How to Select the Right Picture Frames for Your Artwork

Most people overlook how much picture frames can change the look of their artwork. When I first started decorating, I realised that choosing the right frame is just as important as selecting the piece itself.

The right frame can enhance colours, protect your art, and bring everything together beautifully, while the wrong one can distract or even damage your work over time. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps to find frames that suit both your style and your space, making your art stand out in the best way.

Index

1. Understanding Picture Frames
2. How to Measure Your Artwork
3. Factors to Consider for Different Art Styles
4. Custom vs. Ready-MadePicture Frames
5. The Role of Matting in Framing

Key Takeaways

• Choosing the right picture frames enhances the overall impact of your artwork, making it stand out and complementing your room’s style.
• Consider the frame material carefully—wood, metal, or acrylic each offer a different vibe and durability to suit various types of art and decor.
• Frame colour and finish should balance with both the artwork and the surrounding space, helping to create a harmonious or striking contrast depending on your look.
• Size and proportion matter; frames that are too large or too small can overwhelm or underplay your pictures, so measure your artwork and plan accordingly.
• Don’t overlook the matting—it adds depth, protects the artwork, and introduces a buffer that can highlight your pictures in a subtle yet effective way.

1. Understanding Picture Frames

To select the perfect frames for your artwork, it helps to first understand the role they play. A frame doesn’t just hold your art; it complements and enhances it, setting the tone for how your piece is perceived in your space. From sleek modern styles to ornate classic designs, the frame you choose can highlight colours, textures, or themes within the artwork, while also matching your room’s overall vibe. I always encourage thinking about the mood you want to create—whether calm and serene or bold and energetic—because the right frame can really bring that out.

To make an informed choice, it’s useful to explore the materials, shapes, and finishes available. Some frames are crafted from wood, others from metal or even eco-friendly materials that appeal if you’re after sustainable decor options. You’ll find that certain styles suit specific types of art better, such as a delicate watercolour versus a large photographic print. Once you understand these basics, it gets easier to narrow down options that reflect your personal style and home aesthetic, making your space feel more inspiring and welcoming.

Importance of Choosing the Right Picture Frames

The right frame plays a huge part in ensuring your artwork looks its best and lasts long. It protects the piece from dust, moisture, and physical damage, while also preventing warping or fading over time. I’ve seen how an unsuitable one can distract from the art or make a beautiful image feel out of place within the room. Conversely, a carefully picked frame brings harmony and balance, giving your walls that polished finish you’re seeking.

Framing also ties the whole room together. Whether your style is minimalistic, vintage, or something more eclectic, matching it with your decor helps create a thoughtful, cohesive look. For those who love travel or nature-inspired art, choosing natural materials or rustic finishes can strengthen that connection to the theme. From my experience, the right frame acts like the finishing touch that pulls everything into place without being too overpowering.

Types of Picture Frames

Frames come in many shapes, materials, and styles—each offering something different for your artwork and space. Understanding the most popular types helps you decide what fits your decor and art best. Here’s a quick look at some common varieties:

• Wood Frames – Classic and warm, ideal for traditional and rustic styles.

• Metal Frames – Sleek and modern, often used for contemporary or minimalist looks.

• Floating Frames – Create a visual 'gap' between the art and frame, perfect for canvas or 3D art.

• Acrylic Frames – Clear and clean, great for modern spaces needing something light and simple.

Another key aspect when choosing frames is thinking about the finish and colour. This can change how your artwork interacts with light and your room’s palette. For example, a matte black frame often makes colours pop, while a distressed wooden finish adds a soft, vintage feel. It’s a subtle yet powerful way to add personality to your walls without overpowering the art itself.

• Glossy finishes add brightness but can reflect light, sometimes causing glare.
• Matte or satin finishes reduce reflections and offer a softer appearance.
• Neutral colours like black, white, and natural wood are versatile and timeless.
• Bold colours can highlight or contrast with specific tones in your artwork.
• Natural textures such as reclaimed wood or bamboo suit sustainable styling.

2. How to Measure Your Artwork

One of the first steps when selecting a frame is to get the measurements right. Accurate measuring ensures your artwork fits snugly without awkward gaps or a tight squeeze. It helps you visualise how the frame will complement your piece and the space where it will hang. Taking your time with this part sets you up for success and avoids frustrating returns or remounting later on.

When I measure artwork, I focus not just on the height and width but also on the depth. This way, I can find a frame that supports the thickness of the piece, whether it's a canvas, print, or mixed media. Measuring correctly also helps if you plan to include a mount or mat board, which can add a sophisticated touch but needs to fit with the frame size.

Tools You'll Need

Your toolkit doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple tape measure or a ruler is usually enough for most artworks. I find that a steel tape measure gives the most accurate results because it stays straight across the edges, which helps with uneven surfaces or large pieces.

Additionally, having a notepad and pen handy lets me jot down precise dimensions and any notes about orientation, like whether the frame will be vertical or horizontal. If you plan on getting creative with mounts or overlapping frames, a level can also be helpful to check if your piece is balanced before finalising the measurements.

Measuring Techniques

The first thing I do is place the artwork on a flat surface to avoid any distortions. I stretch the tape measure from edge to edge, measuring the width and height carefully at the outermost points. It’s best to take each measurement a couple of times and pick the most consistent number.

If the artwork includes a frame already or you’re planning to add one, I measure the depth by placing my tape measure perpendicular to the surface. This is especially important for canvas pieces that are thicker. Knowing this helps you choose frames that accommodate your artwork without pressing on it.

Art can come in many shapes and sizes, so I often recommend adding an extra few millimetres. This small margin makes sure the artwork fits comfortably and allows room for mounts or backing if needed.

Tips for Choosing the Right Colour and Material

After you’ve found the perfect artwork, selecting the right picture frames is the next step to really make your art stand out. The colour and material don’t just protect your piece—they also set the mood and influence how your artwork catches the eye. When picking a colour, I like to look closely at the tones in the artwork itself and the space around it. For example, a simple black or white frame can make bright or detailed art pop, while wooden styles often add a warm, natural touch that can complement more serene or organic designs.

With respect to materials, you’ve got plenty of options like wood, metal, plastic, or even eco-friendly choices. Here are a few tips I suggest:

• Wood tends to feel warm and timeless—perfect if you love a natural or classic look.
• Metal provides a sleek, modern feel that suits bold or minimalist artwork.
• Plastic can be budget-friendly and versatile, especially for casual or playful pieces.
• Eco-friendly materials fit well if sustainability is a priority in your décor.

Choosing colours or materials that resonate with your personal style can elevate both the art and your space. Being thoughtful about these choices adds a calming and inspiring atmosphere wherever your artwork hangs.

Matching Picture Frames with Your Artwork

There’s a lot to think about when matching frames with your artwork, but I like to start with the style and mood of the piece itself. For example, vibrant, abstract paintings often work well with simple, clean-lined options that don’t distract from the art. Meanwhile, traditional or detailed works, like landscapes or portraits, may benefit from ornate or decorative styles that add a bit of personality and depth.

I’ve found that matching the frame’s tone to the dominant colours in the artwork helps create a sense of harmony. Neutral options can let colourful pieces shine, but sometimes a bold colour can really highlight certain features in the artwork, especially if you want to make a statement. The right frame makes your art feel more connected to the space, inviting you to pause and enjoy it more deeply.

Considering Room Décor

Décor in your room plays a big role in guiding your choice of framing. If your living space has a calm, neutral palette, I usually recommend finishes that complement without overwhelming—soft woods or subtle metals often work wonders here. On the other hand, if you love lively colours and textures in your décor, you might want designs that either match or gently contrast with those elements to keep the overall feel balanced.

Think about how it will sit alongside your furniture, textiles, and other art pieces. A mix of finishes can add interest to a gallery wall, while consistent materials might feel more cohesive for a single piece. I always suggest visualising your choice in the context of your entire room to make sure it blends well and adds to the atmosphere you're trying to create.

It’s also worth considering the practical side of your room’s use—glare-reducing glass can be a blessing in bright, sunny rooms, while durable finishes might be better in busier family spaces. Ultimately, your choices help tie your artwork into the room’s personality, giving the space a polished, thought-out touch that feels truly like home.

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3. Factors to Consider for Different Art Styles

Not all frames are created equal, especially when it comes to matching them with various art styles. Choosing the right one can enhance your artwork’s character, balancing its colours, textures, and overall mood. For example, a sleek, modern style might overpower a delicate watercolour, while an ornate, vintage design could clash with minimalist prints. When selecting a frame, it’s helpful to think about the style of your art and how the presentation complements or contrasts with it.

Here are some key points I find useful when pairing different types of frames with artwork:

• Consider the colour palette and choose an option that enhances or subtly contrasts it.
• Think about the size and scale – a small piece might get lost in a chunky frame, while a large painting needs something sturdy and balanced.
• Texture matters – smooth finishes suit glossy prints, while rustic or distressed styles work well with earthy or vintage art.

This approach helps you find the right match that truly brings your artwork to life.

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Framing for Paintings

Any painting deserves a frame that complements its unique qualities, whether it’s an oil masterpiece or a soft pastel. I usually recommend choosing designs that pick up some hues from the painting itself, helping to highlight certain areas or improve depth. For example, gold or dark wood can add warmth to traditional pieces, while thinner, black styles often suit modern or abstract works better.

Paintings also benefit from options that provide protection, especially if they have a lot of texture or delicate brushstrokes. A deep or floater frame can give the artwork breathing room and create a sense of dimension. You might want to consider using UV-protective glass to prevent fading, particularly for paintings exposed to natural light. In my experience, the right choice not only enhances your painting but also helps preserve it for years to come.

Framing for Photographs

There’s a certain simplicity and elegance that comes with framing photographs, but the choices you make can really affect their impact on your room. I usually go for sleek, minimal options that don’t distract from the photo itself but rather allow the image to shine. Black, white, or natural wood are popular because they suit most photography styles and interiors.

Choosing the right mount is also important when working with photos. A clean white or cream mat can add space around the image and make it feel more polished. For black and white shots, a black mount can intensify contrasts and add drama. Whether your photos are modern prints or vintage snapshots, the frame and mount together create the stage where your memories come alive.

To protect your photographs, I highly recommend using acid-free mats and UV-protective glazing. Photos are often more sensitive to sunlight and environmental factors than paintings. This means selecting high-quality materials with protective features can prevent yellowing or fading over time. When you choose sturdy, well-made frames and mounts, your photos will stay crisp and clear, adding a timeless touch to your home.

4. Custom vs. Ready-Made Picture Frames

Now, deciding between custom and ready-made frames can feel overwhelming, especially when you want your artwork to shine in your home. Both options have a lot to offer depending on your style, budget, and the kind of space you’re decorating. I’ve found that custom designs give you a chance to create something truly unique, designed specifically to enhance your art and match your room’s decor perfectly. On the other hand, ready-made solutions are often more budget-friendly and easy to find, making them a popular choice when time is tight or you’re looking for a quick update.

Choosing the right frame can completely change how your art speaks to a room, so it’s worth weighing up the benefits of each option before making your pick.

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When to Choose Custom Framing 

When I come across artwork that really speaks to me or holds special value, I lean towards custom every time. It’s the perfect choice when your piece doesn’t fit typical sizes or if you want the picture frame to be an integral part of your décor.

Custom options also excel if you’re after layering textures, colours, or adding features like UV protection. If your vision is to have something that feels like part of your home’s personality, custom designs offer freedom that ready-made ones can’t match.

Custom framing also comes into play when you’re working with sensitive materials or precious photographs, as high-quality, acid-free backing and glazing can prevent damage. I find this especially useful if you’d like your artwork to continue inspiring calm and creativity in your space for years to come.

Pros and Cons of Each

Little compares custom and ready-made picture frames better than a clear look at their upsides and downsides. I find laying these out side-by-side really helps in picking what suits your needs and style best.

Finishing Touches: Matting and Glazing Options

Your choice of matting and glazing can add that final layer of polish to your picture frame. These finishing touches not only enhance the visual appeal but also protect your precious pieces from dust, light damage, and moisture. I've often found that selecting the right combination can breathe new life into a room, creating a calming and inspiring atmosphere.

5. The Role of Matting in Framing

Matting plays a significant role in how artwork is displayed. Beyond just adding a decorative border, matting also creates space between the glass and your art, preventing damage over time. I recommend choosing mats that complement both your artwork and the room’s colour scheme.

Types of Glazing and Their Benefits

You have several options to consider depending on your priorities for protection, clarity, and budget. Each type offers various benefits, making some better suited for certain artworks or environments.

Final Words

Now that we’ve explored the crucial of how to select the right picture frames for your artwork, I hope you feel more confident in making choices that truly enhance your space. Choosing the perfect frame is about balancing style, protection, and the overall vibe you want to create in your home. The right frame can bring your artwork to life and make your walls truly captivating.

More about…. 

If you want to dive deeper into this topic, I highly recommend checking out How to Choose the Right Frame for Your Artwork. It’s packed with helpful advice that complements what we’ve discussed here.