What frame should I choose?

Clients often ask, “What frame should I choose?” How big should the mat be? What sort of glass do I need? These are great questions, and they come up often for a good reason. There’s a bewildering variety of framing options, and choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. The truth is, the way you frame your painting or print can make all the difference—it’s not just about protection, it’s about presentation.
Naturally, your best option is to take your new artwork to a trusted, professional framer. A good framer is worth their weight in gold. They’ll help you make decisions about proportions, colours, and materials that suit both your artwork and your home. They’ll know which glass offers UV protection, which matboard won’t discolour over time, and how to mount the print safely without compromising its value. Their advice is invaluable, and their experience often guides you toward choices you may never have considered.
That said, if you’re the kind of person who likes to do a little research first—like me—you might enjoy experimenting with a few of the excellent framing and visualisation apps available. These apps allow you to place your new artwork virtually on your own wall. You can try out different frame styles, colours, and sizes right from your phone or tablet. While they’re not perfect (no app can truly replicate the texture and tone of a real print or matboard), they can make the process a little easier before you set foot in a framing shop.
I always compare this to looking up a menu before going to a restaurant. I like to have some idea of what’s available before I arrive. The same logic applies to framing. Knowing what you’re drawn to—whether it’s sleek and modern, or something more classic and ornate—will help your framer narrow down the options and guide you toward the best result.
My best advice is simple: don’t be in a hurry. Framing is an investment, and good framing will last decades. It’s worth taking the time to live with a few options, to think about where your artwork will hang, how the light falls in that space, and how the colours of your room interact with the piece. The right frame should complement the artwork, not compete with it.
It’s also worth noting that framing can be expensive—sometimes it costs as much as the print itself, or even more. The materials, craftsmanship, and archival quality all contribute to that price. But when you consider that a beautifully framed print becomes a lasting part of your home, it’s money well spent.
Ultimately, framing is the finishing touch—the final act in bringing your artwork to life. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts (and your framer’s eye). The right frame not only protects your print but enhances its presence, allowing you to enjoy your new artwork exactly as it was meant to be seen.