Framing your artwork doesn’t have to be intimidating. While there are no strict rules, following some general guidelines can help you display your piece beautifully while ensuring it’s protected for years to come.
When framing, always ask yourself: Does this complement the painting? Your goal is to create a harmonious presentation where the mat, frame, and artwork come together as one cohesive piece. Let’s dive into five essential steps to make framing your artwork a success.
1. Go to a Professional Framing Shop
Investing in professional framing ensures your artwork is handled with care and assembled with quality materials. A framer can help balance the proportions between the frame and the painting, giving your piece the polished look it deserves.
2. Choose Acid-Free Materials
To preserve your artwork, always request acid-free and archival-grade materials. These protect the piece from yellowing, fading, or deteriorating over time. Acid-free mats and backing boards are especially important for maintaining the artwork’s integrity.
3. Select the Right Mat
A mat creates a visual border around your painting and keeps it from sticking to the glass.
Why Matting Matters:
• Enhances the painting’s appearance.
• Prevents the artwork from touching the glass.
Tips for Choosing a Mat:
• Always choose acid-free mats.
• White and neutral tones work best, as they complement most pieces.
• If adding a colored mat, pick a shade that complements the dominant colors in the painting.
4. Pick the Perfect Frame
The right frame should enhance, not overpower, your artwork.
Frame Selection Tips:
• Avoid frames that are overly ornate, brightly colored, or too small.
• Match the frame’s style and tone to the painting.
• Don’t stress about matching the frame to other frames in your home—focus on what suits the artwork.
Budget Tip: Buy a pre-made standard-sized frame and have a custom mat cut by a professional to fit your artwork.
When in doubt, keep it simple.
5. Add the Final Touch: Glazing
Watercolors, prints, and drawings need glazing (glass or Plexiglas) for protection. Each has pros and cons:
• Plexiglas: Lightweight, shatter-resistant, and ideal for earthquake-prone areas. However, it scratches easily, can’t be cleaned with glass cleaner, and is pricier.
• Glass: Heavier and more affordable, but it offers a classic look and is easy to clean. It’s also preferred for graphite, pastel, or charcoal works, since it doesn’t create static that can disturb the medium.
Additional Options:
Both glass and Plexiglas are available with UV filters to protect against fading and in non-glare finishes to reduce reflections.
Preserve Your Art for Years to Come
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your artwork is beautifully displayed and well-protected for years to come. Framing is an extension of the painting itself, and when done right, it enhances the piece’s impact and longevity.
Know someone who needs framing advice? Share these tips with them!
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