Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about framing. I’ve even repainted some chunky black frames in a soft, chalky off-white, and I’m loving the way they look.
It got me thinking - not just about framing my own paintings - but about how choosing the right frame can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, the sheer number of options stops us from getting artwork up on the walls where it belongs.
Do you go for a grey mount with a black frame or a white mount with a grey frame? No mount at all? And that’s before we even get to the question of hammering picture hooks into the wall. Before we know it, we’ve put it off entirely, and our walls are still blank.
So, let’s break it down into some easy basics to help you make confident choices, so you can finally get those artworks up and enjoy them!
Framing 101: Keep It Simple & Stylish
The perfect frame should complement and enhance your artwork, never overwhelm or diminish it. There are only TWO key things to consider: the type of artwork and where it will hang.
1. Type of Artwork
For works on paper (drawings, prints, watercolors), a mount can add elegance and breathing space. A simple off-white mount works with almost anything. Since paper is delicate, these pieces need glass for protection (ideally UV-resistant glass) and an acid-free mount to prevent damage over time.
For works on canvas, you can skip the mount and glass entirely. A frame is optional, depending on the look you prefer. I love the modern, minimalist style of tray frames, which create a floating effect. But I also know someone who swears by ornate gold frames and that works too! The most important thing is choosing a frame that you love.
2. Where Will It Hang?
Before choosing a frame, consider where the artwork will be displayed. If you’re creating a gallery wall, it can make all the difference to plan for some consistency. This doesn’t mean every frame has to match perfectly, but a bit of uniformity, whether in colour, material, or style can make a collection feel cohesive.
(Framers and fellow artists might debate me on this, but I think a little pre-planning saves a lot of frustration later!)
Final Thoughts
Framing doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Keep it simple, choose what makes you happy, and most importantly: get your art up on the wall where you can enjoy it every day.
What’s your take on framing? Do you love a sleek, modern look, or do you prefer something more classic? Let me know!
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