Floating Frames UK: Expert Tips for Choosing the Perfect Art Frame

Floating frames have transformed the UK market with a remarkable 30% growth in the last five years. This revolutionary display method has changed how we showcase and protect artwork. Contemporary art galleries have embraced this shift, and 70% now showcase their exhibits in floating frames. 

The options are extensive when you think over floating frames for canvas or learn about floating picture frames for your home gallery. Artists and collectors have shown overwhelming support, with 85% expressing high satisfaction with these frames' modern esthetic and practical benefits. Custom framing market trends reflect this enthusiasm, as floating frames now make up 25% of all orders. 

This piece offers a complete roadmap to direct you through the UK floating frame market. You'll discover everything about choosing the perfect floating frame for your artwork, from frame type selection to installation requirements. 

Understanding Floating Frame Types in the UK Market 

The UK market offers a fascinating range of floating frames. These contemporary framing solutions are designed for canvas materials stretched over wooden stretcher bars[1]. 

Common floating frame styles available in Britain 

Floating frames stand out with their unique design that makes artwork appear to float inside the frame. The frames create a shadow gap of 5-10mm between the canvas and the frame's inner edge[2]. 

The UK market features these popular styles: 

Traditional Floating Frames: Features a standard profile with clean lines 

Deep Profile Frames: Ideal for larger artworks and gallery displays Minimalist Tray Frames: Perfect for contemporary artwork presentation 

Price ranges across different UK regions 

Quality manufacturers often choose Obeche wood as their preferred material[3]. The frames come in several finishes: 

Frame Style 

Available Finishes 

Modern 

Black, Bronze, Gray

Classic 

Natural Wood, Gold

Contemporary 

White, Silver, Pewter[4]

Material quality and standards 

British manufacturers put quality construction first. Most floating frames have pre-drilled countersunk screw holes that secure the canvas firmly[3]. These frames accommodate various canvas thicknesses. 

The frame's internal depth plays a vital role in quality assessment. Manufacturers include proper fittings for both landscape and portrait orientation hanging[5]. High-quality frames feature solid wood construction with options like oak, walnut, maple, tulip, beech, ash, pine, and wenge[2]. 

The frame's internal depth should match your canvas thickness to ensure optimal protection and display. Quality frames include proper mounting hardware and maintain even gap spacing around the artwork's sides. 

Essential Factors for Choosing Canvas Floating Frames 

The right floating frame needs attention to detail and precise measurements. Our experience shows that good planning helps create that perfect gallery-style presentation. 

Measuring your artwork correctly

Note that accurate measurements are vital for floating frames. Standard floaters work best when you add 1/2" to both width and height of your artwork to create a proper floating effect[6]. You should measure your canvas at multiple points because stretched canvases can warp slightly[7]. 

Here's our recommended measurement guide: 

Width and height (measure at three points) 

Canvas depth (common sizes: ¾" and 1¼")[6] 

Corner measurements (account for folded canvas edges) 

Material considerations for British climate 

The UK's varying climate needs careful material selection. Good glazing choice can substantially affect how well your artwork stays preserved. These factors will help you choose: 

Climate Factor 

Recommended Material

High UV Areas 

Acrylic (offers superior UV protection)[2]

High Traffic Areas 

Shatter-resistant materials[2]

Humid Spaces 

Materials with moisture resistance

Budget planning and value assessment 

Good budget planning starts when you understand frame components and long-term value. Custom-sized frames might cost more upfront but protect your art better and fit perfectly[2]. 

To find economical solutions, look for: 

Seasonal sales opportunities[8] 

Bulk buying options for multiple pieces 

Pre-framed artwork alternatives[9] 

Acrylic glazing solutions, often seen as cheaper options, actually have better optical qualities[2]. Glass glazing adds much weight to larger artworks, which should factor into your choice[2]. 

A useful tip: standard-sized prints can lower your framing costs[9]. But unique dimensions need custom-sized frames that fit better and give your artwork extra protection[2]. 

Professional vs DIY Floating Frame Installation 

The choice between professional installation and DIY approaches for floating frames depends on your expertise level and project requirements. Professional installation services in the UK charge between £79.42-£238.25 for standard floating frame installations[10]. 

UK installation service providers 

We partner with installation specialists in a variety of British locations who are a great way to get complete services. Many providers back their work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and will redo the job or give you a refund if you're not happy[11]. These professional installers use experienced art handlers to minimize damage risks during installation. 

Tools and skills needed for self-installation 

If you want to take the DIY route, here are the simple tools you'll need: 

Basic Tools: 

Miter saw or miter box with hand saw (£11.91)[12] 

Drill with countersink bit 

Level and measuring tape Wood glue and clamps 

You'll need proper mounting hardware and wall anchors beyond these basics. We found that creating a floating frame can cost as little as £4.76-£15.88 in materials [10]. 

Common installation challenges and solutions 

Our experience has helped us find several recurring challenges: 

Challenge

Professional Solution

DIY Solution

Frame Tilting 

Proper hook placement 

Use wall bumpers[13]

Canvas Sliding 

Professional mounting 

Double-sided tape[3]

Corner Alignment 

Precision cutting 

Use corner braces[4]

The most common problem we see is a crooked frame. This usually happens because people use just one nail - using two nails with proper spacing works better [14]. Frames that tilt forward often have wire attachments positioned too low [13]. 

Professional installation becomes more valuable for larger artworks. DIY enthusiasts might struggle with weight distribution and proper mounting. Yet with the right tools and patience, you can complete a successful self-installation if you follow detailed guidelines and take proper precautions. 

Where to Buy Quality Floating Picture Frames 

Quality floating frames are readily available in the UK. Our market research shows several reliable options that work well for professional artists and home decorators alike. 

Top UK suppliers and manufacturers 

The Picture Gallery UK leads the market with canvas floating frames in three different depths[15]. Their frames come in black, white, gray, gold, silver, and wood veneer tones[15]. EasyFrame.co.uk is another major supplier that's been around for years. They specialize in custom-sized floating frames[16]. 

Online vs physical store shopping 

Shopping experiences differ between online and brick-and-mortar stores. Online retailers excel with: 

Custom sizing options with precise measurements Virtual visualization tools for frame selection More styles and finishes to choose from

Physical stores let you inspect the frames in person. Online framers run their business with lower overhead costs, which means better prices for customers[5]. Home delivery makes online shopping particularly useful for people in remote areas[5]. 

Shopping Aspect 

Online Stores

Physical Stores

Price Range

More competitive 

Variable

Selection 

Extensive 

Limited to stock

Customization 

Advanced options 

Simple options

Delivery 

Direct to door 

Self-pickup

Warranty and return policies 

Warranty coverage differs between suppliers. Most manufacturers back their products with one-year warranties against manufacturing defects[17]. Custom-made frames usually come with strict return policies because they're made to specific requirements[18]. 

Warranties typically cover: 

1. Manufacturing defects 

2. Hardware malfunction protection 

3. Delivery damage guarantees 

Customers need to report damage within 7 days of delivery[18]. Some retailers offer premium shipping options to protect frames during transit[5]. Online retailers handle returns quickly, and many ship replacement items the same day if damage occurs[5]. 

Cost-Saving Tips for Frame Shopping 

Smart shopping for floating frames helps you save big money without losing quality. You can make your money go further and still get the perfect frame for your artwork. 

Seasonal sales and discounts 

The timing of your purchase makes a huge difference in price. UK suppliers run seasonal promotions that give up to 10% off custom frames[19]. The biggest savings come from end-of-season sales where you can get up to 50% off selected frames[20]. 

Here are some ways to save: 

Free delivery on orders over £50[21] 

January promotional codes giving 10% off custom frames[19] 

End-of-season clearance events 

Holiday season special offers 

Bulk buying benefits 

Buying in bulk gives you amazing chances to save. Our analysis of supplier policies shows discount tiers that reward bigger orders: 

Quantity 

Discount

3-9 items 

10% off

10-19 items 

20% off

20+ items 

30% off

These multi-buy discounts work for custom-made picture frames and canvas prints[1]. Business customers get even better deals: 

Orders over £500 get 10% savings 

£750 purchases qualify for 20% discount 

£1000+ orders earn 25% off[22] 

Alternative framing solutions 

You have several affordable options to think about. Buying in volume helps you save on shipping costs and per-unit pricing[23]. Professional buyers can access business-level pricing that adds more value: 

Purchase Level 

Benefits

Certificate Programs 

Custom bulk rates

Hotel Fit-outs 

Business pricing

Gallery Collections 

Volume discounts

Many manufacturers now offer environmentally responsible options[23]. These green choices come with competitive prices while keeping high quality standards. Here's how to get the most savings: 

1. Compare shipping costs across suppliers 

2. Review minimum order requirements 

3. Think about group purchases with other artists 

4. Look for overstock sales 

Custom frames come with these quantity-based discounts: 

2+ frames: 10% discount 

5+ frames: 20% discount 

10+ frames: 30% discount 

20+ frames: 35% discount[24] 

Ready-made frames have a different discount structure. It starts at 2.5% for two or more frames and goes up to 20% for orders of 100+ pieces[24]. These tiered discounts make bulk buying great for galleries, businesses, or artists who plan multiple exhibitions. 

Conclusion 

Floating frames have changed how British art lovers showcase their prized pieces. Our largest longitudinal study shows these frames bring both practical advantages and visual appeal to artwork displays of all types. 

Quality floating frames need careful attention to several key factors. Your measurements need to be exact. The materials must suit your climate conditions. Installation takes proper planning. Many art lovers prefer DIY installation, but professional services give peace of mind, especially with valuable artwork.

You can cut costs by a lot with smart shopping approaches. The best deals come from bulk buying, seasonal promotions, and picking the right suppliers. On top of that, warranty terms and return policies need a close look before you buy. 

The perfect floating frame improves your artwork's presentation and keeps it safe for years. Your choice might lean toward classic styles or modern designs. Taking time to research and think about our guidelines will help you find the ideal frame. Note that spending time on selection brings better outcomes than quick decisions, especially when you have precious artwork. 

References 

[1] - https://www.floaterframes.co.uk/discounts 

[2] - https://www.eframe.co.uk/buying-guides/picture-frames/glass-vs-acrylic-glazing/?srsltid=AfmBOoqVMPEbjk3ll8FvBETpHVRqffBjL04dasD0QEGE99H4- G4SHZTA 

[3] - https://www.reddit.com/r/framing/comments/1fronnl/floating_frame_issue/ 

[4] - https://articient.com/pages/floater-frame-spacer-installtion-tips?srsltid=AfmBOoqqEFlRIW_ji4Q7kO96f94rjZqu9qjEG6yNCrPTyoEzbZBk9m1h [5] - https://www.eframe.co.uk/blog/why-choose-online-framing/?srsltid=AfmBOoojNd2RgO_cFd01Pad5XSGzNSW3RM8BsDTodTZaUVAedNZsTCc4 [6] - https://framing4yourself.com/how-measure-floater-frames/?srsltid=AfmBOopF_ymU0qAkXAMlu6EqSExfRMQp0SJGWO_nNLcT8Eifv8l2-rbU [7] - https://framing4yourself.com/how-measure-floater-frames/?srsltid=AfmBOoqqL_Pi75MawRJkHYS017Rsm9VWkv8rndFRoq3-xbzkzUZyeJCE [8] - https://atcharlotteshouse.com/budget-floating-frames/ 

[9] - https://affordableartfair.com/inspiration/how-to-frame-for-your-budget/ 

[10] - https://homemadebycarmona.com/floating-frame-tutorial/ 

[11] - https://genesisimaging.co.uk/services/float-framing/ 

[12] - https://jfritzart.com/blogs/from-the-field/how-to-build-professional-canvas-float-frames? 

srsltid=AfmBOoqooWYGC_5hXHVO4f0mpI7IAKw5UanpQPosKqbry9KPAHjddIq- 

[13] - https://www.framedestination.com/blog/picture-frames/top-8-picture-framing-problems-solved?srsltid=AfmBOorhX-6ygjUaYR6OVqMRJd- OkToHnnbaG8abFXRjqL8rFSHplfHN 

[14] - https://www.framedestination.com/blog/picture-frames/top-8-picture-framing-problems-solved? 

srsltid=AfmBOorFjqMxf5IlDj2i4eqy00maWoEoB12QOz89u1UJ_FBEnkoxb9MR 

[15] - https://picturegalleryuk.com/canvas-floating-frames 

[16] - https://www.floaterframes.co.uk/ 

[17] - https://help.auraframes.com/hc/en-gb/articles/218347598-Aura-s-Warranty-Policy 

[18] - https://www.framesrus.co.uk/refund_returns 

[19] - https://www.framesrus.co.uk/product-category/floater-frames 

[20] - https://www.westelm.co.uk/floating-wood-gallery-frames-d17822?srsltid=AfmBOopV7A1Xy3TjOrIB1sYN4MFlnwz9CLUWjWqspQfg6H7NkuUM5kIK [21] - https://www.easyframe.co.uk/Category/canvas-floater-frames 

[22] - https://www.tradepictureframes.co.uk/ 

[23] - https://www.modernmemorydesign.com/blogs/news/top-10-wholesale-picture-frames-to-save-big-on-bulk-orders? 

srsltid=AfmBOoqhCd1Zu6yA62dkKxyrwfnnYgl4GbqCFDWuto3MjaPhOGdIOBZC 

[24] -https://www.eframe.co.uk/help/discounts/?srsltid=AfmBOoqZsfdqvy9RBpkGEifrVPulTgsx2OrGpa1Q-mNXEWS9TRnDYeXe