With art prints or originals from Modern Magic, you’re going to want to frame them. Keeping them in a glass (no plastic) frame, out of direct sunlight and clear of any moisture will ensure that your piece lasts forever. With those key elements in place, it’s all about finding a frame that works in your space and fits you need (which you can learn more about here.) So where do you even begin with frames? Here are a few of my favorite options to choose from.
Framebridge Framing
Framebridge is an online platform that will send you a shipping tube/envelope to send back with your art print in it. From there you’ll select what frame style and size you want on their website. Based on the size will determine you pricing option and you have the option to make it a gift if you want to send someone the complete piece.
Framebridge Pricing
- EXTRA SMALL artwork up to 5″ x 7″$75
- SMALL artwork up to 9″ x 12″$100
- MEDIUM artwork up to 12″ x 18″$125
- LARGE artwork up to 18″ x 24″$175
- EXTRA LARGE artwork up to 24″ x 34″$225
- GRAND artwork up to 32″ x 40″$250
THIS PRICE INCLUDES
- Secure packaging for shipping your art
- The frame and mat
- Hanging hardware
- Free shipping, both ways
Framebridge is one of my favorite options because it’s professional framing for less and with the ease of shipping everything out your door.
Homeforia Gold Frame
Homeforia’s gold frames on Amazon have been my go-to for art shows. They look clean and classic, use real glass, and get here in a timely matter for an affordable price. The one issue is I have had quite a few come broken. With Amazon it’s easy enough to return and try again but that does become a bit of a hassle. So they’re worth it, but just know it could take a try or two to get it right.
They have a variety of sizes and if you choose you can just take a mat out of the frame if you won’t want the extra bulk of it or to make things look less cohesive on a gallery wall.
Homeforia Sizes
- 11×14 matted to 8×10 -$20.99
- 16×20 matted to 11×14 -$34.99
- 20×24 matted to 16×20- $54.99
- 24×30 matted to 18×24- $64.99
Michaels Frames
By far the cheapest option (and for good reason) is to get a frame from a hobby store like Michaels. For the most part these work fine. (Again glass will always give you a clearer look at your art and is a more sustainable option.) However, if you like to do my layered frame trick, these frames can be dangerous. The backs use little black metal bits that you bend back and forth every time you update the print. That’s fine if you put one in and never touch it, but with my layered frame trick that allows you to how more prints and switch them up when you feel like it, these metal pieces will begin to break off and leave you without a way to close up the back of the image. Some of their frame options don’t use these, so you’ll have to keep an eye out for what works.
Michaels also offers custom frame but this can get pricey and is why I prefer Framebridge.
Target Frames
Similar to Michaels frames but a little more expensive (relatively the same quality and the same issues of the backs not being super durable, I DO NOT recommend Michaels or Target frames for originals. You’ll need a custom frame to ensure that your art is safe for years to come!) However, if you want a great gallery wall combo already curated for you, I love this set. Or if you want a thick mat and a nice gold frame, this is a great selection. I used this cold frame for 2 art prints by one of my favorite artists and did a little custom painting on the mats to make them extra special. (Check out the video below). Also, sometimes you want to have a small print (or card) framed, and this table top frame is one of my faves. (World Market also has some really fun options of frames that feel a little unique. Definitely more expensive, but worth it!)
SMALL BUSINESS NOTE: I would love to make the note that if you can find unique frames from small businesses in your area, that will always give you the most unique look for your art. If you just need a basic wood or gold frame then I totally understand wanting to save a bit and keep the investment with the artist you’re buying from. Modern Magic loves to make things as unique as possible but also affordable so that everyone can have the experience of a curated, colorful home.
Framing Originals
When it comes to original artwork you should expect to pay as much for framing as you did on the piece (At least this is the case for any Modern Magic original pieces). This is because a high quality frame will better keep dust out, protect it from UV light (which will degrade the piece) and is sealed to ensure no other damage is done. Framebridge is a great affordable option for this, but they are limited in the styles they offer. For the best selection go to your local framer. You will pay more, but you will be happy you did.
Frame Your Art
No matter what frame you choose, you’ll want to choose one that goes with the style of your space, uses the highest quality glass, and closes tightly in the back to ensure no dust, light, or moisture can touch your artwork. This goes for both originals and prints, both should be handled with the utmost care to ensure they last a lifetime!
Find new prints to get framed
Shop Modern Magic and Update Your Space
