Stress-Free Guide to Framing Your Art

Hello art enthusiasts! 🌸✨

I get it – framing can be intimidating. But fear not! This guide is going to cover all of the basics so you can confidently frame your art.

While custom framing is the way to go for art presentation if your budget allows, I'm here to share the magic of DIY framing that's easy, budget-friendly, and oh-so-creative.

1. Framing Canvas Wonders:

For those chunky canvas beauties, consider a floating frame. It gives your artwork a contemporary vibe, allowing the edges to peek through just a tad. Experiment with metallic finishes for an extra touch of glamour or stick to classic black, white, or wood for timeless elegance.

Recommended 1 1/2" Depth Floating Frames On A Budget:

• Ampersand Wood Panel Floater Frames - wood, no metallics, available in white, black, wood finishes
• Pixy Canvas Floater Frame on Amazon - plastic, lots of colors to choose from, plus prime shipping available

2. Canvas Board Frames:

Canvas boards are like a blank canvas for framing possibilities and are often pretty standard sized, so they're easy to find a frame for. This is one of the reasons I really love to create on them! Embrace simplicity with a thin, minimal frame for a sleek look, or go bold with a chunky frame that adds a touch of drama to your piece. Remember, contrast is key!

As long as your canvas board is a standard size, these are quite easy to pop into many store bought frames. Think Homegoods and the like! Just remove the glass and you can typically pop them right in. So easy!

Recommended Frames:

• Chunky, Plein Aire Style Frame - Jerry's Artarama
• Hobby Lobby Frames - They offer several open back frames:
• Ornate Gold Frame
• Ornate White Frame

If you don't find a ready made frame you love, you'll need a framer's help to fix your board into a plein aire style framing option like the one from Jerry's above. Hobby Lobby and Michaels both offer this service for a nominal fee. (anywhere from $5+ depending on the size) Please also keep in mind that many of those frames recommended in the next section can work beautifully for work on canvas panel with the glass removed.

If you're interested in closing in your plein aire frames yourself, *this tool* has worked well for me.

3. Framing Your Paper Artwork:

Art on paper is quite possibly the most fun to frame and offers the most options. If your new baby is painted on paper, opt for matting and a simple glass frame. Mats not only elevate your art but also protect it by keeping it away from the glass. If you are framing a print, a floating frame can be a great choice too! I personally really love the look of a floating frame! Choose a frame that complements your style – rustic wood for warmth or a sleek metal finish for a modern twist.

Recommended Frames:

• Clean, Modern White Frame - 16x20 and includes a double mat for an 11x14, though not my *favorite* matting option it certainly does the job. These are often out of stock on Amazon but Michaels carries the exact same frame under their brand, Studio Decor
• Studio Decor White Modern Frames - this is their version..
• Deep Gold Frame with Mat - various sizes, double mat, displays pretty well but I strongly suggest shopping Michaels frames in person since you have the option!
• Bright Champagne Gold Frame - various sizes
• White & Silver Frame - various sizes
• Walnut & Gold Frame - various sizes
• Pottery Barn "Wood Gallery Frames" are great too. These usually come with an 8x10 mat and a 5x7 both, so would work for small piece on paper.

These are some of my favorites I've found so far and I will definitely update this list as I find more!

Custom Matting

As mentioned above, when it comes to art on paper your options really open up for framing. That's where a gorgeous mat comes in! These border your artwork and are available in a variety of colors and options. I am not at all affiliated with this shop but they have been absolutely amazing so I'll recommend them.

Matboard Shop - A New Mexico based company on Etsy

You can order completely custom sized mats of all kinds through them. They offer both standard single mats, and the double mats where you get a 2nd layer of matting for an extra little pop of color or contrast if you choose. So fun!

If you're an artist, consider their complete sample binder which will provide you with real sample pieces of every color and texture they offer. So helpful!!

Why Custom Framing?

While we're evaluating framing, we have to at least touch on custom framing. If your budget allows, custom frames can create impeccable art presentations. They are tailored to your artwork's size, style, and your home decor, ensuring a perfect match. You get to work side by side with a professional framer who can guide you, and touch and feel all the pretties. The result? A masterpiece within a masterpiece.

If you're investing in original art, especially a large piece, it definitely makes sense to at least consider professional framing!

In a Nutshell...

Framing shouldn't be daunting. It's a creative extension of your artwork. Embrace the process, and let your art shine! Whether you choose the simplicity of a floating frame, the boldness of a chunky one, or the classic elegance of matting, remember – it's your masterpiece, and the frame is the finishing touch.

Happy framing, fellow art enthusiasts! 🎨💖

Thanks for being here,

Bonnie

PS. Most links are affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small kick back if you choose to make a purchase. Please know that I am only recommending products that I have purchased myself and would consider purchasing again and am not being paid to promote these items besides potential affiliate link earnings.