How to Choose the Right Frame for Your Artwork (Without Losing Your Marbles)
Framing is more than just a way to protect a painting—it’s the secret sauce that can either make your artwork sing or leave it whimpering in the corner like a forgotten sock. But no pressure! Choosing the right frame is simpler than it seems, and with a little thought, you’ll have your art looking fabulous in no time. So, grab a cup of tea (or whatever helps you stay calm), and let’s break this down into bite-sized pieces.
Picking the Right Frame
We might as well start with the basics.
1. Will It Even Be Framed? (Decisions, Decisions)
Before we dive into frame colors, materials, and matting for the right frame, let’s tackle the first big question: will your artwork even need a frame? Some pieces look stunning without one, and if that’s the case, you can skip the rest of this article and call it a day. (Just kidding—stick with me, it’ll be fun!)
- Flat Canvas Panels: If you’re planning to frame the artwork yourself, or if I’m shipping it to you and you want to frame it later, I’ll likely paint on a flat canvas panel. These are easy to frame, easy to mail, and slip into ready-made frames like a dream. You’ll have endless frame options at your fingertips.
- Deep Stretched Canvas: Some collectors love the bold look of a deep stretched canvas, typically 1.5 to 2 inches deep, with the painting extending around the sides. No frame needed! This is perfect for anyone who wants a ready-to-hang piece without the added expense of framing.
- Standard Stretched Canvas: These are your classic stretched canvases, about 1/2 inch deep. If you’re opting for a frame, keep in mind that not all off-the-shelf frames will accommodate these. It may require a custom frame—or you can hang it as-is, which is why I usually paint around the edges to give you flexibility.
Now that you’ve decided whether you need a frame, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making that frame look fabulous.
This painting doesn’t need framing if you don’t wanna. It’s called The Naked Pianist. It was painted live, but the pianist wasn’t really nekkies. Click it for more deets.
2. Consider the Style of the Artwork (Yep, Really Think About It)
The first step in putting the right frame on your masterpiece is to stop and actually think about the style of the painting. I know, groundbreaking stuff! Is it modern, traditional, or somewhere in that quirky middle ground where it likes to defy labels?
- For Traditional Art: Think of those rich, gilded frames you see in fancy old museums where the portraits are giving you side-eye from centuries ago. They’re perfect for classic art like landscapes, still lifes, or portraits. A mahogany or walnut frame says, “Yes, I’m cultured, but I also know my way around a cheese board.”
- For Contemporary Art: If you’ve got something bold, abstract, or modern, you don’t want a frame that’s going to scream louder than the art itself. Keep it simple—sleek black, white, or even a floating frame that says, “I’m edgy, but I don’t need to shout about it.” But, now that you mention it, sometimes an ornate frame can be just the kind of quirky juxtaposition a modern piece needs. Experiment! Sometimes the right frame is unexpected.
- For Eclectic Art: Can’t fit your art into a neat little box? Great! A vintage painting in a modern frame or a bright abstract piece in an ornate gold frame can create the perfect “What? I did this on purpose” vibe. And if anyone asks, just say it’s post-postmodern.
3. Think About the Space (Because You’re Going to Be Staring at This a Lot)
Where will the artwork live? Your space will influence the frame, because you don’t want a clash that makes you wince every time you walk by. After all, this art is joining your home family—so let’s avoid any sibling rivalry between your sofa and the frame.
- Matching Frames to Furniture: If you’ve got sleek, modern furniture, don’t ruin the flow with a frame that looks like it came from your grandma’s attic. Match modern with modern, traditional with traditional—unless, of course, you like to shake things up. In that case, carry on, rebel.
- Wall Color: Do you want your frame to blend in like a wallflower at a party or stand out like it’s wearing neon? If you want the art to pop, go for contrast. If you’re feeling more Zen, a frame that blends with your wall color will keep things calm and collected.
4. Frame Color: Drama or No Drama?
Let’s talk color. The frame should complement the art, not upstage it like an overenthusiastic wedding guest in a bright red dress.
- Neutral Frames: Black, white, or natural wood—classic choices that go with just about anything. Black adds a bit of drama, white keeps it crisp, and natural wood whispers, “I’m timeless, but down to earth.”
- Metallic Frames: Gold, silver, or bronze—perfect for when your art needs a little bling. Gold says, “I’ve got warmth and elegance,” while silver or bronze brings a cooler, more contemporary edge. It’s like jewelry for your art—but don’t go overboard, unless that’s your thing.
- Bold Frames: Want to take a risk? A bold, colorful frame can make your art leap off the wall—just make sure it doesn’t leap into a color conflict. Bold frames are fun, but only if they’re playing nice with the artwork and the rest of the room.
5. Frame Material: Wood, Metal, or Something Fancy?
Now, let’s get into materials. You’ve got options, and each one brings a different vibe to the art party.
- Wood: This is like the trusty sidekick of frames—classic, versatile, and reliable. Wood frames bring warmth, and you can stain or paint them to match your mood. Plus, they look good in both modern and traditional settings. Wood says, “I’m fancy, but not too fancy.” Or it could say, “I’m ordinary.” Or it could say, “LOOK AT ME, DAMN IT!”
- Metal: If you want to keep things sleek and shiny, metal’s your go-to. Perfect for minimalist or abstract art. It’s like the cool cousin who always knows the latest trends and never tries too hard.
- Acrylic or Composite: Modern, lightweight, and easy on the budget, these frames are like the multitaskers of the framing world. They keep things crisp and minimalist, letting the art do the talking while they handle the logistics.
6. To Mat or Not to Mat? That Is the Question
Ah, the mat—art’s trusty sidekick. Matting can add depth and space around your art, but it can also make you look like you know what you’re doing, which is always a bonus. Mats are commonly used with watercolors and prints, and other kinds of flat works.
- Single or Double Matting: A single mat keeps it simple, while a double mat adds a bit more dimension. It’s like wearing one scarf or two—both work, it just depends on how fancy you’re feeling.
- Mat Color: White and cream are classics, but sometimes you need to shake things up. Go bold if you’re feeling daring, but remember the golden rule: the mat should never outshine the art.
7. No Glass for Oil Paintings, Please
Glass or no glass? Usually, glass is great for protecting art, but not for oil paintings. Oil paintings like to breathe, and putting them behind glass is like trying to nap in a stuffy room—no thank you. Stick with open frames or floater frames to let those oils do their thing. You should put glass over watercolors, pastels, prints, and other stuff. Talk to the art seller for advice!
Conclusion:
Choosing the right frame is like picking the perfect accessory for your outfit. You want it to complement, not compete, and bring out the best in your art. With a bit of thought (and a dash of humor), you’ll find the perfect frame that makes your artwork—and your space—shine. Just remember, it’s art. Have fun with it!
Other resources:
How to Choose the Right Frame for Art