Do you want to frame your works but you don't know what type of frame to choose or which framer to turn to? Artsper guides you in selecting the ideal setting thanks to its expert advice!
Framing has a dual function. It allows the work to be protected while enhancing it. Choosing a frame can be complex. We share our recommendations with you to find the one that will be best suited to your work.
Framing a painting on canvas
A painting on canvas can be framed in different ways. For a canvas on a frame (wooden structure allowing the canvas to be held taut) we recommend framing with an American box.
The American box offers relief and depth to your canvas thanks to the floating effect of the work in the frame and its absence of glass. The framing technique consists of leaving 1 to 2 cm between the canvas and the edge of the stick. The space between the frame and the edge of the canvas allows you to see the subject completely and make it more interesting.
If your canvas is not on a frame and you received it rolled in a tube, two options are available to you. You can choose to have the canvas stretched on a stretcher by a professional, or you can frame it with a simple glazed frame.
You can also decide to stretch your canvas on a frame by following the following instructions or by clicking here:
Framing a photograph on Dibond
Dibond is a composite material. It has a "sandwich" structure in which two aluminum plates are thermally bonded to a solid polyethylene plate in the center. Dibond is lighter than aluminum, but it is designed to maintain its rigidity and flatness. It is made of stainless steel, resistant to corrosion, UV and shock. Dibond panels are generally available in thicknesses of 2, 3 or 4 mm.
If you wish to frame your photograph on Dibond we advise you to opt for framing with an American box. The latter perfectly highlights works having a certain thickness.
As with paintings on canvas, the American box offers relief and depth to your photo thanks to the floating effect of the work in the frame.
Frame a lithograph, photograph, engraving, screen print, digigraphy or drawing
Works on paper are most often framed in a simple frame. A simple frame is made up of wooden or aluminum strips forming the edge of a window and a cardboard back. However, you will have to choose between a full-page frame (when the frame corresponds to the dimensions of the work) or with a mat.
The mat is a central sheet of cardboard, located between the borders of the frame and the work. It allows you to give depth to your work by placing a margin between the print and the edges of the frame.
The Marie-Louise, cousin of the mat, is used for oil works. Just like the mat, it is placed between the work and the frame but its difference lies in its material. It is a wooden panel covered with a fabric, usually linen.
For small formats (<A4) choose a mat between 1 and 10 cm wide to give space to your work without making it invisible in too much space.
The white (or off-white) mat is the most common. It allows the work to “breathe” within the frame. We advise you to use a mat for works loaded with details, with a fairly wide frame so as not to compress the work.
The black mat with a black frame gives depth to a work in dark tones.
You can also be creative and opt for colored mats or frames.
The different types of glass for simple frames
When you have chosen the appropriate frame, you will need to choose the corresponding glass.
The glass window is important if you want to protect your works on paper (watercolor, edition, engraving, drawing) from dust, humidity and other external elements.
There are three qualities of glass:
1. Basic / Standard
Basic glass is most often used. It helps protect the work but reflects light. These reflections can alter the appreciation of the work.
2. Anti-reflective
This glass is partly frosted. It protects against reflections but can interfere with color rendering.
3. Invisible optics
The invisible optical glass faithfully restores the colors, finesse and quality of works on paper, whether drawings, engravings or photos. Treated on both sides, it allows transparency and blocks reflections and light rays.
4. Anti-UV
The long-lasting and maximum protection of an anti-UV glass and harmful rays for optimal results.