Family Tree Desk Top and Collage Wall Photo Frames: A Gift They Will Love and Cherish

It all started with an email. I met a woman online who was researching a similar surname as me. It was an uncommon surname that was created by one of my ancestors in the 1830s. Originally it was de Mello but around 1830 my ancestors began using the compound surname de Mello Castanho. Everyone from the village of Maia, Ribeira Grande in the Azores who is a de Mello Castanho is related to me in some way.

Her ancestor's name was Engracia de Mello Castanho from the same village. Surely, she was related but we had a gap in our research between 1870 and 1900. Because of this, we weren't able to make a connection at first.

We dedicated ourselves to researching the line from opposite ends. Eventually, we figured out our mystery relative and we connected her to the tree, and thus, to each other.

One day around Christmas, I got a box in the mail from this cousin. I opened the box and found this beautiful family tree picture frame. I was so excited that I set it up that night. It was so beautiful when completed!

It holds a place of honor in the middle of my dresser. Sometimes I stand in front of it for a little genealogy meditation time. I will cherish it always!

Before I put my frame together, I needed to decide which photographs to use. They had to be small enough so the head of the person sat correctly within the frame, but not so small you couldn't tell who it was.

Some photographs weren't going to work. There was too much distraction around the individual or their head didn't fit in the frame. Some needed a little digital manipulation before I could use them.

When you set out to do your own frame, remember that you'll have to cut the photographs up to put them in the frames. Please don't use originals or the only copy that you have. Once it's cut up that's it. Make a copy or two to work with. That way if you mess up or you change your mind you won't have ruined something that can't be replaced.

I decided to go with all black and white shots. Once I had the right mix in the right size, I was ready to put it together.

It's difficult to find my same exact frame at this time. However, you can still find frames within the same series that has a very similar design.

This is a lovely frame is the same style with small leaf detailing. The only difference is that nstead of five frames on the top row it has four frames. It holds 12 photographs rather than 13.

This pedestal standing frame displays your photos with a classic look and feel.

My frame comes with thirteen leaves. The leaves come in two sizes. There are four larger ones and nine smaller ones.

You can arrange the leaves in any order that you like. You might like to arrange your tree by generations or couples. My tree in a mixture as I didn't have an equal amount of photos for each side of my tree. My parents, grandparents, and great grandparents are represented.

I hope some day to have representation of all my great grandparents. Until then, this will do just fine.

Once I decided what photographs to use in my tree, it was a piece of cake to fill the frames. Each frame opens easily from the back. Just slide the metal piece over then lift the black piece out.

I cut the photographs to the size of the frame on the inside. The black back piece or the clear plastic "glass" was my guide for the proper dimensions.

Once I set the photograph inside the frame, I returned the back piece to the proper position, and slid the metal piece back over so that it was secure. The I hung the frame on a hook! And, then I moved it and moved it again. An hour later I was satisfied with my presentation.

You might be looking for something a little different than the frame my cousin gave me. There are so many styles to choose from. You are sure to find a great frame that is exactly what you're looking for!

You might be looking for something traditional or a little different. There are so many styles to select from. These are some of the best for table tops and shelves.

The Hallmark Metal Tree Pedestal Style shown at right is a beautiful frame, don't you think? If I had my druthers and was going to purchase one for myself, this is the one I would get. It's a lovely design. I love the contrasting colors. And, it really shows off your ancestors.

It holds ten photographs, so you can do your parents, your grandparents, and your great grandparents. The Hallmark Family Tree Frame is a metal frame. It measures 19.5" x 19.5" with a 7" x 5.5" base. This would look great in the living room or hallway table.

There are others to consider:

• The Malden Family Tree has a multi-tone finish. It is two sided. It holds 14 photographs in circular and square frames.
• The Bronze Family Tree is a dark colored tree with a square base. It comes with 6 frames.
• The New View Family Tree Wall Style has room for seven photos that surround the phrase "Our Family Grows with Love". This one is made of metal.
• The Prinze Generations is a black wood frame. It has a silk screen design embellishing the glass. It has the phrase "Generations: A Legacy of Love" on the glass. It hold 6 4"x6" photographs.
• The Gorman is perfect for the holiday season. It is shaped like a Christmas tree. Use it to hold Christmas memories.

Do your research. Decide what colors and styles you want. There's one out there perfect for you!

Not much table space available? Maybe a wall mounted collage of family pictures would be a better choice. You can find them in many shapes and sizes. What a wonderful way to honor your relatives by displaying them over the on the wall.

I really like this design of the Maldon Ironworks Family Tree Collage. The tree is delicately woven into the background of the photographs. The black outline would fit with many different types of décor (no colors clashing!) It measures 15 1/2 inches by 13 1/2 inches. The largest spot is 4x5 while the others are 3x5

Instead of hanging multiple frames this cuts down on the clutter. You could also make it the center of a design with several other photographs around it highlighting different branches of the tree.

Are you the do-it-yourself type? You can create your own family tree collage and put it in a frame. All you need is a computer and software that will help you create a design.

If you can draw, you might like to design it yourself. If not, there's software that can help you. Most genealogy software has an option to print a photo tree as long as you have photos connected to the people in your database. I've used the photo chart feature of RootsMagic genealogy software to create this chart. (Needs a couple of more photographs before it is complete!)

You can also find different designs on the web. Do a search for "decorative genealogy charts".

There are some questions you should consider before you buy:

1. Do you have enough photographs to fill the frame?
2. Does your recipient have a table top to put it on? Many elderly people live in small apartments. A pedestal frame may not be the right choice if they have limited space.
3. Do they have room for a wall frame? Be sure to consider how large the frame is so that it will fit in the intended space.
4. Should you buy a modern looking frame or something more traditional? Is your recipient someone who likes contemporary things or do they prefer antiques and traditional looking stuff?

Anyone interested in their genealogy has a whole collection of photographs that they'd like to show off. Wouldn't it be nice if you could display your family tree in a frame design just for this purpose? Well, you can!

There are many family tree picture frames available. Some stand up and are perfect for a shelf or desk. Others are meant for display on your walls.

I'll show you one I received as a gift one Christmas. Then, I'll show you two examples that I think are magnificent. I wouldn't mind owning either! If you are a do-it-yourselfer you can create something from your computer.

This is a great way to display your heritage. They make great gifts, too! Mom, Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa...they'd be proud to share their history with one of these fine frames. It's a wonderful way to share your love with other family members, especially if that person is difficult to buy for!

Planning to give one as a gift?

Before buying, you should think about what style the recipient would enjoy most. An elderly person with limited space, might prefer something that goes on the wall than one that sits on the table. A renter may not be able to put anything up at all.

Also, you need to decide whether you'll fill it in or allow the recipient to do it themselves. This really depends on who it's for. If you are giving it to a friend, they'll probably want to select their own photos. However, your Mom would probably love seeing all the photos lovingly selected for her. Another option is to give the gift of time along with it. What better way to spend an afternoon then rummaging through old pictures! At least I think so.

And, remember, if you decide to fill the frame yourself, be sure you have enough photos! Count how many spots are available and how many photos you have before you purchase.

I know that I cherish my frame. I find myself stopping to look at it each day. I try to take a moment to think about my ancestors and give thanks for my heritage.