buyers who lead an active lifestyle both day and night. When not wining, dining and dancing the night away, Scarborough residents can take full advantage of the incredible outdoor paradise, with stunning views and breathtaking landscapes to explore.

Burnie, TAS

Burnie is the idyllic seaside community that lovers of exquisite waterfront, heavenly open skies, vast and sprawling country landscapes and a truly laid back lifestyle. For home buyers who wish to escape the sprawling suburbs and hectic city life, Burnie is the ultimate Tasmanian waterfront paradise. While the ocean views from the CBD are a little tarnished by the port, the surrounding coastline is a truly remarkable location where fresh air and outstanding ocean views create a Shangri-la for sea-change-seeking city slickers.

Chelsea, VIC

30km south-east of Melbourne lies the picturesque suburb of Chelsea. Skirted by the calm lagoon-like waters of Port Phillip Bay, it’s a sheltered oasis full of idyllic waterfront properties. With its surrounding parks and boutique shopping, and easy accessibility to the city, it’s the perfect bay-side escape for commuting couples and growing families. Chelsea doesn’t leave much to be desired when it comes to community and comfort. With its real estate demands remaining steady, it makes a sound investment for buyers, and the fact that supply is, on average, keeping up with that demand makes it an accessible market. Whatever your tastes, whatever your needs, whatever your budget, you’re bound to find the waterfront investment of your dreams at one of these outstanding seaside locations, just waiting to be transformed into your very own retreat.

Personalized Phone Cases from $9.99 with Free Shipping

These days, personalized or customized items are very popular. Anyone can personalize your gadgets'cases such as tablets, cellphones and more. You can put pictures, logos and anything you want on your cases.

Check this PROMO: Personalized Phone Cases from $9.99 with Free Shipping from Artscow.com

Coupon Code:	HARDSHELLCASE
Expiry Date:	4 / 11 / 2013

4 Tips to Choose the Perfect Wedding Bouquets

image from: good-wallpapers.com

There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to choosing the perfect bouquet, and it can be a little overwhelming when you first start doing your research. For the most part, your decision will depend on the theme of your wedding and the looks that you’re going for. Here are 4 tips to help you choose the perfect bouquet for your wedding.

A Bouquet to Suit Your Build

A lot of brides forget to take into account the visual effect that a bouquet has when it comes to body shape and size. If you are very petite, a large bouquet held close to the body will completely hide your figure and the intricacies of your dress. Taller or curvier brides can pull off larger and more dramatic bouquets.

Dress First, Flowers Second

It’s very hard to create a harmonious match when you have organised the bouquet before the dress. Make sure you have chosen your dress and wedding theme before you get started on the bouquet. If you’ve spent hours customising your wedding invites

to match your theme, you’d hate to ruin the cohesiveness of everything by having the wrong flowers!

It helps to take a few pictures of your dress with you when you go for your consultation with a professional florist. They will be able to give you great advice on which flowers will suit the colour, texture and style of your wedding dress. It might not sound like much, but paying attention to these small details will make sure that you avoid any discordant and mismatched pairings between flowers and dress. Choosing your flowers to compliment your dress will create a truly effortless and elegant look.

Make it Personal

The wedding is a special day to celebrate the love you and your partner share. Creating a bouquet that not only looks stunning, but has personal meaning to you is a really special touch. Maybe he bought you your favourite red roses when he proposed, or you used to spend hours amongst the field flowers having a picnic. Incorporating these special flowers into your bouquet adds a whole new layer of meaning, as well as being visually beautiful.

Beautiful Yet Budget Conscious

Always keep your budget in mind when you’re planning a bouquet. It’s easy to get carried away, but just remember that sometimes the simplest designs are the most elegant and effective. A really good tip for getting your dream bouquet without breaking the bank is to create your design based on the flowers that are currently in season. Your florist will be able to give you some great advice on which flowers are currently blooming, and how they can work together in a wedding bouquet. Your bouquet is more than just a pretty accessory on your special day, it is a personal and unique expression of the love shared between you and your partner. Make it the most beautiful bouquet possible by following these top tips.

My FREE to use Wedding Template

Weddings will always be special. Every couple's symbol of love and unity will be their wedding rings.

These days, wedding photobooks are very popular for it showcases all the precious photos during your wedding ceremony and reception. There are time ordering wedding books from your photographer can be very expensive but if you are on a budget you can do your own.

You can use my free and easy to use Wedding Template at artscow. This template has already a layout with decorations and frames wherein you can just drag and drop your photos. This is customizable and you can easily move the frames, add your own text or just use as is.

See the inside pages and use this wedding template here.

My 28th 8x8 Photobook from Artscow

Mom turned 79 on Oct. 18th 2011 and we gave her a simple but meaningful and fun birthday party. Actually it was a pre-birthday partyfor it was held Oct. 16th. Almost all her godchildren are there and it made her so happy. I thought she'll have a color theme so I told everyone to wear violet shirts but unfortunately some didn't show up with that color because I gave them a very short notice hehe.

Anyway, I had to comply all her birthday photos and I thought I just made a simple layout for I don;t have that much time to make intricate layouts. I just wanted to emphasize the photos so there are pages that it only contains 1 photo as you can see at the photos below.

As usual have it printed at ARTSCOW and I'm satisfied with the outcome.

How Small Shower Baths Combine the Best of Both Worlds

There are two rooms that make and sell a house and those are the bathroom and the kitchen. Kitchens may be the heart of the home, but bathrooms are often the mind – a place where occupants can relax after a long day or a stressful event.

That being said, it is important to get this space right so that you have the relaxing room of your dreams and prospective buyers can imagine themselves winding down in it. This need not mean that you have to create a huge space or spend a lot of money, however, as there are many ways to achieve the perfect set-up if you have limited space or budget.

People relax in different ways so it is important to cater for everyone where possible. Some people desire nothing more than a comfortable, long soak in the tub after a long day, while others add more luxury by bringing along a book and a glass of wine. For others, a bath is not the answer, but a long soak under a hot shower may help to ease some of the stresses of life.

That being the case, it is vital to ensure you combine the best of both worlds where possible and cater for both options. Sometimes it may not seem possible to have both a shower and a bath when you have limited space or budget, but there is an easy answer: combine the two.

There is no hard and fast rule that says people who enjoy showers need a separate shower stall, just as there is no rule that says baths must be enormous to be enjoyable; small shower baths allow you to enjoy both while not compromising on the function or appeal of either.

Showers can still offer a wide range of functions if they are installed within a bath setting and choosing an option such as a sliding bath door makes this even more appealing. Both electric and waterfall showers work just as well affixed above a bath and users will enjoy having more room to move around than a shower stall alone could offer.

Smaller baths also need not be a compromise as many are made with comfort as well as space saving in mind and offer a lot of internal space, though they may have a smaller profile. Middle tap fixtures can also add space and tapered baths are often the best way to make the most of a small room so that it is still possible to fully stretch out your legs in the tub. Small shower baths really do combine the best of both worlds, so do not write them off as an option until you have considered their advantages.

Frank Mason is a self-employed contractor who specialises in bathroom fittings and refurbishment and has recently begun writing for a number of websites and blogs. Frank ensures that he is up to date with new developments by using a variety of online sources to install small shower baths and other bathroom fixtures.

Color Meanings in Design

Colors and people's emotions are connected to each other, so here's a guide about colors and their meanings. You can even use this guide when you are designing or creating your works of art.

Source: designspiration.net via Motiona on Pinterest

Learning the First Chords

The son of my cousin is showing interest on playing the guitar. At 11 years old he wanted to learn it and dream of playing at their church someday. It was a nice thought and dream of this young lad and I know that he can fulfill his dream if he has passion and dedication for it. They already have a guitar at home to practice on and to get started he asked his uncle to teach him play the guitar once the summer vacation starts by April. Actually he is already learning the first few chords all by himself as what my cousin has been telling me.

Cheeky as he is, he even browsed online for new guitars and found some baby taylor for sale

and I'm sure he'll asks his parents to buy one for him. I guess if he is dong well in school and really has high interest in learning to play the guitar, I see no reason why my cousin will not support her child.

20% Off on Photo Gifts at Artscow

My fave printing company online is on sale once again. They are giving their customers 20% off on ALL ITEMS / EVERYTHING when you order your personalized items like photobooks, cosmetic case, calendar, umbrellas, keychains, and whole lot more.

It's personalized so that means you have the liberty to upload your own design or layout that you can put on the item that you will order. If you are not creative enough, you can also use FREE TEMPLATES made by designers like me.

Check out MY FREE TEMPLATES HERE.

Coupon Code:	SPRING20OFF
Expiry Date:	3 / 29 / 2013