Finding the right artwork for your space is only half the battle. Once you find a piece that resonates with you and works in your space, you then have to decide how to frame it. With so many options out there framing can be an art, and choosing the right frame can enhance a piece, however, choosing the wrong one could be a distraction. In this post, I will cover some factors you want to consider when choosing a frame for your piece of art.

Color, Style, and Material

Artwork and frames are always viewed together so it is important that they complement each other. Frames come in thousands of styles so it can easily be an overwhelming task to choose the right one. It’s important not to overcomplicate it and keep most frames simple and minimal like they do in museums. Consider how the frame can present the work most effectively - for example opting for a darker frame on a lighter print will enhance the work with some contrast and set it apart from everything else in the space.

Consider the spectrum of colors in a print and choose a color for the frame that would match that. Wood frames in a black, white, or natural finish work well for most pieces. If you want a more luxurious look, try a metallic frame.

Consider A Gallery Wall

If you would like to work with a collection of different frames then a gallery wall is a great option to do so. Gallery walls look great when they have a collected feel, but you want to avoid choosing frames that are really similar. You may want to begin with two or three simple styles and then bring in more ornate frames or vice versa. It is best to plan out your gallery wall before buying pieces and frames.

Consider The Purpose Of Frames

The purpose of a frame should be to focus the attention on the work and protect it from the elements. If you stay somewhere humid with a lot of light, a frame with glass should be used to counter these elements.

Conservation Tips

It’s best not to hang artwork over sources of heat, like a working fireplace, heater, or oven. If you plan on putting artworks in a room with a working fireplace, keep in mind that they will definitely need to be in glass to protect it from smoke. This is the same for rooms where you burn candles too.

Pigments across mediums may be sensitive to direct sunlight and electric lights. Avoid placing artworks too close to sources of light, unless they are LED lights.

Lastly do not hang works on damp or recently plastered walls, especially if they are close to air vents. If your artwork is valuable or sentimental, never store it in an attic.

I hope these tips help you to choose great frames and you can choose great art too if you head over to the store you can see the digital prints I have available!