Pictures are typically kept securely in frames using small metal tabs known as points.
The Preferred Method: Using Points
According to framing practices, the preferred method for securing contents in a frame are “points”. These points are essentially small metal tabs located on the backside of the frame.
You might already be familiar with these points from pre-made or "gift" frames. They are the tabs you usually need to bend up to remove the promotional insert or placeholder contents that come with a new frame. Once the old contents are out, you place your picture, matting, and backing board into the frame. Then, you bend the points back down to hold everything snugly against the glass and frame edge.
How Points Work
- Preparation: Turn the frame over to access the back.
- Opening: Bend the metal points upwards or outwards, away from the center of the frame.
- Insertion: Carefully remove any existing contents (like the placeholder paper) and insert your picture, matting, and backing board stack into the frame recess.
- Securing: Bend the points back down so they press firmly against the backing board. This pressure keeps the entire stack (picture, mat, backing) securely in place against the glass and within the frame.
Using points provides a simple, effective, and reusable way to change out the contents of a picture frame whenever needed.
