The Ultimate Guide to Framing Your Fine Art America Prints

The Ultimate Guide to Framing Your Fine Art America Prints

by

Choosing the right frame for your Fine Art America prints can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process and Fine Art America frames, ensuring your artwork is displayed beautifully and protected for years to come.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Understanding Your Fine Art America Print
  3. Choosing the Right Frame
  4. Framing Considerations
  5. DIY Framing vs. Professional Framing
  6. Hanging Your Framed Print
  7. FAQ Section

Introduction

Fine Art America is a popular online marketplace offering a wide selection of art prints. Once you’ve found the perfect print, framing is crucial to enhance its visual appeal and protect it from damage. While this guide focuses on Fine Art America prints, the information and principles discussed here apply to framing prints from any source.

Understanding Your Fine Art America Print

Before diving into framing options, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of your Fine Art America print:

  • Print Mediums: Fine Art America offers various print mediums, each with unique characteristics:
    • Canvas: A classic choice for art prints, offering a textured and painterly feel.
    • Paper: Versatile and affordable, available in different finishes like matte, glossy, and fine art papers.
    • Metal: Durable and vibrant, metal prints deliver a sleek and modern aesthetic.
    • Acrylic: Known for exceptional clarity and depth, acrylic prints offer a contemporary, high-gloss finish.
  • Paper Types: If you choose a paper print, pay attention to the paper type:
    • Matte: Minimizes glare, ideal for subtle and detailed artwork.
    • Glossy: Creates a vibrant and reflective surface, emphasizing colors and contrast.
    • Fine Art: Archival quality, acid-free paper for long-lasting prints with a luxurious feel.
  • Print Sizes: Select a print size that harmonizes with your available space and complements the artwork’s composition.

Choosing the Right Frame

The right frame elevates your artwork, complementing its style and enhancing its impact:

  • Frame Styles:
    • Modern: Clean lines, minimalist design, often featuring metal or wood in simple finishes.
    • Traditional: Ornate details, classic profiles, typically crafted from wood with decorative finishes.
    • Ornate: Highly decorative, often with intricate carvings and elaborate embellishments.
    • Minimalist: Simple and understated, letting the artwork take center stage.
  • Frame Materials:
    • Wood: Warm, classic, versatile in style and finish.
    • Metal: Sleek, modern, durable, available in various finishes.
    • Plastic: Affordable, lightweight, but less durable and prestigious.
  • Matting Options: Matting adds a visual buffer between the artwork and the frame, enhancing the presentation:
    • Purpose: Creates visual space, protects the artwork, prevents glass from touching the print.
    • Colors and Styles: Choose mat colors and styles that complement the artwork and the frame.

Framing Considerations

Beyond the frame itself, consider these factors for a perfect presentation:

  • Glazing Options:
    • Regular Glass: Affordable but prone to glare and reflections.
    • Non-glare Glass: Reduces glare, preserving image clarity in bright environments.
    • Acrylic: Lightweight, shatter-resistant, offers good UV protection.
  • Conservation Framing: For valuable or sentimental prints, conservation framing uses archival materials and techniques to preserve the artwork:
    • Acid-free Mats and Backing: Prevent acid migration that can damage the print.
    • UV-Filtering Glazing: Protects the artwork from fading caused by ultraviolet light.
  • Budgeting: Framing costs vary widely based on materials and complexity:
    • DIY Framing: More affordable, requiring basic tools and materials.
    • Professional Framing: Higher cost but ensures expert craftsmanship and specialized options.

DIY Framing vs. Professional Framing

You have two primary options for framing your Fine Art America prints:

  • DIY Framing:
    • Pros: Cost-effective, creative control, rewarding experience.
    • Cons: Requires time, effort, and basic framing skills.
    • Step-by-Step Guide:
      1. Gather Your Materials: You’ll need a frame, mat board (optional), glazing, backing board, measuring tape, cutting mat, utility knife, ruler, framing points or brads, hammer, and hanging hardware.
      2. Measure and Cut: Carefully measure your print and mat board (if using). Use the utility knife and ruler to cut the mat board and backing board to the correct size.
      3. Assemble the Frame: Place the glazing, mat board (if using), print, and backing board inside the frame. Secure them in place using framing points or brads.
      4. Attach Hanging Hardware: Attach D-rings or wire to the back of the frame for hanging. Ensure they’re securely fastened and evenly spaced.
  • Professional Framing:
    • Pros: Expertise, precision, conservation framing options, access to specialized materials and equipment.
    • Cons: Higher cost, potentially longer lead times.
    • Tips:
      1. Find a Reputable Framer: Look for framers with experience in handling art prints and offering conservation framing options.
      2. Communicate Your Vision: Clearly convey your desired frame style, matting, glazing, and hanging preferences to the framer. Bring your print for reference.
      3. Discuss Conservation Options: If preserving the print is crucial, discuss archival materials and techniques with the framer to ensure long-term protection.

Hanging Your Framed Print

Once your print is framed, the final step is displaying it on your wall:

  • Wall Types:
    • Drywall: Requires appropriate anchors and screws for secure hanging.
    • Plaster: May be more delicate, requiring specialized hanging techniques.
    • Brick: Requires sturdy anchors and drill bits designed for masonry.
  • Hanging Hardware:
    • D-Rings: Secure and reliable, best for heavier frames.
    • Wire: Flexible, allowing for adjustments in height.
    • Sawtooth Hangers: Simple to install but less secure for heavier frames.
  • Placement and Composition:
    • Eye Level: Position the center of the artwork at eye level for optimal viewing.
    • Lighting: Consider natural and artificial light sources to avoid glare and enhance the artwork.
    • Surrounding Decor: Balance the framed print with other elements in the room, creating a cohesive aesthetic.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to common questions about framing Fine Art America prints:

  • What is the best frame style for a landscape photograph?
    • Landscape photographs often look stunning in minimalist frames that allow the image to shine. Modern or traditional styles can also work well, depending on the photo’s aesthetic.
  • Do I need to use a mat with my print?
    • Matting is not mandatory, but it often enhances the presentation, especially for paper prints. It creates visual space, protects the artwork, and prevents the glass from touching the print.
  • What type of glazing offers the best UV protection?
    • Acrylic glazing generally provides good UV protection, preventing fading caused by ultraviolet light. For maximum protection, choose museum-quality acrylic with UV-filtering properties.
  • Can I frame a canvas print myself?
    • Yes, you can frame a canvas print yourself. However, canvas prints often look stunning without a frame, as the image wraps around the sides.
  • How do I prevent my framed print from fading over time?
    • To prevent fading, choose UV-filtering glazing, avoid direct sunlight, and control humidity levels. Conservation framing with archival materials provides the best long-term protection.
  • Is Fine Art America a good source for high-quality art prints?
    • While Fine Art America offers a wide selection, quality can vary. Consider exploring individual artist websites for high-end prints with more control over materials and craftsmanship.