A small sign of loving memory

Following bereavement it can be hard to find the appropriate way to display fond memories of a loved one or to commemorate their life.  For some people it may feel right to display a photograph, a poem or some other piece of special memorabilia associated with the deceased, whether it be a family member or a favourite pet.  It may be desired to place a picture or verse next to a grave, tombstone or close to where ashes are scattered.

There are beautiful, elaborate (and sometimes expensive) ways to achieve this with help from the monumental mason or other specialists.  Funeral Directors may well be able to assist with ideas or make arrangements.  However for situations where the budget is restricted or just a simple solution is desired to commemorate a death, it is possible to make use of poster frames normally intended for changeable prints or pictures - and that's where this website may be able to help.

Usually family or friends will be looking for an outdoor solution - perhaps a waterproof picture frame which can be displayed outdoors.  There are a number of important points to consider.

Preserve the original

Firstly always remember that photographs and prints will tend to fade - quite quickly in the case of inkjet prints.  Do not put anything irreplaceable or precious outdoors: make a copy and display that instead, keeping the cherished original safely archived.  You may need to renew or replace the contents of your framed tribute.

Waterproofing the print

To make your printed page or photo waterproof there are two main options.  One is to laminate or encapsulate your print, picture, verse or whatever you wish to display.  If you don't have access to a laminator you can get this done at a local print and copy shop.  You will find that an A4 size page or picture 'grows' slightly during laminating as it is sealed in a clear plastic pouch which is slightly bigger than A4 to enclose and protect the edges.  It is important not to puncture the plastic as this will allow water to enter, spoiling the print.  So drawing pins are no use. Fortunately we have poster frames specially designed to accept laminated prints in popular sizes.

The cheapest laminated size frame is a plastic frame with a slot in the top where you slip in your treasured photo or inscription.  The material used to make them is outdoor grade ABS.  The black plastic poster frames look sober in a graveside setting but there are other colours available too.  Laminated size plastic frames are available in three sizes: A5, A4 and A3.  Remember A5 is half the size of A4.  A3 is the largest at double A4 size. (Readers from US may not be familiar with these paper sizes - but they are known throughout Europe and in many other countries.  Sorry we do not currently have North American sizes like Letter size)

Slightly dearer but still good value is a laminated size snap frame.  These are the type of metal picture frame where you insert your print from the front.  The four sides hinge open and then snap shut after inserting your print.  A clear plastic cover sheet (similar thickness to an overhead projector acetate sheet) is supplied with every snap frame.  In practice with a laminated paper insert it's not really required as the plastic covering of the laminating pouch serves the same purpose - with the additional benefit of waterproofing.  The aluminium frame surround will not rust outdoors.

Choosing a waterproof frame

The other option to achieve a weatherproof display is to use a waterproof snap frame.  These are similar to regular snap frames in that the picture or print is inserted from the front behind a clear plastic cover sheet.  However in this case the poster protector is bedded on a compressible foam sealing strip within which your paper is placed, protecting it from the elements and the penetration of water from rain and dew.

As a specialist supplier of sign holders we have found waterproof snap frames seem to perform well although they have only been around for a couple of years.  Please note that none of these products should not be relied upon as really long term.  If that's what you are after an engraved plaque or carved stone will be a better option (sorry, we do not offer these services).

Respecting the elements

Simply selecting the right frame does not complete the solution outdoors because wind comes into play; and you don't want your personal memento or cherished photo montage to get blown away.

The above mentioned frames can easily be fixed by screwing - in the case of the plastic frames the fixing clips need to be ordered separately. Keyhole wall clips are popular.  Snap frames don't need any extra clips - just open the front of the frame and use the screws and screw-holes provided.

However that only works if there is something suitable to screw the frame onto - perhaps a wooden tree stake or maybe a heavy log can be used.  If fixing by screws is not practical you may be able to bond the frame onto an angled stone slab or similar weighty object using a no-screws type builder's adhesive available from DIY stores or hardware shops.

Animals can be remembered as well

These ideas are also applicable to someone who has lost a much loved pet and may want to cherish the memory of a loyal dog or wonderful cat that will be sorely missed by the family.  A picture displayed in a favourite corner of the garden or on the garden wall can show you remember (and will probably never forget).  It's not quite a commemorative plaque but it will mean a lot to you especially if you put the contents together yourself.  Maybe a craft project will be a small help and comfort to you?

These simple outdoor displays of remembrance don't cost the earth but may help get you a little closer to heaven and the ones you miss.