Framing 101: How to Display Your New Artwork Like a Pro

Your new art piece just arrived—now what? Whether it's a paper print or canvas, the right frame can elevate your space and ensure your artwork becomes the focal point of any room. In this guide, I'll walk you through framing options that suit both prints and canvases, offering styling tips to complement your decor.

1. Paper Prints: Clean, Crisp, and Timeless

Why Frame Paper Prints? Paper prints benefit greatly from framing. Not only does it protect the print, but the right frame also enhances the visual impact, drawing the eye directly to the art. 

Matting:
When selecting a frame with a *mat, the frame size typically reflects the dimensions of the artwork itself, while the mat adds a 1 to 2-inch border, creating a smaller window that elegantly showcases the piece. Traditionally, mats are white or black and easier to match with a frame. However, you can use a color that appears prominently in the art piece for a boho or post-modern twist. 

Definition: a mat is a border that surrounds artwork. It is usually made from matboard, a type of board manufactured especially for this purpose. The matboard is cut to size, then one or more holes (openings) are cut in the matboard to serve as windows for displaying art.

Framing Styles:

• Modern and Minimalist: Thin black or white frames let the art speak for itself. Perfect for contemporary spaces.

 

• Rustic and Warm: Opt for natural wood tones that provide a soft, earthy touch.

•  Bold Statement: Choose metallic or gold-leaf frames for a luxurious, gallery-like feel.

2. Canvas Prints: Dimensional and Ready to Hang

Why Canvas Prints Are Different: Canvas prints bring depth and texture to your walls without needing traditional framing. However, framing a canvas can add polish and structure, especially for larger pieces.

Framing Styles for Canvas:

• Floater Frames: These are the go-to for canvas art. They provide a sleek "floating" effect around the canvas, making the art appear suspended.

•  Traditional Frames: A deep-set frame works beautifully to add dimension.

Framing Options for Canvas Prints:

• 12" x 16" Canvas – Floater Frame Option (12x16)

• 16" x 20" Canvas – Floater Frame Option (16x20) - Gold

3. Display Tips for Every Room

•  Gallery Wall: Mix and match framed prints with unframed canvases for a dynamic gallery wall.

• Leaning Art: Large canvases can be leaned against walls or furniture for a casual, modern look.

• Lighting Matters: Consider adding picture lights above framed art to enhance the texture and vibrance of each piece.