The Art Of Picture Framing

Are you an art collector or artist looking to showcase your work? Then, picture framing is what you need to explore.

It is more than just putting a frame around a picture – it’s an art form that includes a careful selection of materials, techniques, and designs to enhance and protect your artwork.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to picture framing, the different types of frames available, and the techniques professional framers use to create stunning wall displays. So, if you want to know more about how picture framing can elevate your home or gallery, read on!

The Importance Of Proper Picture Framing

Proper picture framing is essential in enhancing the appearance of any artwork, photo, or poster. And points like the angle of the mat and the finish of the frame can make a significant difference in the overall presentation of your work.

Proper picture framing isn’t just about making your art look good but also about preservation. Quality picture framing can protect your artwork from fading, moisture, and other environmental factors that can damage it over time.

So, whether you’re looking for gallery framing or affordable framing – with proper framing and hanging systems, your artwork will look its best and endure the test of time. Don’t let your art go unnoticed – invest in proper picture framing today.

Choosing The Right Frame

Choosing the right frame for your artwork or photographs is a crucial element in the art of picture framing. There are three main components to consider – the frame, the mat, and the glass.

To get the perfect frame for your piece, firstly, consider the style of the artwork and choose a frame that complements it. Next, take into account the colour scheme of the piece and the surrounding decor. A neutral frame can work with most styles and colours, while a bold or ornate frame is suitable for more traditional or dramatic pieces.

You should then consider the artwork’s size and proportion of the artwork and choose a frame that balances and highlights it appropriately.

As far as the matting of the frame is concerned, a bevel-cut mat can add a professional finish and create depth between the artwork and the frame. Additionally, glass can protect your artwork from harmful UV rays, dust, and moisture for glazing, making it an essential element of picture framing.

Matting And Mounting Techniques

The matting and mounting of your frame not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your artwork but also provide protection and longevity. Here are some efficient tips to help you master the art of matting and mounting for your picture-framing needs:

1. Colour And Texture

Choose the right colour and texture for your mat board. A well-selected mat board can make your art pop and draw your viewer’s eye. Experiment with different colours and textures to find the perfect match for your artwork.

2. Acid-Free Mat Boards

Use acid-free mat boards and backing to protect your artwork from fading and discolouration over time. Acid-free boards are essential to ensure that your artwork remains in pristine condition for years to come.

3. Securing The Artwork

Use hinging tape or photo corners to secure your artwork to the mat board. Avoid using regular tape, as it can damage your artwork and cause discolouration over time.

4. Using Spacers

Use spacers to create depth between your art or picture and the glass. This technique adds dimension to your piece and prevents it from sticking to the glass.

5. Float Mounting Technique

Consider float mounting for unique and unconventional framing styles. Float mounting involves suspending your artwork within the frame, creating a floating effect that adds depth and intrigue to your artwork.

6. Shadow Box Framing

Use a shadow box frame for three-dimensional art or objects. They are perfect for showcasing items, such as medals, jerseys, or souvenirs, creating a stunning visual display.

7. Experiment

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different matting and mounting techniques to create a personalised and unique look. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity soar!

Glass And Glazing Options

Glass is not just a transparent material that protects your artwork from dust and damage. It can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your framed piece, adding depth, dimension, and texture.

Many options are available, each with unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular options:

1. Regular Glass

This is the most basic and affordable option. It is a clear, thin, lightweight glass suitable for framing non-valuable or replaceable art.

2. UV-Protected Glass

UV-protected glasses are designed to protect your photos from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause fading and discolouration. It is an excellent choice for framing valuable art or items displayed in direct sunlight.

3. Anti-Reflective Glass

It has a special coating that reduces glares and reflections, making it ideal for framing art displayed in bright areas or under artificial lighting.

4. Museum Glass

This premium option provides the highest level of protection against UV rays and reflections. It’s also anti-static, which means it repels dust and dirt, keeping your art piece clean and clear.

5. Acrylic

It is a lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative to glass – an excellent choice for framing large or heavy art requiring sturdy glazing.

6. Non-Glare Acrylic

This type of acrylic has a matte finish that reduces reflections and glare. It is a good option for custom picture framing displayed in areas of bright lighting.

7. Conservation Clear Glass

This option blocks up to 99% of UV rays, making it the perfect choice for framing valuable or irreplaceable art pieces. It also has a clear, distortion-free finish that does not alter the colour or texture of your art.

Custom Framing Vs. Ready-Made Frames

Custom picture framing or ready-made frames? While both options have their own pros and cons, custom picture framing offers a unique and personalised touch that ready-made frames simply cannot compete with. Here is a comparison between the two:

1. Design

Custom framing lets you choose from a wider range of frames, matting, and glass options. You can personalise your frame design to match your picture’s style. Ready-made frames come in a limited section of standard sizes and designs, so you may need to compromise on your style to fit your picture.

2. Quality

Custom picture frames are usually made using high-quality materials. You can choose from acid-free mats, UV-protective glass, and conservation-grade mounting options, ensuring your picture will be protected for years.

Ready-made frames are often made of cheaper materials, such as plastic, or low-quality wood, which may not provide sufficient protection for your picture.

3. Price

Custom framing is usually more expensive than ready-made frames due to the personalised design option and high-quality materials used. Ready-made frames are generally cheaper and widely available, making them a more affordable option for framing.

4. Time

Custom framing can take several days to complete since each frame is individually constructed to your specifications. Ready-made frames are immediately available and can be purchased whenever you want.

5. Size

Custom framing can accommodate pictures of all sizes, whereas ready-made frames come in standard sizes, limiting your options for framing larger or smaller pictures.

6. Personalisation

Custom framing allows for a higher level of personalisation, where you can add elements and custom designs that match the picture. Ready-made frames do not provide this level of personalisation.

Tips For Displaying Your Framed Artwork

Here are some fun tips for displaying your framed art:

• Create a gallery wall by mixing and matching different sizes and colours frames.
• Hang your artwork at eye level to make it easy to appreciate.
• Create a theme by grouping similar pieces of artwork together.
• Use contrasting colours to make your artwork pop.
• Place artwork in unexpected places, such as above a doorway or on a bookshelf.
• Use lighting to highlight your artwork, such as track or picture lights.

Displaying your art is an opportunity to showcase your style and creativity. Have fun with it and experiment until you find a display that truly speaks to you.

Elevating Your Art: The Craftsmanship of Picture Framing

In the art of picture framing, the frame is like the icing on the cake.

It elevates the art, turning it into a masterpiece. The right frame can make the colours pop, the details sing, and the emotions soar. It’s the magic wand that waves away the distraction and focuses the viewer’s attention on the art.

So, let your imagination run wild and embrace the art of picture framing to add that extra sparkle to your cherished memories.

Here at Mobile Frames 2 U, we offer our mobile framing services for your artwork, photographs, and memorabilia. We have a team of skilled professionals who ensure expert craftsmanship and provide framing consultation to ensure our customers’ art pieces are presented in the best possible way.