Todd Sumamno
When you’ve gotten your hands on the perfect piece of art in the form of a print or poster, you’ll need a frame to show off your art. There are hundreds and even thousands of different frames that you can choose from, so, exactly how do you go about selecting one?
Thankfully, when you need to choose a frame, there isn’t a right or wrong choice. There are many frames that would be able to work with your art piece. However, you will soon realize that different frames create different impressions.
According to professional art framers, there are 3 ways that you can select a frame and we’ll now look at them.
1. Frame According to the Piece of Art
This is usually ideal when it comes to picture framing since you’ll choose a frame that has the right color and style according to the actual art piece.
A good example of this is if you have a contemporary piece of art then it may be best to pair it with a modern looking frame. So, you can choose a painted wood frame of even a metal frame. If your art piece is on the rustic side, then a frame that is made from weathered wood may be more suitable.
Next, you’ll need to look at the color. If the art piece has a lot of red in it, then you should select a frame that compliments that red color. You can even use this color in your mats since the mat and frame should both work well with the art piece. This will create the most visual appeal that will make the art piece the center of attention without any distractions.
2. Frame According to the Room
Next, your art’s frame should work well with the overall decor and theme of the room. This means that you should strive to tie in the different colors and design of the room with the frame. So, if you have a room that is filled with mostly white furniture and your art piece if very colorful, then it may be a good idea to choose a frame that is also white to match your furniture.
On the other hand, if you’re placing the art piece in your bedroom and you have a wrought iron headboard, then consider selecting a wrought iron frame for your art piece. In the same fashion, if you have a brass headboard, you can also select a brass frame. Consider exactly where you want to hang your art piece and what type of feel you want to achieve.
Remember that even when you’re trying to integrate your frame with your decor, it isn’t necessary for you to exactly match the room. There is still lots of space for imagination and you can easily coordinate your frame with your room by getting a frame that is a similar style or color as the room.
3. Frame According to What You Personally Prefer
When you decorate your home, you are able to truly express your own style and personality. This also extends to your choice in framing for your artwork. By choosing a frame according to your personal preferences, this allows you to make a statement and stand out.
For example, if you have a red mat with a black and white piece of art, you can use a silver frame to make it pop. If you want to frame your child’s artwork, you can even use a classy and ornate frame. These are both eclectic choices, but they can definitely work. Whatever works for you and appeals to you and your personality is definitely worth experimenting with.
When you choose a frame that is offbeat, fun, flashy or odd in an intentional manner, it can really highlight your space. You can even choose whatever type of mat you desire and coordinate according to your personal taste.
In the end, all that matters is purposefully choosing your design and not making random choices. You should definitely try out different combinations of frames and mats to find one you enjoy the most. Trust yourself and allow your personality to come through in your choices. At the end of the day, once you’re happy with your framed artwork, that is all that matters, even if you make odd or unconventional choices.
Lastly, no matter how you decide to approach framing, it is important that you are consistent. This will ensure that the space is well coordinated and harmonious.
Resources:
https://www.framedestination.com/custom-frames/wood.html
https://www.artistsnetwork.com/art-business/custom-framing-what-a-framer-can-do-for-you/
Brittany
