A beautiful canvas print deserves an amazing frame to show it off! Framing your artwork not only makes it look great but also helps protect it over time. While you can always get professional framing, doing it yourself can be fun and save money. Whether your print is on canvas, fine art paper, metal, or peel-and-stick wall art, these simple tips will help you create a gallery-worthy look right at home.
Choose the Right Frame Style and Material
The frame you choose should match both your artwork and the room where you want to hang it. Here are some great frame options:
- Classic Wood Frames: These are timeless and work well with traditional artwork and fine art prints on paper.
- Floating Frames: These are perfect for canvas prints because they leave a small gap around the edges, making your artwork look like it’s floating inside the frame.
- Metal Frames: If you want a sleek, modern look, metal frames are perfect for metal prints.
Pro Tip: Choose a neutral color for your frame so it doesn’t compete with the artwork. The frame should support your art, not take attention away from it.
Measure Carefully
To make sure your frame fits perfectly, you need to measure your artwork correctly. For stretched canvas, measure the height, width, and depth. If you’re framing fine art paper or peel-and-stick wall art, make sure to leave room for mats or backing materials.
Advice:
- Use a tape measure to get the exact measurements and double-check before cutting anything.
- Consider getting framing kits, which usually come with pre-cut materials and hardware that make DIY framing easier.
Prepare the Frame and Canvas
Once you’ve got the right frame and measurements, it’s time to put everything together!
- Sand and Finish Wood Frames: Sand the edges of wood frames to make them smooth. You can also paint or stain the wood for a polished look.
- Attach Hanging Hardware: Install D-rings, wire, or sawtooth hangers to the back of the frame so it’s ready to hang.
- Align the Canvas: Place your canvas face down on a clean surface. Carefully position the frame around it, making sure everything is lined up evenly.
Tip: Use small brackets or clips to hold the canvas in place without damaging it.
Consider Matting and Backing
If you’re framing fine art paper, adding a mat can give it a nice, finished look. A backing board helps protect your artwork from dust and moisture. Canvas and metal prints usually don’t need mats, but they are great for paper prints.
Remember:
- Use archival-quality mats and backing to make sure your artwork lasts a long time.
- Make sure the mat is the right thickness for your artwork—too thick or too thin can throw off the look.
Contact Us
Our address is: 3816 Pioneer Trail Ste #3, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Email: Info@gicleefineprints.com
FAQs
You don’t need many tools! A tape measure, saw (for cutting wood), screwdriver, and a level are usually enough. Framing kits can make things easier too.
Yes, you can! Floating frames and certain designs are made to hold the stretched canvas as it is, so you don’t have to take it off the bars.
No problem! Many framing shops can make custom frames. Just measure your canvas carefully and give them the exact size.
