If you recently completed a painting you want to display or came back from a downtown art walk with a new item, you’re probably looking for a frame to display your piece in. With so many framing options available, you may find it difficult to choose a style that complements your art and your home decor. To help you choose the kind that works best for you, here’s a guide to selecting the perfect frame.

How to Select a Frame For Your Artwork

1. Consider Its Weight

Larger pieces on heavier canvases require sturdier frames that won’t buckle under their weight, including solid wood and metal frames. For smaller art, you can get away with lightweight plastic or wood composite frames.

When you’re hanging bulky art, ensure you have the right mounting hardware. Expanding plastic sleeves and screw-in anchors accommodate up to 25 pounds, while large picture frame hangers using angled nails hold up to 50 pounds.

2. Think About Style

Your frame should complement your art without distracting from it. For landscape pieces, consider wooden or earth-colored frames, or metallic framing for modern or abstract compositions. You can also choose a frame that matches the color of the art’s focal point, or use wide framing for small pieces to make them stand out. When in doubt, choose a smooth and neutral-colored frame such as black or white, which will match any decor.

3. Don’t Forget About Matting

Thicker mats work best for small pictures and photos to help them fit in a frame, while two- to three-inch mats are ideal for art measuring at least 16 by 20 inches. If your piece is very large, you may not need matting at all. Most art framing experts recommend white, off-white, or other neutral-colored mats, which retain classic appeal and don’t distract from the framed image.

4. Keep Surrounding Pictures & Decor In Mind

When choosing to frame a new item, think about where your art will go so you don’t pick a style that will crowd the surrounding decor or look out of place. If your home is rustic, consider glossy or matte brown wooden frames, which evoke nature themes. If your space is more contemporary, shades of gray, black, or metal tones will fit right in with your sleek furniture. If you wish to create contrast between the art and your existing decor, consider antique-style or embossed frames, which draw attention and create a classical look without distracting from your piece.

If you’re looking for a frame for a picture or artwork, rely on the friendly and expert team at Denali Graphics & Frame. Based in Anchorage, AK, they offer framing supplies, canvas prints, metal prints, and custom framing options to display your pieces however you want. View some of their past projects on their website, or call (907) 561-4456 to discuss your project.