Framing Guide
Framing your new print is a necessity if you hope to keep it in great condition for years and years to come. I get asked frequently about recommendations for framing based on visual preferences, but there are other variables that one should consider before making a purchase. What are those variables? There are usually two main goals when it comes to framing: either a focus on high quality, art preserving materials, or a focus on inexpensive and fast.
The framing materials you choose really do matter for the life of the print. If you use a professional framing service, like Framebridge or your local framing shop, you are going to end up with a piece that is carefully contained in an acid-free, UV resistant environment. However, having a piece custom framed isn’t in everyone’s budget, and I don’t believe that means that it isn’t possible to choose framing options that are beneficial in preserving the life of your print.
Because framing shouldn’t feel like a daunting task, my hope is to compile a list of options that are affordable, good for the life of your art, and that look great with any piece you may be framing.
BLICK WOOD GALLERY FRAMES
PROS: I love these frames. They are clean and simple, and don’t take away from the focus, which is the art. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, including natural wood (shown here), walnut, white and black.
CONS: The styrene (plexiglass) that the frame comes with is not UV resistant, but you can simply and affordably swap it out for this sheet, and you’ll be good to go.
BLICK METAL GALLERY FRAMES
PROS: They’re simple, durable, and really pretty. The front profile of the frame is nice and thin, but they’re 1 3/8” deep, so they look and feel high quality. They come in gold, silver, and matte black, which is oh so beautiful.
CONS: They’re not as user friendly to put together. The process of framing involves a screw driver and little screws, and a bit of a learning curve that doesn’t take long to get the hang of. These also come with a sheet of styrene (plexiglass) to cover your art that isn’t UV resistant, but you can swap that out for this, which will offer you UV protection.