How to Frame Artwork & My favorite Frames | Creative Living

I get asked every now and then where I get our frames to use for my art or pictures in our home. While there are many options out there I know it can be overwhelming to choose and sometimes you just need a guide to just tell you exactly what to do. So that’s what this post is for. 

I know not everyone is familiar with frames and how to choose them, especially when you’re not in the art or interior world. So this post is to help give you a general understanding of framing and how it can be really simple. I’ll share some tips to begin and then share some of my favorite places to buy frames below. My hope is that this encourages you to just go for it! Hang that frame and piece of art or photo you’ve been putting off for years so you can make your home feel more creative and beautiful. Because what we surround ourselves with matters and there’s no easier way to elevate your home's surroundings with framed art and photos from your life’s story.

Understanding Framing:

Framing your favorite art pieces or photos can instantly add beauty and elevate the whole look, easily making them a focal point for your home. But if you're new to framing, the world of frame sizes and styles can sometimes be a bit overwhelming…I’ve been there. I’m that person that put off hanging things on our walls for YEARS because I never felt confident in this area. But you know what changed that for me? Just DOING IT! Like just hang the picture already and you’ll feel instantly more capable of your ability or worst case, you’ll have a reason to grow and get better at it!

Artwork in this photo is Mama No. 4 Art Print 

Here’s the gist of framing to get started:

Standard Frame Sizes

When you’re shopping at your local home decor store such as (Target, Home Goods, Ikea, etc.) you’ll see that the majority of the frames come in standard sizes to fit common artwork and photo dimensions. Some popular frame sizes include 4x6, 5x7, 8x10, 11x14, 16x20 inches. These are the sizes I offer with my artwork dimensions (with the possibility of adding new smaller sizes this year!) and keeps it pretty simple to be able to grab art you love in my shop and find a frame that will easily fit it. 

It’s good to note that the frame size is not based on the full frame size, but is just based on the inside of the frame dimensions, where the art or photo will be placed. So when choosing a frame, match the size to your artwork or photo to the size that the frame says. For example if you have an 8x10 art print then an 8x10 frame is what you will want to get. 

If your piece is an unusual size, you can often find a frame with a mat that will fit your artwork into a standard frame size. (More on understanding matting below).

Remember, framing is a personal choice, so don't be afraid to get creative and choose a frame that complements your art and style.

Mats in frames and how to use them:

You’ve probably seen that some frames come with a mat inside. A mat is a thick paper or cardboard border (usually white) that surrounds the artwork within the frame. For me personally, I love matted frames because I think it adds more focus on the picture or artwork inside and gives it more of an elevated look.

When you’re looking at frames with mats, you’ll usually see that they mention two different sizes. This is to give you an idea of the frame size with the mat and without the mat. For example, with a mat insert the opening would be 8x10 and without the mat in the same frame the size would be 16x20.

Mats can add a touch of elegance to your framed piece and provide several practical benefits for example:

Enhanced Presentation: Mats create a visual buffer between the artwork and the frame, drawing the viewer's eye to the art itself. They can help highlight the colors and details of your piece, making it appear more professional and polished.

Protection: Mats help keep your artwork away from the glass or acrylic sheet, reducing the risk of damage from moisture or sticking. They also provide some space for air circulation, which can be beneficial for certain types of art, such as watercolors.

Customization: Mats allow you to adjust the size of the opening, providing a border around your art that suits your style and the overall look you want to achieve. Like I said above if you have an unusual sized piece of art or photo, a mat can help customize your piece to the frame. In my opinion, a mat no smaller than 1.5 inches around is perfect. 

All that being said, using a mat is not always necessary. Some artwork, such as hand drawn art, photographs or bold pieces, can look great without a mat, allowing the art to fill the frame entirely to create a more impactful presence on the wall. Experimenting with different framing options can help you find the perfect look you’re wanting for your space. 

While most of the frames I choose are with a mat, I also have framed artwork that has no mat because I liked how the piece filled the whole frame. This is completely up to your preference and what you love. Always go with your gut and what YOU love…it’s your home after all!