Let’s face it, choosing the right frame for your piece of art can be extremely intimidating. Most framing shops have hundreds of options, and that doesn’t even take matting into consideration! Unless you have a background in interior design, this whole process can feel very overwhelming!
So where to start? Well, we've compiled these handy tips to help you get started on the right foot and hopefully make this process a little less daunting.
When selecting your mat/s and frame, consider the décor style and color palette of the room you intend to display the art in. Aim to choose a frame and mat/s that will complement prominent design elements like wall colors, flooring, moldings, countertops and furniture.
Don’t be afraid to go bold if the artwork can handle a bold frame. Generally, the more colorful and dramatic the art is, the more dramatic you can go with your frame and mats.
It can be helpful to come prepared when you visit the framing shop, with a few photos and the measurements of the room you plan to display the piece in, as well as a paint swatch of the wall color. Also, figure out how much you want to spend before you arrive. Share all of these details with the framer so they can help you to select the ideal combination of materials for your custom framing project.
Mats
Most prints will look even better when framed with the right mat. A mat can make your artwork ‘pop’. There are however, some exceptions, including posters, which usually have enough going on that they will have a greater impact without having anything extra added to them beyond the frame.
The whole purpose of adding a mat to your artwork is to accentuate the art itself, so you want to be discerning when selecting the mat color/s. Bright and bold pieces of art can usually handle bright and bold mats and frames. This includes all the art in our ‘The Funky Stuff’ Collection.
Portraits and watercolor prints often look better with a more understated mat, perhaps in a neutral shade like off white, grey or black.
Some pieces do well with a second mat that sits inside the first mat - and your best bet here is to select a mat color that is found within the art itself.
Frames
Pretty much any piece of art will look fabulous inside a basic white acrylic or wood frame, but if you are going for a more eye-catching and bold look, consider choosing a brightly colored frame.
Whatever you choose, make sure it doesn’t overpower the art itself. Your frame should complement the art - not the other way around.
When selecting your mat/s and frame, don’t forget to consider the style and color scheme of the room you intend to hang it in.
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