FRAMING YOUR ART
There are so many options when it comes to framing your art. Do I frame or not frame an original painting? Do I put an art print under glass or add a mat? Where do I even get the best frame ?
The options are endless.
Which is why I’m here to help guide you to a few of my favorite options.
ORIGINAL ART // STRETCHED CANVAS
Let’s start with some stretched canvas ideas, shall we?
NO FRAME STRETCHED CANVAS
There’s no right or wrong answer here, it’s going to be all about preference.
The first thing I like to look at is the edge of the painting. Some artists choose to leave their edges unpainted, some paint them a solid color and others continue the painting onto the edge. Like I said, there’s no right or wrong way to do this. My personal preference (mind you, this is just an opinion here) is that I don’t mind hanging my canvas without a frame if it’s a nice thick edge and it’s painted. I’m just not a huge fan of an unpainted edge, although you’ll find great designers who use them and it’s gorgeous.
The second thing you need to take note of is the width of the edge. I love some big chunky edges and enjoy painting them on a 1.5” canvas, although not always. To me, that size and up makes more of a statement and has a more finished look.
FRAMED STRETCHED CANVAS
The second option is to frame your canvas. My absolute FAVORITE way to frame them is in a simple, thin floating canvas frame that doesn’t take away from your art. These can be a bit pricey, but you’ve already invested in art, why not make sure that it has a frame that doesn’t take away any value by adding a cheap frame? Here are some of my most favorite places to buy floater frames from:
Ampersand Floating Frames from Dick Blick
Canvas Place Unfinished Maple Floating Frames
FRAMING CANVAS PRINTS
If you have purchased a canvas print, you’ll want to display it with something to make it shine. Finding a frame can be daunting, because there are so many options and choices to choose from. The two questions to ask when you are looking for a frame is 1. Which frame? and 2. Do you need to add a mat or not?
SEARCHING FOR A FRAME
Keep it simple. You don’t want to outdo or compete with your artwork. If your eye goes to the frame because it’s too busy or it clashes, it’s probably not the best option.
Match the style of frame with the style of painting. A more traditional frame can look beautiful with a more classic, traditional style of art whereas a modern frame can be paired with more modern art, pop art, or something abstract.
Cool or warm toned frames. Not always a rule, but if in doubt, pair a silver or gray frame with cooler toned paintings. A gold, bronze or warm wood will look great with warmer toned paintings. Black, white and neutral wood tones can always act as neutrals and go with either.
Match it to your decor. Try matching your frames to the finishes in your home if you’re staying a little more one note with your decor. If you tend to mix it up in your home, pick one that you already have and match it to that for some continuity.
TO MAT OR NOT TO MAT
There isn’t a right or wrong way with this one as it comes down to preference. If you feel like your piece looks beautiful in a frame without a mat, then that’s your answer. Here are some reasons, however, to mat your artwork.
To draw focus. Adding a mat can bring the eye in so that the focus can be on the art.
To protect your art. If you are framing with glass, this can keep your art from touching the glass giving space between.
Can help smaller art have a bigger impact. If you have purchased smaller art, you can give it a bigger impact by going big with a frame and adding a large mat around it to fit it.
Many different types of mats. I’ll leave it to the experts on this one, but if you do decide to put a mat with your artwork, you can choose a simple option or spice up the cuts or openings a bit with double matting, floating mats, additional grooves or colors.
WHERE TO PURCHASE FRAMES?
Local Framer. Check in your area to see if you have a local framer that can go through options and help you choose a frame. This can be one of the pricer options, but a sure bet to display your art in a great way and create a timeless investment.
Online Framers. You can just as easily send your art to an online framer as a local one now. A couple of great options are Framebridge, or Simply Framed.
DIY Framing. There are so many great places to purchase frames a little more inexpensively. Here are a few of my favorites:
The biggest advice I can give you is to have a plan as soon as you purchase! Whether you hang a canvas as is or get it framed, have a plan and act on it so that you can enjoy your art as soon as you can! Don’t order it and let your beautiful purchase sit waiting!
Enjoy!!