Framing Guide

Favorite Frames

Framing Tips

Framing Supplies

Acid-free tape | screwdriver | D-rings for hanging hardware | hanging wire | vinegar + soft rag to clean glass | pre-cut mat board (read more below) | Hanging hooks

Size and Style

I recommend going larger than the print size. For example, for an 8x10 print you would choose a 14x17 or 11 x14 frame. This way you can add a mat. I also recommend simple, clean, gallery frames with a white mat for artwork. I love natural wood finishes or white frames. This way the artwork stands out and it doesn’t clash with the frame.

Matboard

Some frames come with precut mats but if you want something more custom you can go to your local framer and get a mat cut to fit your artwork. You can also get them cut online at matboard.com. I love plain, white, wide mats with my artwork. I usually get one that provides a 2 to 6-inch border.

Glass or Plexi?

Either is great! However, do not use paper towels on plexiglass because they will not remove scratches and may even cause them. Stick with micro fiber type of cloth. Also, avoid ammonia-based products like Windex or other home cleaners because they may damage the surface and leave it cloudy looking. When framing larger pieces of art I do like using acrylic plexi instead of glass because sometimes the glass can be too heavy for the frame and damage the jointing.

Online and Local Framers

There are SO many framing options now. If you rather not deal with framing art yourself your local frame shop will do the job for you.

You can now send your print or artwork to places like Simply Framed or Framebridge and they will frame it for you. They have great design services too for things like gallery walls. Framebridge will send you a mailing tube or box with a pre-paid label so you can send the art to them and then they will also cover the shipping of the piece back to you. It is a great option!

5 Online Framers That You Will Love

If you are looking for suggestions on where to get your artwork framed online then head over to my blog to read my suggestions.