When it comes to showcasing your art, choosing the right frame is key. But with so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, how do you choose the right frame? Fear not—I’m here to help guide you through the process and make sure your art shines in its best light.
Frame Materials
Let’s start with materials. Wood, metal, and plastic frames each have their own unique charm and price points. Wood frames offer a classic, timeless look and come in a variety of finishes to complement any style. Metal frames are sleek and modern, perfect for contemporary artwork. Plastic frames are budget-friendly and come in a range of colors and styles, but may lack the durability of wood or metal.
The higher quality the material, the more expensive it gets. But don’t let price intimidate you. Once you frame your piece you almost never reframe it again so prorate the cost with the life expectancy of the piece. Also remember, that even if you didn’t spend a lot on the art itself (because it’s a print or a new to the scene artist) doesn’t mean you can’t spend more on the framing. Both will add to the aesthetic of your space so make sure you love the finished product, no matter the final cost.
Glass or Vinyl?
Now, onto glass. Vinyl and glass are the two main options, each with their own pros and cons. Vinyl is lightweight and doesn’t break, making it a safer choice for high-traffic areas or households with children or pets. You can also find high quality scratch resistant vinyl which will keep your art looking it’s best for longer. However, Vinyl is plastic and if you know anything about me, I love to avoid plastic at all costs due to it’s environmental factors. On top of that, you won’t get the kind of clarity that glass brings, especially a high quality framers grade glass from your local framer.
Glass, on the other hand, offers better clarity and UV protection, ensuring your art stays looking its best for years to come. UV protection is extremely important! If your artwork gets any natural light hitting it, it will fade over time. If you’ve invested a lot in a piece I highly suggest placing it somewhere where it won’t see direct sunlight and instead put a canned light above it to make it shine. Glass is not only more environmentally friendly but you can get different levels of quality of it changing the cost. A framers grade glass will be super clear and maybe even have a magnifying effect and the price tag will reflect its quality. Again, if you’ve already invested a lot into this piece, I would go the extra mile for the best frame possible to ensure you see every gorgeous detail of the painting you love.
Do You Need A Mat?
To mat or not to mat? That is the question. Mats can add depth and dimension to your artwork, drawing the eye in and highlighting key details. I pretty much have a mat on every painting in my home. I like that it gives the piece a bit of breathing room and also highlights the piece more. Buying pre-made mats will save you cost but they are limited in their color options and thicknesses (usually 2-4 inches thick all the way around) and they only come in the commercial frame sizes, so if you have a unique sized piece of art you’ll have to get something custom cut.
Premade commercial size frames from places like Target or Michaels often already have mats in them and won’t cost you extra. If you want to make your art feel different you might decide to paint the mat inside (I did this with a piece we bought in France and added blue and white stripes to the mat, and it really changed the feel of the whole room!) or purchase a separate mat in a color that matches your painting or space.
Don’t Forget the Back of Your Frame
Now, let’s talk backing enclosures. From metal folds to swinging hooks to professionally sealed backing, there are a variety of options to choose from. Metal folds are budget-friendly but can break easily when adjusted multiple times. In my secret way of adding more art to your home, I switch out art often to make a space feel fresh and to rotate some of my favorite pieces. In this case the metal folds on the back of a frame are not the frame of choice. After 2-3 times of switching out art, they’ll start to break. Opt for a swinging hook for this trick. Swinging hooks, however, offer convenience and ease of use but may not provide the most secure hold.
If you want to make sure your art is fully protected and don’t plan on switching things out, professionally sealed backing ensures your art stays protected and secure. They can reach a higher price point and at the same time will ensure that your art is safe and sound.
How to Choose the Right Frame
When it comes to choosing the right frame, consider the style and mood of your artwork. A sleek, modern frame may complement a minimalist piece, while a ornate, antique frame may enhance the beauty of a classical painting. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles for a unique, eclectic look.
Another tip to consider is the size of your frame relative to your art. A frame that’s too small can make your artwork feel cramped and claustrophobic, while a frame that’s too large can overwhelm the piece and distract from its beauty. Take measurements and experiment with different sizes to find the perfect fit. The same is true for the size of mat you use.
Finally, don’t forget to consider the overall aesthetic of the room where your art will be displayed. Choose a frame that complements the colors, textures, and style of the space to create a cohesive, harmonious look.
How to choose the right frame for your art is an important decision that can greatly impact its overall appearance. Consider factors such as materials, glass options, matting, backing enclosures, and style to ensure your artwork shines in its best light. With a little thought and consideration, you can create a beautiful, cohesive look that enhances the beauty of your art and your home.
