Master the Art of Framing Artwork with These Essential Tips
Proper framing can increase artwork value by up to 40%. Many art pieces lose their appeal—or worse, suffer damage—because of poor framing choices.
Framing artwork involves more than selecting a pretty border when you display a cherished family photo or an expensive painting. The right materials, preservation techniques, and perfect balance between your art piece and its frame make all the difference.
You don't need an art degree to become skilled at framing artwork. This piece guides you through everything about showcasing your art effectively. You'll learn about selecting the perfect frame style and choosing between DIY solutions and professional services.
Your artwork display can evolve from amateur to gallery-worthy. Let's explore these essential tips that will help you make the right framing decisions every time. Understanding Frame Types and Materials
The first important step to protect and showcase your artwork is picking the right frame type and material. Let's look at some options that will help you make a better choice.
Common frame styles and their best uses
Your frame style choice can really change how people see your artwork. Here are the main styles to think about:
Standard Frames: Perfect for traditional artwork and photographs
Gallery Frames: Ideal for professional displays and exhibitions
Floating Frames: Creates an illusion of artwork floating within the frame
Box Frames: Excellent for adding depth to your artwork display
Deep-set Frames: Perfect for shadowbox effects and dimensional pieces
Choosing between wood, metal and synthetic frames
Each material has its own advantages. Wood frames are the most versatile option and come in countless finishes and styles. Natural wood's unique grain patterns and traditional charm make it appealing. However, humidity and temperature changes can affect these frames[1].
Metal frames, mostly aluminum ones, last longer and work great with contemporary artwork. They resist corrosion better than wood and hold their shape well, which makes them a great choice for bigger pieces[2].
Synthetic frames, including MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) ones, are affordable options. They stay more stable than natural wood and need less upkeep[1]. These frames work well in high-humidity areas or if you're on a budget.
When to think about frameless options
Modern home décor often features frameless displays, and with good reason too. They create a sleek, contemporary look that enhances any space[3]. Frameless options work best when:
Your artwork features gallery-wrapped canvas You want a minimalist look You're displaying high-quality metal or acrylic prints
Frameless displays use top-quality materials like acrylic or metal. They protect your art well while letting it speak for itself[3]. The borderless design lets colors and details shine through clearly. You can easily customize these displays to fit almost any photo size[3].
Matching Frames to Your Artwork Style
Matching frames to your artwork is more than esthetics - it creates harmony between your piece and its presentation. The right frame can boost or reduce your artwork's effect, making frame selection a vital aspect of display.
Frame selection for different art mediums
Each art medium just needs specific framing approaches to highlight its unique features. Here's a guide to match frames with various mediums:
Oil Paintings: Substantial frames complement the richness of colors and textures. Traditional wood or ornate gold-leaf frames work best[4] Watercolors: Frames with acid-free mounts protect delicate paper while creating visual separation
Photography: Sleek, modern frames work without competing with the image Mixed Media: Base your frame selection on the dominant medium and dimensional characteristics
Color coordination principles
Your frame's color should bridge your artwork with its surroundings. A frame that matches minor color elements in the painting works better than one matching the dominant color[5]. Avoid mid-range value frames with high-contrast artwork that has strong darks and pale lights - they might look disconnected from the piece [5].
Contemporary vs traditional framing approaches
Clean lines and minimal decoration characterize contemporary framing, often featuring pine-colored or monochrome frames[6]. Traditional frames showcase detailed work and darker or gilt finishes that suit classical pieces perfectly[6].
Modern artwork shines with these contemporary approaches:
Sleek metal frames create a minimalist look
Float mounting adds visual depth
Simple lines complement abstract or contemporary pieces
Classical subjects benefit from traditional framing with:
Ornate gold-leaf moldings enhance oil paintings[4]
Detailed woodwork adds historical context
Deeper profiles create visual weight
Note that classical artwork pairs naturally with traditional frames, but don't let conventions limit you. Current trends show designers boldly using contemporary frames to create striking contrasts with traditional pieces[7].
Professional Framing vs DIY Solutions
Your choice between professional framing and DIY solutions can affect both your artwork's preservation and your budget. Let's look at the best time to use each option and how to make an economical decision.
When to invest in professional framing
Professional framing costs 70% more than online options[8], but some situations make this investment worth it. Professional framing makes sense when you:
Have valuable or irreplaceable artwork
Need conservation-grade materials Want specialized UV protection or humidity control
Own artwork with unique dimensional characteristics
Professional framers protect your investment with years of experience and training. They help you choose materials and preservation methods you might not find through DIY options[9].
DIY framing tools and techniques
DIY framing saves money and feels rewarding since labor makes up most of the professional cost[10]. You'll need these tools to frame artwork yourself:
Measuring tools and level
Mat cutter (if using matting)
Glass cutting tools (if custom sizing needed)
Assembly hardware Acid-free mounting materials
Accurate measuring is vital for DIY framing success. Many framers give away free samples of frames and mat boards[10]. This helps you check colors and quality before your final choice.
Cost-saving tips without compromising quality
You can cut framing costs and still maintain quality through these smart approaches:
1. Buy in bulk with multiple pieces to frame[11]
2. Shop for frames during end-of-month sales[12]
3. Pick ready-made frames for standard-sized artwork
4. Use high-quality second-hand frames[11]
5. Choose painted frames instead of natural wood when suitable[11]
Note that DIY framing might save money now, but think about your artwork's value. Framing should cost around 10-15% of the artwork's retail value[2]. Professional framing can protect valuable pieces' worth as time passes[13].
Online framing services give you a middle-ground option if you have a tight budget. These services cost about 70% less than traditional framing shops[11]. They usually include design tools that show you the final result before you buy.
Preservation and Protection Considerations
Your artwork deserves more than just the right frame - it needs an environment that will keep it pristine for future generations. Let's look at everything you need to know about preserving your precious pieces.
UV protection and glass options
The glass you choose will affect your artwork's lifespan by a lot. Modern glass options give you different levels of UV protection: Conservation Clear Glass: Blocks 99% of UV rays while maintaining clarity[14]
Museum Glass: Provides 97% UV protection with anti-reflection features[15]
Conservation Clear Acrylic: Offers 99% UV protection with shatter-proof qualities[14]
Standard Glass: Most simple option with minimal UV protection[15]
Humidity and temperature control
The right environment is vital to preserve your framed artwork. Your artwork will thrive in temperatures between 18-24°C [16], with relative humidity between 40-
60% [16]. Too much or too little moisture can lead to serious problems:
1. High humidity (over 70%) encourages mold growth and warps the artwork[3]
2. Low humidity makes paper brittle and causes cracks[3]
3. Quick temperature changes can damage both frame and artwork[17]
Humidity control devices can help manage these conditions. Place your artwork away from heat sources, external walls, and direct sunlight[17]. Archival materials and methods
Long-term preservation needs archival-quality materials. Conservation framing uses acid-free materials and mounting techniques that can be reversed[18]. Here are the core components:
Mounting Materials: Acid-free boards and archival-grade adhesives prevent deterioration[19]. Manufacturers put these materials through extra processes to stop damage before it starts[19].
Barrier Protection: An aluminum foil or specialized material moisture barrier behind the backboard helps protect against wall dampness and environmental changes[20].
Frame Sealing: Acid-free tape should seal the entire framing package. This keeps dust out and creates a protective microclimate for your artwork[21]. The seal stops airborne pollutants from getting inside.
Note that proper preservation needs a comprehensive approach. UV-protective glass blocks 99% of harmful rays[14], but it works best when you combine it with proper environmental controls and archival materials.
Creating Visual Impact Through Framing
Framing does more than protect - it's an art form that changes your piece into a stunning visual masterpiece. A good frame acts as a visual bridge between your artwork and its surroundings. It guides the viewer's gaze and lifts the overall esthetic[22].
Using frames to boost artwork presentation
Your frame should complement your artwork instead of competing with it. Here are some strategies to make your art stand out: Pick frames that highlight the artwork's unique qualities Choose materials that blend with the piece
Add matting to create depth and focus
Look at frameless options for contemporary pieces
Align frame style with your artwork's period or theme
The right frame will boost your artwork's value and give it a more polished, professional look[23]. Your frame should make the piece better without overwhelming it. It needs to be a sophisticated addition to your artwork's natural beauty.
Balancing frame size with artwork dimensions
Size and proportion matter most. Landscape-oriented pieces need a frame width that's 1/2 to 1/3 the size of the picture[24]. Portrait-oriented artwork looks best with a frame width about 1/2 the picture's width[24].
Perfect balance comes from these key proportions:
1. Your artwork should cover about 2/3 the length of the furniture it hangs above[25]
2. Leave 8-12 inches between the frame's bottom and furniture[25]
3. Put your artwork's center at 57 inches from the floor - average eye level[26]
4. Keep 2-5 inches between frames when making a gallery wall[27]
Strategic placement and lighting considerations
Placement and illumination make a huge difference in your artwork's effect. Your piece should create visual balance in the room [28]. A precise grid creates a formal look. Grouping pictures within a set square or rectangle feels more casual[28].
Lighting makes a big difference in showing off your framed artwork. Picture lights work best when placed centrally above the piece. Make sure they don't stick out past the frame's edges[24]. Larger pieces might need multiple light sources for even lighting[29].
Glass-covered artwork needs special care to reduce glare. Lights should sit at angles that cut down reflection. A 30-degree angle to the artwork usually works best [30]. This setup lets viewers see your piece clearly without distracting glare or shadows.
Your frame choice and placement should work as a team. A well-picked frame in the right spot can make an ordinary piece into an eye-catching focal point. Poor placement can make even beautiful artwork lose its appeal[22].
Conclusion
Quality artwork framing is a vital investment that protects your pieces and maximizes their visual appeal. Your frame selection, materials, and preservation methods affect both your artwork's longevity and presentation. Making smart framing decisions means thinking about several key factors. You need the right materials, UV protection, and ideal environmental conditions. Valuable pieces deserve professional framing services. Standard artwork can work well with DIY solutions if you use quality materials and follow proper techniques.
Successful framing does more than just protect your art. The right frame creates harmony between artwork and its surroundings. Proper sizing, placement, and lighting principles work together to elevate your display from simple to extraordinary.
These framing guidelines help you make informed decisions that will improve your artwork's presentation. Your collection will stay preserved for years. Put these principles into practice, and your artwork collection will shine with a professional-level finish.
References
[1] - https://www.customframestore.com/picture-frame-materials-101/
[2] - https://reddotblog.com/mastering-the-art-of-framing/
[3] - https://www.fineartbydavenevue.com/blog/blog_posts/the-essential-guide-to-humidity-control-for-art-prints
[4] - https://www.artistsandillustrators.co.uk/how-to/how-to-master-frame-selection-for-your-painting/
[5] - https://www.catherineingleby.com/choosing-frame-colors/
[6] - https://www.gadsbys.co.uk/what-can-gadsbys-frame/framing-styles/
[7] - https://www.luxdeco.com/the-luxurist/how-to-master-art-framing
[8] - https://www.eframe.co.uk/blog/picture-frames-on-a-budget-best-tips-to-save-money-when-framing/?
srsltid=AfmBOopuEBJgvPRIkfjebUzKRXx5avDbaHQBoQO0QjxLZSChogI_84EN
[9] - https://www.artistsnetwork.com/art-business/custom-framing-what-a-framer-can-do-for-you/
[10] - https://www.americanframe.com/pictureframeblog/framing-art-yourself-pros-and-cons-of-diy-framing?srsltid=AfmBOop4j15SE08B5DUxN- Bor9mwI7rB9BVOYYbeGwVXB7PwvMnWudrZ
[11] - https://www.eframe.co.uk/blog/picture-frames-on-a-budget-best-tips-to-save-money-when-framing/?
srsltid=AfmBOopoUnFkoxjGOZAeaJeg8bjB7I_eXhr_REbqqXpgonyeyzGNClvO
[12] - https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/frugal-living-how-to-frame-your-art-on-the-cheap-apartment-therapy-tutorials-200853 [13] - https://cassensfineart.com/post/11012-the-benefits-of-professional-custom-framing-vs-diy
[14] - https://tru-vue.com/2021/09/6-types-of-picture-framing-glass-best-use-cases/
[15] - https://frameemporium.co.uk/glass-options-picture-framing/
[16] - https://www.bapcr.org.uk/advice/care-for-your-paintings/
[17] - https://www.lowy1907.com/how-to-protect-your-artworks-from-temperature-and-humidity-damage/
[18] - https://www.pureandapplied.co.uk/conservation-framing
[19] - https://www.americanframe.com/pictureframeblog/when-to-use-archival-framing-products?srsltid=AfmBOoqx1JKmdbaOhQAxrSMIxrJ8wYq4Qp0Y- BVhc0cXHZE16yp_lf4E
[20] - https://www.artworksconservation.co.uk/5-top-conservation-tips-for-protecting-framed-pictures/
[21] - https://www.framedestination.com/blog/resources/does-archival-framing-matter?
srsltid=AfmBOoolGe8JT86BY7nfTksUcz0MJReETMwR_E1Cde5YGPnHQgmeH82G
[22] - https://eclecticgallery.co.uk/news/27-the-art-of-framing-enhancing-and-protecting-your-preserving-artistic-legacy-the-intricacies-of-framing-and/ [23] - https://www.theartcoachingclub.com/post/the-importance-of-framing-your-art-elevating-presentation-and-preservation [24] - https://www.jim-lawrence.co.uk/guide-to-lighting-pictures
[25] - https://utrdecorating.com/blogs/news/how-to-choose-the-right-size-artwork-for-your-space?
srsltid=AfmBOopV3X3IJdoPTUXZoXrRtmKcUpWM8zznNBX0tQ8J9kSh4IMHUg03
[26] - https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/our-guide-to-hanging-art-like-a-professional
[27] - https://whataroom.com/blogs/home-garden/the-right-way-to-hang-wall-art?srsltid=AfmBOor0dyJ6_wM4dSWFu1RLgHS8rd_ADZDU9ZNzAXvB-Pu4EqU667XV [28] - https://www.marthastewart.com/268983/arranging-pictures
[29] - https://www.mullanlighting.com/uk/blog/picture-lights-your-complete-guide-to-illuminating-artwork/?
srsltid=AfmBOooJupIfBBWFkElio1smrt6ER9ZNqBM13k0Ug4SBhJeZL8V9tI0J
[30] - https://www.thelightbulb.co.uk/resources/properly-light-piece-artwork/?srsltid=AfmBOoqrLQKkZwoAG6rdaYcHFWcx6qJavr4tASglv9LIwIRUJz8Ua9C5
