Choosing the Right Frame: A Guide to Enhancing Your Art
Framing is more than just presentation—it’s protection, personality, and polish all in one. Whether you’re showcasing a family portrait, a striking landscape, or a treasured print, the right frame can elevate your piece to a whole new level. Here’s how to get it right.
- Match Frame Style to Your Artwork Your artwork sets the tone. A classic oil painting deserves a rich, ornate wooden frame, while a minimalist print works best with a sleek, simple design. Consider the era, tone, and energy of your art before choosing a frame style. For instance, vintage-style posters pair well with distressed wood or gold leaf frames, while modern geometric prints shine in matte black or white.
- Choosing the Right Material Wood brings warmth and tradition. Aluminium adds a modern touch. Glassless options offer a clean, contemporary feel. Think about durability too—some materials are better suited to humidity or sunlit areas. Wood frames are timeless but can be sensitive to moisture. Metal is lightweight and sleek but may not suit all decors.
- Work With Colour Theory Your frame should complement, not compete. Use contrasting or neutral tones to help the artwork stand out. Match metallics or stains to existing room decor for harmony. A good rule of thumb: cool-toned art (blues, greys, purples) works well with silver, black, or grey frames. Warm-toned art (reds, yellows, oranges) pairs beautifully with gold, bronze, or rich wood finishes.
- Don’t Skip the Mount (Matboard) A matboard creates space between the image and the glass, giving the piece breathing room and protecting it from damage. It also helps draw the eye to the focal point. Double matting or colour-accent mats can add dimension and sophistication.
- Ready-Made vs. Custom Framing Ready-made frames are budget-friendly and convenient. Custom frames, however, offer perfect sizing, material choice, and the ability to highlight unique pieces. If your artwork has sentimental or financial value, custom framing is the safest and most visually impactful option.
- Consider the Display Environment Is the frame going in a humid bathroom, sunlit hallway, or temperature-controlled gallery? UV-protective glass and moisture-resistant backings may be needed. Think about wall colour, nearby furniture, and lighting when choosing frame finishes.
Final Thought: A great frame is an extension of your art. If you’re unsure, our team at Lazer Art & Frame is happy to guide you. Explore our frame collection or get a custom quote.