With so many choices available selecting the right frame can be a bit of a pain. Here are some simple tips and visual references for works on paper.

Floating, Matting or Bleeding to the edge

Floating means the artwork is attached to a backing material like an acid-free core (a thick foamy card) or a wood panel, allowing for a gap between the work and the frame. This type of mounting creates a shadow around the work and adds another dimension. It’s suitable for original paintings on paper with an interesting texture or edges.

Matting is a common way of presenting art. A white or an off-white mat is a safe choice and often the most effective in letting the art stand out. If you’re tempted by coloured mat then don’t go for lighter than the lightest or darker than the darkest colour/tone in the painting. One mount is clean and classic, but if you do go for second – accent mat choose a colour from the painting. Matting works well with small and medium sized artworks. Large mats on a small detailed artworks can look particularly attractive.

Bleeding to the edge is what it says on the tin and is as straight forward as it gets. It’s suitable for larger artwork or prints and for pieces with white border or plenty of white space around the subject.

For further framing consultation get in touch [email protected].