Framing isn’t just about complementing a piece of art; it’s also about enhancing it, preserving it, and blending it into your decor. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or new to framing, here are some essential tips for finding the perfect frame and keeping your artwork looking its best
The material on which an artwork is created can influence framing choices significantly. Here’s what to keep in mind for each type:
• Paper Artwork: Paper is delicate and highly susceptible to environmental factors like light, humidity, and touch. To protect it, use high-quality, acid-free mats and backing materials, which prevent yellowing and deterioration. Art glass is also recommended for paper-based art, providing added UV protection. Mounts can be an excellent choice for paper, creating a modern, elegant display while keeping the artwork protected under glass.
This piece is framed in art glass, which is non-reflective, so you can appreciate the art fully, rather than seeing the reflection of the room or your face
• Canvas Artwork: Unlike paper, canvas art can be displayed without glass. Canvases can be framed or left unframed, especially if they’re stretched and have painted edges. For a more polished look, consider using a “floater frame,” which creates a subtle space between the frame and the canvas, adding depth without a traditional border. This style is popular for both modern and abstract pieces, as it draws attention to the texture and depth of the canvas.
This artwork is framed with an accentuated gap to give a more contemporary feel to the piece.
• Wood Artwork: Art on wood, such as panels or wood block prints, benefits from a sturdy frame but generally doesn’t require glass, as wood surfaces are more resilient than paper. A simple or floater frame can work well, especially for contemporary or rustic styles. If you do choose glass, ensure there’s adequate space (using spacers) between the glass and the wood surface to prevent condensation buildup, which can lead to warping or mildew over time.
Choosing the Right Glass: Standard Glass vs. Art Glass
The type of glass you use can significantly impact how well your artwork is protected and displayed. Here are the options to consider:
• Standard Glass: Common and affordable, standard glass works well but offers limited UV protection. This may be suitable for inexpensive or temporary art pieces, but it’s important to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
• Art Glass: Specifically designed for artworks, art glass reduces glare and blocks harmful UV rays, which helps prevent fading over time. The clarity and light protection offered by art glass make it a worthwhile investment for pieces that hold significant value.
Mounting Matters: Adding Depth and Dimension
Mounting adds depth and draws attention to your artwork, creating a subtle border around the piece. Common mounting options include:
• Standard Mount: A classic mount creates a clean border between the artwork and the frame, giving it more focus.
• Floating Mount: Ideal for contemporary pieces, a floating mount suspends the artwork within the frame, creating a shadowed outline around it. I often use this technique for my work as it creates a modern, elevated effect that feels unique and professional.
Repurposing Frames: Giving Old Frames New Life
If you have an existing frame you love, consider repurposing it! Whether it’s a vintage find or an heirloom piece, a frame can be sanded, painted, or resized to suit a new artwork. This approach not only saves money but also gives your art a personalised touch.
Store-Bought vs. Bespoke Frames: A Matter of Quality
• Store-Bought Frames: Affordable and accessible, store-bought frames are great for quick decor updates but often come with limitations, such as basic glass and low-quality hanging fixtures. These frames might work for less valuable pieces, but consider replacing the hanging fixtures with more secure options if you’re displaying a larger or more fragile work.
• Bespoke Frames: Custom frames crafted by a professional framer are specifically tailored to your artwork. A skilled framer can offer invaluable guidance on choosing the best materials, colours, and mounts to bring out the artwork’s full potential. This is often the best choice for preserving and enhancing treasured pieces.
Choosing Hanging Fixtures: Secure Your Artwork Safely
The type of hanging fixture you need depends on the size, weight, and type of artwork. Here’s a quick guide:
• D-Rings: These sturdy metal loops are suitable for larger, heavier pieces and work well with various wall anchors.
• Sawtooth Hangers: Best for smaller, lightweight frames. However, they might not be the best choice for thicker frames or canvases
• Wire Hangers: Ideal for medium to large pieces, a wire hanger evenly distributes weight and makes it easier to level the artwork on the wall.
Store-bought frames often come with less reliable hanging fixtures, so consider replacing them with high-quality options, especially for heavier artwork.
Preventing Bugs
Artwork displayed under glass can sometimes attract tiny black bugs, often referred to as “storm bugs” or thrips, These bugs are attracted to certain conditions around the artwork, and understanding these factors can help prevent them:
To minimise this, consider these tips:
1. Humidity and Warmth: Thrips and other small insects are drawn to warm, humid environments. Frames that are not fully sealed can allow moisture to enter, creating a more inviting space for these pests. High humidity can also soften certain materials in the frame, like organic mats or paper, which can attract bugs.
2. Light Reflection and Colour: Bugs are sometimes attracted to the reflective surface of glass, mistaking it for light sources like the sky. Artwork with bright or light colours might also draw them in, as these colours can resemble outdoor plants and flowers where these insects normally live.
3. Organic Materials: Certain frame or mount materials, like untreated wood or non-acid-free paper, can be attractive to bugs as they break down over time. Using high-quality, acid-free materials for mats and backing can reduce this risk.
4. Gaps in the Frame: Poorly sealed frames can leave tiny gaps, especially around the glass edge. These gaps allow bugs to crawl inside and become trapped, so sealing the frame as tightly as possible with tape or a sealant can help.
To prevent these issues, keep your artwork in a space with stable humidity and temperature, choose acid-free materials for mounting, and ensure that frames are sealed tightly. These steps can help keep your framed artwork free from pests and looking its best for years. ( Ask your framer to use materials that prevent small bugs from entering.)
Protecting Your Art from Discolouration and Damage
Light and environmental exposure can damage artwork over time, especially pieces done in watercolours, pastels, or ink. Here’s how to help preserve your art:
• Control Humidity and Light Exposure: Excessive sunlight and humidity can lead to discolouration and even attract pests. Avoid hanging your artwork in direct sunlight and aim to keep humidity levels in check
• UV-Blocking Glass: As mentioned, art glass helps reduce UV exposure, which is a major cause of fading.
• Placement: Choose locations that don’t receive direct sunlight, and avoid hanging artwork above heat sources or in damp areas like bathrooms.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right frame isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about elevating, protecting, and seamlessly integrating art into your space. When in doubt, consulting a professional framer can make all the difference, providing both practical and design insights to ensure your art is well cared for and beautifully displayed.
Framing is an investment in your art’s longevity, so make choices that not only suit your decor but also preserve the artwork’s integrity for years to come!