Framing an artwork? Here’s What You Need to Know
Framing a piece of art is much more than enclosing it in a border; it’s about enhancing the visual appeal of the artwork, protecting it from damage, and ensuring it fits seamlessly into its surroundings. A well-framed piece can completely transform how it’s perceived, whether it’s displayed at home, in an office, or in a gallery.
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Why Framing Matters
A frame is more than decoration—it can help protect your artwork from dust and handling. For delicate works on paper, such as photographs, watercolors, or prints, the glazing, mounting materials and space between the artwork and glass need to suit the work. Framing does not remove the risks from light, heat or changing humidity.
Beyond protection, good framing draws attention to the artwork itself, emphasizing its colors, textures, and composition. The right frame, matting, and glass create a harmonious balance, complementing the art without overwhelming it.
Glass Choices: Regular Glass vs. Art Glass
The type of glass you choose for your frame affects both the appearance and preservation of your artwork.
Regular Glass: Affordable but prone to glare and limited UV protection. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to fading.
Art Glass: Anti-reflective glass can reduce glare, but UV filtration varies by product. Ask your framer for the specific product and its UV-filtering properties.
Museum Glass: Can combine reduced glare with high UV filtration. Ask your framer for the specific product and its properties, and choose glazing to suit the artwork’s materials and condition.
Avoid direct sunlight, even with UV-filtering glass. Visible light can also fade sensitive materials. Limit exposure to strong light and ask your framer to match the glazing to the artwork and its display conditions.
Floating Mount or Passepartout?
When framing works on paper, photos, or prints, it’s crucial to prevent the artwork from directly touching the glass to avoid sticking over time. The two most common methods are floating mounting and framing with passepartout (also known as matting).
Passepartout: Comes in various colors and adds depth or contrast to your presentation. A suitably chosen window mat can help keep the artwork away from the glass. The mounting materials and method should suit the work.
Floating Mounting: Displays the whole sheet, leaving the edges visible. Spacers can provide room between the artwork and glass. The attachment method and spacing must suit the paper, surface and condition; the presentation alone does not determine how the work is mounted.
The choice between these two methods depends on the artwork’s style, paper type, and how you want it presented.
How Much Does Framing Cost?
The price of bespoke framing depends on the artwork’s size, the moulding, glazing and mounting method. Ask the framing workshop for a quote for your artwork.
Atelie works with Interart on framing. We can help you choose a frame, passepartout and glass for your artwork.
Let Us Help You
Contact us at hello@atelie.art for advice and a good price on framing.
FAQ
Why is framing important for artwork?
Framing enhances the visual appeal of your artwork and can help protect it from dust and handling. It also helps integrate the piece into your space. Long-term preservation depends on suitable mounting materials, glazing and display conditions.
What’s the difference between regular glass and art glass?
Regular glass can produce glare. Anti-reflective glass reduces glare, while UV filtration is a separate property that varies by product. Ask your framer for the specific glass and its properties; the term “art glass” alone does not specify its UV protection.
Is museum glass worth the investment?
Glass sold as museum glass can combine reduced glare with high UV filtration, but the specific product matters. Choose it according to the artwork’s materials, condition and display location. Avoid direct sunlight even with UV-filtering glass: visible light can also fade sensitive materials.
What is the purpose of a passepartout?
A passepartout, or matting, creates a border around your artwork, adding depth and preventing the artwork from touching the glass. It also allows you to customize the presentation by choosing different colors and widths.
What is floating mounting?
Floating mounting displays the whole sheet, leaving the edges visible. Spacers can provide room between the artwork and glass. The attachment method and spacing should be chosen for the paper, surface and condition of the work.
How much does it cost to frame an artwork?
The price of bespoke framing depends on the artwork’s size, the moulding, glazing and mounting method. Request a quote for your artwork.
How do I choose the right frame for my artwork?
Consider the style of your artwork and the space where it will be displayed. Neutral frames like black, white, or natural wood are versatile, while bold or decorative frames can make a statement. Professional framers can help guide your decision.
How do I prevent my artwork from sticking to the glass?
A suitable window mat or spacers can help keep the artwork away from the glass. A floating presentation alone does not ensure sufficient separation: the framer must assess the paper, surface and condition. Consult a conservator before mounting a fragile or damaged work.
Can I frame any type of artwork?
Yes, but the method and materials may vary. Works on paper, like prints or photographs, often benefit from UV-protective glass and matting. Paintings on canvas typically don’t require glass but may need a protective frame.
Do you offer framing services?
Atelie works with Interart on framing. Contact us for advice and a good price on framing your artwork.
Editorial update, 9 September 2026: The guidance on glass, mounting and conservation has been revised with reference to the Canadian Conservation Institute’s advice on framing works on paper and light damage, and Interart’s guide to glass products. Request a quote for bespoke framing.
