Art Framing Intel

Impact Art Value With A Quality Frame

Written by: Jammin Jane

By paying attention to these tips, you can ensure that your artwork is not only well-protected but also beautifully presented, enhancing its impact and longevity. 

Frames can be made from a variety of materials, each offering different aesthetics and levels of protection for the artwork.Choosing the right combination of materials depends on factors like the artwork's value, size, style, and intended display environment. For valuable or sentimental pieces, archival-quality materials should be used to ensure the artwork's long-term preservation.

Sourcing wood framing materials can be done through several channels, depending on whether you're looking for standard sizes or custom options. 

 Here are some common materials and terms used in art framing:

WOOD:

Hardwoods (e.g., oak, walnut, cherry): These are durable and offer a classic, elegant look. They can be stained or painted to match different decor styles.

Softwoods (e.g., pine, cedar): These are lighter and more affordable than hardwoods, often used for simpler or rustic frames.

METAL:

Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and available in various finishes (e.g., matte, polished). Aluminum frames are popular for modern and minimalist styles.

Steel: Stronger and heavier than aluminum, steel frames can provide a sleek industrial look.

COMPOSITE:

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Engineered wood product that is cost-effective and can be finished to resemble various wood grains.

Polystyrene: Lightweight and affordable plastic that can mimic the appearance of wood or metal frames.

FRAME ASSEMBLY HARDWARE:  Includes screws, clips, staples, nails, glue, brackets, etc.

FLOAT FRAME:  Artwork is visible from all sides, "floating" within the frame, often used for canvases and artworks with visible edges.

RABBET FRAME: Artwork is enclosed within the frame, with edges covered by matting and other framing materials, suitable for a wide range of flat artworks.

Here is a modern, simple, float frame sourced from Amazon:

Order this 16" x 20" Float frame with next day delivery in natural engingeered wood for a reasonable price.  Easy. Fast. Decent.

Great for 3/4" profile canvas.

STRETCHER BARS: These are straight-edged bars commonly used for regular canvases with 3/4" profile.  If the canvas is large additional bars that can be inserted into the back of larger frames to provide extra stability and prevent warping.

GALLERY WRAP DEPTH: These have a deeper profile (typically 1.5 inches or more) to accommodate canvases that will be wrapped around the edges, allowing for a frameless presentation.

BOARD DEPTH: Common painting boards are made of masonite or wood and are 1/4" profile. This is most often framed in a rabbet frame. 

CRADLE DEPTH: Common wood panels are often cradled with a profile of 3/4" to 2". This can be left unframed or framed in a float frame.

ACRYLIC: Used instead of traditional glass for its lightweight, shatter-resistant properties, and UV protection capabilities. It's commonly used in frames for valuable or large artworks.

GLAZING: Traditional framing glass provides clear and non glare versions but can be heavy and prone to breaking.

MAT BOARD:  Made from paper-based materials (e.g., cotton or alpha-cellulose), matboards are used to surround the artwork within the frame. They come in various colors and textures and serve to enhance the presentation of the artwork while providing space between the artwork and the glass/acrylic.

BACKING BOARD: Provides support and protection to the artwork from behind the frame. It can be made from materials like cardboard, foam board, or acid-free archival materials for conservation framing.

HANGING HARDWARE: Includes hanging wire, D-rings, and screws for attaching the artwork securely to the frame and facilitating hanging on walls.

Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other artists to gauge the performance and durability of specific brush models. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases .Personal experiences from fellow artists can provide valuable insights into the suitability of any kind of brush for your artistic needs.