A Quick Guide to Picture Framing

1. What Is Picture Framing and Why Does It Matter?

Picture framing is more than a finishing touch. It’s the bridge between your artwork and the space it lives in. A well‑chosen frame protects your piece from dust, light, and accidental knocks, while enhancing how it’s seen.

Think of a frame as clothing for art: it can either complement the work or compete with it. And, just like fashion, frame styles come and go—but some classics never fade.

2. A Short History of Picture Frames

Frames have been part of the art world for centuries. In the Renaissance, master carvers created gilded wooden surrounds so lavish they were artworks themselves. Religious paintings and altarpieces were often “framed in” as part of the architecture.

By the Victorian era, frames became even more ornate—thick mouldings, heavy gold leaf, and intricate patterns. The 20th century flipped the script: modernists stripped frames down to slim black metal or natural wood, letting the art take centre stage.

Today, you can find everything from period reproductions to sleek minimalist designs, so you can match your frame to both your art and your décor.

3. Frames and Styles You Can Choose From

• Traditional mouldings: Carved wood, often gilded or stained—ideal for classical paintings or heritage prints.
• Floating frames: Make canvas art appear to “hover” inside the frame, with a neat gap around the edges.
• Shadow box frames: Deep frames for displaying objects, textiles, or layered artworks.
• Gallery frames: Simple, often white or black—perfect for photography and modern art.
• Rustic wood frames: Distressed or reclaimed timber—great for landscapes, folk art, or casual interiors.
• Minimalist metal frames: Slim aluminium in black, silver, or gold—suited to contemporary and graphic work.

4. Choosing the Right Frame for Your Artwork

• Oil & Acrylic Paintings: Usually displayed without glazing so the paint can “breathe.” Floating frames or traditional mouldings work well.
• Watercolours & Drawings: Always framed with glazing and a mat to prevent the paper touching the glass.
• Pastels: Must be framed under glass (not acrylic) to avoid static. Use a double mat or a spacer to keep the glaze away from the surface.
• Fine Art Photography: Looks crisp in gallery‑style frames with UV‑protective glazing to prevent fading.
• Limited Edition Prints: Benefit from conservation‑grade mats and UV‑protective glazing to protect their value.

5. Picture Frame Materials: Wood, Metal, and More

• Wood: Warm, versatile, and timeless. Can be painted, stained, or gilded.
• Metal: Slim, modern, and common in gallery settings.
• Composite/Plastic: Lightweight and affordable, though less long‑lasting.
• Eco‑friendly options: Bamboo or recycled timber for a lower‑impact choice.

6. Picture Frame Glazing Options: Glass vs Acrylic

• Standard glass: Affordable and clear, but prone to glare.
• Acrylic/Perspex: Lightweight, shatter‑resistant, and good for large works, but can scratch.
• UV‑filter glass or acrylic: Blocks harmful UV rays, reducing fading.
• Non‑glare or museum glass: Minimises reflections while offering high clarity.

7. What Is a Mat (Mount) and Why It Matters in Framing

A mat (mount) is the border between your artwork and the frame opening.

1. Stops the art from touching the glazing (which can cause sticking or damage).
2. Adds visual “breathing room” around the artwork.
3. Enhances presentation through colour and proportion.

Always choose acid‑free mats for valuable or delicate work. Double mats create depth and drama; coloured mats add personality—but neutral tones let the art speak for itself

8. How to Match Picture Frames to Your Home Décor

• Classic interiors: Ornate gold or dark wood frames echo period elegance.
• Modern spaces: Sleek black, white, or metal frames keep things minimal.
• Eclectic homes: Mix frame styles but keep a common thread—colour, size, or material.
• Gallery walls: Keep spacing consistent; heavier frames go near the centre or bottom for balance.

Sometimes contrast works beautifully—an old‑world print in a modern floating frame can be unexpectedly striking.

9. Where to Buy Picture Frames (UK & Online)

• Custom framers: Ideal for high‑value or unusually sized works.
• Online framing services: EasyFrame or Frames.co.uk, Framebridge, Simply Framed, Level Frames
• High‑street options: IKEA, Habitat, The Range, Wilko, Dunelm.
• Vintage & second‑hand: Charity shops, flea markets, antique fairs, car boot sales; perfect for unique finds.

10. DIY Picture Frame Ideas and Care Tips

DIY framing tips

• Use ready‑made frames with custom mats for a bespoke look on a budget.
• Upcycle old frames with new paint or finishes.
• Buy second‑hand frames and swap in your own artwork.

Care tips

• Dust frames gently with a soft cloth.
• Clean glass or acrylic with non‑ammonia products, applied to the cloth (not directly to the glazing).
• Keep framed art away from direct sunlight unless it has UV protection.
• For light‑sensitive works, rotate displays occasionally to reduce exposure.

11. Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a lavish gilded surround or a sleek floating frame, the goal is to protect and showcase your piece in a way that feels timeless. This said, frames can cost as much as the art they contain, and I for one often reuse old frames, buy from cheaper online or high street stores and then, there is alway the option to hang unframed 😉, after all it's the art you love.