Canvas Framing 101: Tips for Showcasing Your Canvas Prints

Due to their stunning visual appeal and durability, canvas prints have become a popular choice for art lovers and home decorators. Whether you have a cherished photograph or a beautiful piece of artwork on canvas, framing it thoughtfully can elevate its impact and transform your living spaces. In this Canvas Framing 101 guide, we'll explore some valuable tips to help you showcase your canvas prints like a pro.

Know the Type of Wrap

Gallery wrap and studio wrap are two popular methods of stretching canvases, each offering distinct presentations for your photo or artwork. Understanding their differences can help you choose the most suitable option for showcasing your canvas prints.

Gallery Wrap Stretched Canvas: Gallery wrap is a technique where the canvas is stretched and wrapped around the stretcher bars, with the artwork's image extending over the sides. This creates a seamless, frameless appearance, allowing the artwork to be displayed without needing an external frame. The sides of the canvas are usually blank or feature a continuation of the main image. Gallery wrap canvases are ideal for modern and contemporary artworks and photographs, where the focus is on the central image itself. They provide a clean and minimalist look that draws attention to the artwork's subject without the distraction of a frame.

Studio Wrap Stretched Canvas: Studio wrap, also known as museum wrap or full bleed wrap, is another stretching method where the canvas is wrapped around the stretcher bars, but the entire image is visible from the front, including the edges. Unlike gallery wrap, the sides of the canvas in studio wrap are an extension of the main image, giving the impression that the artwork is "bleeding" off the edges. This method ensures that no part of the artwork is lost on the sides, making it suitable for artworks with essential details or elements that extend to the edges. Studio wrap canvases offer a more immersive and dimensional look, emphasizing the continuity of the artwork from the front to the sides.

Choosing Between Gallery Wrap and Studio Wrap: The choice between gallery wrap and studio wrap largely depends on the style and composition of your image and your personal preferences. If your artwork has a central focus and looks aesthetically pleasing without the need for additional framing, gallery wrap might be the better option. On the other hand, if your artwork has important details or elements that extend to the edges and you want a more immersive presentation, studio wrap can be a great choice. Ultimately, both methods provide excellent ways to display your canvas prints, and you can select the one that complements your photo or art and suits the overall ambiance of your living space.

Pay Attention to Canvas Depth

Paying attention to the depth of your canvas photo or art is a crucial aspect to consider when selecting a frame, as it directly influences the overall presentation and fit of your artwork within the frame. The depth of a canvas refers to the thickness of the stretcher bars that support and stretch the canvas material. These stretcher bars determine how much the canvas protrudes from the wall when framed and can significantly impact the final look of your artwork.

When choosing a frame for your canvas, it's essential to select one with the appropriate depth that complements the thickness of your canvas. Opting for a shallow frame is ideal if your canvas has thin stretcher bars and is relatively flat against the wall. A shallow frame closely hugs the canvas, creating a sleek and minimalist appearance. This option is particularly suitable for canvases that are intended to blend seamlessly into the overall decor or for artworks with subtle textures and minimal relief.

On the other hand, if your canvas features thick stretcher bars and has more pronounced depth, a deeper frame is the way to go. A deep frame provides ample space for the canvas to fit comfortably without feeling cramped. This style is well-suited for canvases with intricate textures, heavy brushstrokes, or 3D elements, as it allows the artwork's depth to be showcased and celebrated within the frame.

Choosing the wrong frame depth can result in an ill-fitting or awkward presentation. If a shallow canvas is placed in a deep frame, it may appear recessed and overwhelmed by the frame's thickness, diminishing the impact of the artwork. Conversely, if a deep canvas is squeezed into a shallow frame, it may protrude from the frame's back or be difficult to secure properly, compromising the artwork's stability and safety.

Choose the Right Frame

When it comes to choosing the right frame for your canvas photo or art, wooden frames offer timeless elegance and versatility. Wooden frames are available in various finishes and styles, making them suitable for a wide range of artistic expressions. For a contemporary and sophisticated look, consider canvas floater frames. These frames create a striking effect by allowing the canvas to "float" within the frame, leaving a small gap between the artwork and the frame's inner edges. This design highlights the entire canvas, including its edges, giving your art a captivating three-dimensional presence.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional approach, deep profile frames are an excellent choice. These frames encompass the edges of the stretched canvas, providing a snug and classic presentation. Deep profile frames add depth to your artwork and offer a polished finish, giving your canvas photo or art a refined and museum-quality appearance. Whatever style you opt for, wooden frames are sure to complement and enhance your canvas, bringing out the best in your cherished memories or artistic creations.

Seek Professional Framing Services

Seeking professional framing services when framing a canvas photo or art print offers several significant benefits that can enhance your artwork's overall presentation and longevity.

• Expertise and Experience: Professional framers have extensive knowledge and experience in handling various types of artwork, including canvas prints. They understand the intricacies of framing materials, techniques, and design elements, ensuring your artwork is perfectly framed.
• Quality Materials: Professional framers use high-quality materials to protect and preserve your artwork. From acid-free mats and UV-protective glass to sturdy stretcher bars, they ensure that your canvas print is framed using materials that will safeguard it from damage and fading over time.
• Customization Options: Framing professionals offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to choose from an extensive selection of frames, mat boards, and glazing options. This ensures that your canvas print is framed in a way that complements its style, colors, and dimensions, resulting in a personalized and visually pleasing presentation.
• Preservation and Conservation: Framing experts take conservation seriously, ensuring that your canvas photo or art print is framed using archival and museum-grade materials. This not only enhances the longevity of your artwork but also protects it from dust, moisture, and other potential environmental factors.
• Professional Finish: Professional framers have the tools and skills to ensure your framed canvas's polished and professional finish. They precisely cut mats, expertly align the artwork, and professionally mount the canvas, ensuring the final product looks stunning and gallery-worthy.

Additionally, for added convenience, our website offers the option to print your files on canvas and then frame them. This all-in-one service allows you to upload your digital files, have them professionally printed on canvas, select a frame, and have the finished, framed canvas delivered right to your doorstep. This seamless process saves you time and effort, making it easy to transform digital images into beautiful, framed artwork without leaving your home.

Grouping and Arrangement

Creating a captivating gallery wall with grouped canvas prints is an art in itself and can transform any blank wall into a stunning display of memories and artistic expression. One of the keys to success is mixing and matching different sizes and styles of frames. The interplay between various dimensions and designs adds visual intrigue and depth to your arrangement. Larger canvases draw attention and act as anchor pieces, while smaller ones complement them, creating a harmonious balance.

Before committing to a final arrangement, take advantage of the floor as your canvas. Lay out the canvas prints in different configurations, experimenting with different layouts until you find the perfect composition. This approach allows you to visualize the arrangement on a larger scale and easily adjust. To enhance the overall aesthetic, you can easily swap positions, rearrange the order, or introduce additional elements, such as wall decals or decorative accents.

By following these tips, you can confidently display your canvas prints and turn them into captivating focal points within your home or office. Whether it's a cherished memory or an artistic masterpiece, framing your canvas with care and consideration will enhance its beauty and allow you to enjoy it for years to come.

About The Author

Brittany DeMauro is the Creative Director here at CustomPictureFrames.com. With a background in creative writing and a passion for all things DIY, you'll find her in the shop crafting content. She can always find space for a fun gallery wall and loves discovering new artists to display around her home (in custom frames, of course!) When she's not creating content for our brand, she can most likely be found binging shows on Netflix with her two cats.