Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Photo Frames in Singapore

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I’ll admit it—there was a time I thought picking a photo frame was as simple as choosing one that looked “nice.” I’d find a sleek black or wooden frame online, order it, and wait for the magic to happen. But when the frame arrived, things didn’t always go as planned. One didn’t fit. Another clashed with my room’s color palette. One even warped after a few months.
Buying a photo frame in Singapore seems straightforward—until it’s not. From humid weather to small living spaces, even the smallest detail can make a big difference. Here’s what I’ve learned (the hard way) and what I now always keep in mind when helping others shop for the right frame.
1. Not Measuring the Photo or the Wall Properly
It sounds basic, but many of us skip this step. I used to eyeball it and think, “This looks about A4-sized.” Only to find out my photo was slightly larger, or worse, the frame was too bulky for my wall.
Tip: Measure your photo and the space where the frame will go. Singapore homes, especially HDB flats or condos, often have limited wall space. Make every centimetre count.
Fact: A study of e-commerce returns found that nearly 30% of returned frames are due to incorrect sizing, either of the photo or the wall placement.
2. Overlooking Frame Material
Wood. Metal. Acrylic. Plastic. Each one has its place, but they don’t all work everywhere.
Once, I bought a thin plastic frame because it looked minimal and cost under $10. Within two months, it bent due to humidity near the kitchen wall. Lesson learned.
Tip:
Use wooden frames for warmth and texture.
Try metal frames for sleek, modern interiors.
Avoid cheap plastic unless you’re using it in low-heat, indoor-only spaces.
For Singapore’s weather, moisture-resistant backing is a plus.
3. Choosing a Frame That Clashes With Decor
A frame is not only a hanger but also a constituent of your room's view. The picture frame may be mesmerizing in a showroom using matte black, but in a bedroom with soft colours, it would be reduced to coldness.
Tip: Get a snapshot of your room and carry it along when you go shopping (or comparison-shop online). Lighting will be natural, the colour of the walls and the level of furniture at hand will also influence the appearance of a frame.
💬 Testimonial: “I bought a white-washed oak frame from Rooh for Spaces, and it blended beautifully with my linen curtains and rattan accents. Online, I would’ve gone with dark walnut—and regretted it.”
— Michelle T., Bukit Timah
4. Forgetting About Mounting or Placement
Tabletop or wall-mounted? Portrait or landscape? Lightweight or heavy? These details matter.
Tip:
For gallery walls, check the weight and whether the frame includes hooks or wire.
For table displays, make sure the stand is stable and can handle minor knocks.
If you're hanging in a hallway or near sunlight, consider UV-protected glass.
Fact: Many imported frames don’t come with the proper mounting hardware for local walls, especially concrete or plasterboard.
5. Going for Price Over Quality
We’ve all been there: tempted by a $4.90 frame that looks decent online. But price often reflects build quality. Frames that feel flimsy, use cheap backing, or don’t protect your photo from moisture can ruin your image over time.
💬 “My wedding photo was discolored in just eight months. The frame had no UV glass, and moisture got in. I wish I had spent a little more on something better made.”
— Daniel L., Clementi
Tip: If the photo is special, treat the frame as part of the investment. Choose acid-free matting and high-quality glass where possible.
6. Bonus Tips I Swear By
Here are three habits I’ve developed over time when shopping for frames in Singapore:
Always check the return policy, especially if buying online.
Bring a physical photo with you if shopping in-store—it helps with matching size and tone.
Start neutral. If unsure, stick with oak, black, or off-white. They rarely go wrong.
Why I Recommend Rooh for Spaces
Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate local brands that care about more than just products—they care about how things feel in your home. Rooh for Spaces is one of those brands. Their photo frames are handpicked, well-crafted, and thoughtfully styled for modern Singaporean interiors.
You can book a private visit, browse pieces that don’t just look good but last, and talk to real people who care about helping you get it right. It’s not about buying “trendy” frames—it’s about choosing one that means something.
Conclusion: Frame the Memory, Not Just the Photo
The right frame does more than protect a photo. It becomes a part of the memory. Whether it’s a graduation shot, a wedding moment, or your child’s drawing, you deserve a frame that enhances, not distracts.
And now, you know what to watch out for. Skip the mistakes I made. Buy with thought, not just impulse.
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Roohfor Spaces
Roohfor Spaces
Custom residential and commercial spaces are the focus of the Singaporean interior design firm Rooh for Spaces. We construct classic, heartfelt interiors that capture your lifestyle by fusing design, functionality, and craftsmanship. https://roohforspaces.sg/