When you invest in fine art prints, the way you frame and display them can have a significant impact on how they enhance your home or office. Proper framing not only protects your artwork but also elevates its visual appeal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about framing and displaying fine art prints to create a stunning, cohesive look in your space.
1. Understanding the Importance of Framing Your Fine Art Print
Framing a fine art print serves several important functions:
- Protection: Frames protect your art from dust, moisture, and UV light, which can cause fading over time.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The right frame can complement the style of the artwork and help it blend seamlessly with your interior design.
- Value Preservation: Proper framing ensures that your art print maintains its integrity and value over the years.
While framing may seem like a straightforward task, the frame you choose can dramatically affect the overall look and feel of the art in your space.
2. Choosing the Right Frame for Your Fine Art Print
Selecting the right frame involves considering both the artwork and the surrounding decor. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect frame for your print:
Consider the Art Style
- Classic Art Prints: If your print is a classical or vintage piece, a traditional wooden frame in dark tones such as walnut or mahogany can enhance its timeless appeal.
- Modern Art Prints: For contemporary artwork, sleek, minimalistic frames in neutral colors like black, white, or silver tend to complement modern art without overpowering it.
- Bold & Colorful Prints: If your print features vibrant colors or abstract designs, you might opt for a frame in a color that either contrasts or complements the art to make a bold statement.
Matting: To Mat or Not to Mat?
- Matting is the border around the art print within the frame. It adds space between the artwork and the frame, giving it a “breathing room” and preventing the print from touching the glass.
- A white or neutral-colored mat works well for most pieces, while a darker mat can add a touch of drama for certain styles of art.
- When choosing matting, make sure it complements the tones in the artwork without distracting from it. The mat should also be acid-free to protect the print from damage.
Frame Material
- Wood Frames: Wood frames offer a classic, elegant look and work well for almost any type of artwork. They can be stained, painted, or left in their natural state, making them versatile for different styles.
- Metal Frames: Metal frames are sleek, modern, and minimalist. They’re ideal for contemporary art prints or when you want a clean, industrial look.
- Acrylic or Glass Frames: For a more modern and high-end feel, acrylic frames or glass frames can provide a clean, floating look, often used for high-end prints like Giclees.
3. Framing Options to Consider for Different Spaces
Where you place your art and how it fits with the surrounding environment is key to achieving a balanced and harmonious space. Here are some tips for framing based on the room or space:
Living Room
- The living room is often the focal point of a home, and art can make a bold statement here. Larger prints or a series of smaller prints (such as a gallery wall) work well in living rooms.
- Consider placing your artwork above the sofa or fireplace, ensuring it’s at eye level. This ensures it’s noticeable without overwhelming the space.
Bedroom
- In the bedroom, art prints should create a serene, relaxing atmosphere. Opt for soft, calming colors and smaller framed prints above the bed or on the bedside walls.
- Avoid cluttering the space with too many prints. A single, well-placed piece can have a peaceful, intimate effect.
Office or Study
- Art in the office should be motivating or inspiring. Consider framing prints that reflect your personality, passions, or professional goals.
- Larger pieces work well on the wall behind your desk, while smaller prints or photographs can be placed on bookshelves or side tables for a more personalized touch.
Hallways and Entryways
- Hallways often have limited space but can still be an excellent place for art. Narrow or long frames can fit well in these areas, creating an elegant, welcoming vibe when people enter your home.
- Consider creating a gallery wall with a mix of frames and artwork for a dynamic look.
4. How to Hang Your Fine Art Prints Correctly
Once you have chosen the right frame for your print, hanging it properly is crucial for displaying it to its full potential. Follow these steps to ensure your art is displayed beautifully:
Eye Level Placement
- The general rule of thumb is to hang your artwork at eye level, which is about 57-60 inches from the floor. This makes it comfortable to view and creates balance in the space.
- If you’re hanging art above a piece of furniture (like a sofa or console table), leave around 6-10 inches of space between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame.
Spacing Between Frames
- If you're creating a gallery wall, make sure to keep consistent spacing between the frames. Generally, 2-3 inches between each frame works well for a cohesive look.
- For a more eclectic or casual feel, you can vary the spacing, but aim to maintain a balanced visual flow.
Use the Right Hardware
- For heavier frames, use D-ring hangers and picture hanging wire to securely attach the artwork to the wall. Ensure the hardware is rated to support the weight of your frame.
- For lightweight frames, picture hooks or adhesive strips can work well without damaging the wall.
5. Protecting Your Art: UV Glass and Proper Lighting
To ensure your art remains in pristine condition, consider the following tips for protecting and displaying it:
Use UV-Resistant Glass
- When framing your print, consider using UV-resistant glass or acrylic to block harmful ultraviolet light. UV rays can cause fading and damage to your print over time.
- Opting for non-glare glass can also help reduce reflections, ensuring your artwork is always visible and vibrant.
Lighting
- The right lighting can dramatically enhance the beauty of your art. Use track lighting or picture lights that shine directly on the artwork to create a stunning focal point.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the print over time. Use soft, warm lighting for a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
6. Creating a Cohesive Art Display
Finally, think about the overall feel you want to create in your space. Whether you’re displaying a single piece or a collection, the art should complement the existing decor. If you have a minimalist room, you may want to choose simple, understated frames. If your space is eclectic, you can mix and match frames in different materials and styles for a more personalized, artistic look.
Conclusion
Framing and displaying your fine art prints thoughtfully can elevate your space and bring out the best in your artwork. From choosing the right frame and matting to considering the placement and lighting, each decision plays a role in how the piece will enhance your home or office. Whether you're displaying a statement piece in your living room or curating a gallery wall in your hallway, following these tips will help you create a space that feels cohesive, inviting, and full of personality.