The Easiest Method to Open a Picture Frame Back

May 2, 2025

Picture frames play a vital role in preserving cherished memories and enhancing the aesthetics of your space. Whether you're updating your home decor, replacing an old photo or cleaning the inside of the glass, you will need to open the back of the frame. For many people, this might seem confusing at first—especially if the frame has clips, tabs or is sealed. However, with a little guidance, the process becomes simple and stress-free.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to open the back of a picture frame. You'll learn about the different types of frame backings, the tools you might need and how to handle each step safely. This guide works for both ready-made photo frames and custom picture frames, so you can update, clean or change your display with confidence.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Picture Frame

Before you start working on the frame, it's important to understand what type of backing it has. Picture frames come with different locking mechanisms on the back and identifying the right type will help you open it safely without causing damage.

Common Types of Frame Backs:

Flexible tabs – These are thin metal or plastic pieces that bend to allow removal of the backing. They are common in store-bought photo frames.
Rotating clips – These clips swivel over the back panel and must be turned to open the frame.
Spring clips – Usually found in metal frames, these clips use tension to hold the backing in place.
Sealed backs – Found mostly in professional or vintage frames. These are covered in paper or glued shut and require careful removal.

If the frame has a paper backing that looks like it’s glued down, it likely has a sealed back. Use a sharp utility knife to carefully slice through the paper around the edges.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools

Having the proper tools ready will make the process smoother and help you avoid scratching or damaging your frame or the picture inside.

Useful Tools:

Flathead screwdriver or butter knife – Ideal for lifting tabs or rotating clips.
Soft towel or cloth – Protects the frame and glass from scratches while working.
Tweezers – Helpful for adjusting or removing small elements inside the frame.
Utility knife – Useful for cutting through sealed paper or cardboard backs.
Gloves – Keeps fingerprints off the glass or artwork during handling.

Set up your workspace on a flat, stable surface and place a towel or cloth under the frame to prevent slipping and damage.

Step 3: Place the Frame Face Down

Put the picture frame face down on your soft cloth. This gives you clear access to the back of the frame. Keeping the frame steady during this process helps prevent accidental cracks or scratches, especially if your frame contains real glass.

Step 4: Unlock the Back Panel

Now it's time to open the frame based on the type of backing. Use the correct technique based on your frame:

For Flexible Tabs:

Use a flathead screwdriver or your fingers to lift the tabs one by one. Don’t bend them too far upward, as they can snap or become loose.

For Rotating Clips:

Gently rotate each clip to the side so it no longer overlaps the backing board. You may not need any tools for these.

For Spring Clips:

Press each spring inward or down with your fingers or a flat tool to release the pressure. Once loosened, the backing should lift out easily.

For Sealed Backs:

Use a utility knife to gently cut through the paper seal around the frame's edges. Work slowly and evenly to avoid damaging the frame or the artwork.

Take your time with this step to avoid unnecessary force that could damage fragile parts of the frame.

Step 5: Remove the Backing Board

Once the tabs or clips are released, gently lift the backing board from the frame. Depending on the frame, the board may be made of cardboard, MDF or foam board. Hold the frame with one hand and carefully pull the board out with the other.

Be cautious during this step, especially if the frame is old or if the contents are tightly packed.

Step 6: Remove the Artwork or Photo

Now that the backing is off, you can remove the photo, artwork or mat board inside. Use clean hands or gloves to avoid smudging the photo or leaving fingerprints on the glass.

This is a good opportunity to:

Replace the image with a new photo or print
Clean the inside of the glass using a lint-free cloth
Adjust the matting or reposition the artwork

Make sure the photo or print is flat and free of dust or particles before closing the frame again.

Step 7: Reassemble the Picture Frame

Once you’ve finished updating the contents, place everything back in the frame in reverse order.

First, insert the photo or artwork.
Then, place the backing board on top.
Finally, secure the back using the same tabs, clips or springs you opened earlier.

If your frame had a sealed paper backing, you can reseal it using new craft paper and double-sided tape. This step helps preserve the clean, professional appearance of custom frames.

Helpful Tips for a Clean and Safe Process

Always work on a soft surface to protect the frame and glass.
Take your time—rushing can result in broken clips or cracked glass.
If a tab or clip breaks, visit a craft or framing store for replacements.
Clean the glass before reassembling to keep your photo or print dust-free.
Keep removed hardware like clips or screws in a small container to avoid losing them.

Final Thoughts

Opening the back of a picture frame might seem intimidating at first, especially if you're unfamiliar with the type of frame you’re dealing with. However, once you understand how different picture frame backings work—whether they use flexible tabs, rotating clips, spring mechanisms or sealed paper covers—the task becomes straightforward. Taking the time to learn this simple process can help you manage and maintain your framed artwork or photos with ease.

Whether you're replacing a faded photograph, switching out seasonal art prints, adding a new certificate to your office wall or simply cleaning the glass to restore clarity, knowing how to open a frame properly ensures you do it safely and efficiently. You won’t risk damaging the frame, the glass or the artwork inside, which is especially important for valuable or sentimental items.

Using just a few common tools—like a flathead screwdriver, utility knife, soft cloth and tweezers—you can open almost any picture frame back and reassemble it without complications. Gentle handling and a clean workspace go a long way in preserving the life and appearance of both ready-made frames and custom picture frames.

In addition to learning how to open picture frames, it’s helpful to understand the importance of choosing the right type of frame for your space. Custom frames offer better protection and a tailored look for high-value art, while ready-made frames are ideal for everyday photos and quick decor updates. Both can be opened and reused when handled properly, making them a practical part of any home or office decor setup.

If you're interested in improving your framing skills further, be sure to browse our other blog posts. We offer expert guidance on everything from how to choose the best custom frames, how to hang wall art without damage, to creative ideas for displaying photos in small spaces. These resources can help you elevate the way you showcase your favorite memories and artwork.

By taking good care of your picture frames—and learning how to open and maintain them correctly—you'll keep your space looking polished, personalized and beautifully decorated for years to come.