Framing your new artwork

Wondering how to frame that beautiful new piece of artwork that you acquired? Look no further! I’ve put together some tips for you based on my experience framing my own artwork and my time spent working as an in-house picture framer.

There are several routes depending on budget and one way is not necessarily better than the other, however at the very least I recommend adding a layer of protection in front of your newly acquired art piece. 

Purchasing an already made frame in a store: 
If you’re on a budget or are really into DIY options, then you can simply buy a frame off the shelf at a local arts and crafts store or online. Just keep in mind that some online stores don’t offer the best quality glazing, so make sure you are getting good quality UV glass or you can change it out later. The size of the frame is usually listed on the packaging and some frames include precut mats, if for example you are buying a frame for an 8x10 print then look for an 11x14 frame with an 8x10 mat.

For an 8x10 frame the cost will be roughly $20-50 depending on material. The only con to buying in store is that you are limited to their options, but if you want cheap and simple this is your solution. 

Reccommendations for store frames: Michaels, Blick Art Materials, generally any art store is a good choice, but department stores like Ikea, Walmart and target also have decent options (although likely they won’t have UV glass, or framing services if you need a custom mat, etc.)

Taking it to a custom framer:
Custom framers know their stuff, so if you don't want to go through all the hassle of buying and assembling the frame, then you can take your new piece of art to a frame store. Just keep in mind that custom framing can start at $100 minimum for an 8x10 print. Some custom frame shops may already have premade frame options and charge a small fee for assembly. But it depends on the frame shop, call up the shop and ask for a quote. Making a custom frame takes longer than purchasing one already made, about 2 weeks normally.

The nice thing about custom framing is that you can customize the look and size of the frame. If you buy an already made frame, then you are limited to what is available at the store. Also, framers with experience have great tips on design and can guide you towards the perfect frame for your artwork.

Other considerations:
Glass, UV glass and museum quality: Your local framer can explain, but I'd advise looking for UV glass or Acrylic. UV glass/acrylic protects your art from fading over time. You may not think that could happen, but I've seen it happen to my own work that didn't get a ton of sunlight shining on it. If the print has meaning to you then it might be beneficial to get that protection.

Matting: Matting serves many benefits, including a layer of separation between your print and the glass. This is important because moisture can cause your artwork to stick to the glass, matting also adds breathing space between your art and the frame. However, if your print already has a large white margin around it, you may decide not to mat it. In this instance, especially if it’s an original, then your framer will usually provide glass spacers. But be sure to specify that's what you want. Glass spacers lift the glass from your artwork and come in different sizes.

If you have a pre bought frame, and want to go the DIY route for assembly,  you can cut your own spacers with matboard or foam core at 1/4" wide with a craft knife, using wood glue or double sided tape to adhere them on the inside edge of the frame, so that it buts right up against the glass on the inside edge. The easiest option, if you have an original and want to DIY, is to buy a frame with a mat.
You can also buy a premade frame at an Art store with a framing department and have them cut a mat and glass for you if you want the mat to be more customized.

I hope the framing tips were helpful, if there's anything else you want to learn more about or if you have an questions, click reply and let me know!