Master MS Paint: Adding Frames Like a Pro

Ever found yourself needing to add a stylish frame to an image in MS Paint, but struggling with the limited tools? You're not alone. MS Paint, while simple and user-friendly, doesn't have a built-in frame option. However, with a bit of creativity and some workarounds, you can indeed add frames to your images. Let's explore how.

Before we dive in, remember that MS Paint is a basic image editor. Its primary purpose is to provide users with simple drawing and image editing tools. For more advanced framing options, consider using software like Adobe Photoshop or even online tools designed for this purpose.

Using MS Paint's Shapes to Create Frames

MS Paint does offer a range of shapes that can be used to create simple frames. Here's how you can do it:

an old computer screen with some different items in the bottom right hand corner, including paint and

1. Open your image in MS Paint.

2. Click on the 'Shapes' icon in the 'Home' tab. Choose the shape you prefer for your frame.

an ocean scene with waves crashing and a lighthouse in the distance, framed by newspaper clippings

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Rectangle Frames

Rectangle frames are perhaps the most straightforward. Here's how to create one:

1. Choose the 'Rectangle' tool from the 'Shapes' options.

2. Hold down the 'Shift' key while drawing the rectangle to ensure it's perfectly straight.

two pictures of a person holding up a large poster on the beach with their hands

many different frames and pictures are arranged on the wall in this collage with flowers

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Rounded Corners Frames

For a more unique look, try using a 'Rounded Rectangle' or 'Ellipse' frame. Here's how:

1. Choose the desired tool from the 'Shapes' options.

2. Adjust the corner radius for 'Rounded Rectangle' or just draw your shape for 'Ellipse'.

the pink screen is displaying an image on the keyboard and it appears to have been altered

an art project with paint, crayons, and markers on the table next to it

Using MS Paint's Border to Create Frames

Another method involves using the 'Border' tool to trace around your image, creating a simple frame.

1. First, draw a rectangle or other shape around your image using the 'Shape' tools (as described above).

Adjusting Border Color and Width

Now, let's style the border to match your frame:

1. Right click on the border, select 'Format', and then click 'Border' in the top ribbon.

2. In the 'Format Border' panel, choose your preferred border color and width.

Removing the Original Shape

To hide the original shape you drew and leave just the border, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the shape and select 'Format'.

2. Click 'Shape Fill' in the top ribbon, and then choose 'No fill'.

Adding frames to images in MS Paint isn't as straightforward as in more advanced software, but with a bit of creativity and these workarounds, you can still achieve great results. Experiment with different shapes, border widths, and colors to find the perfect frame for your image.