HOW TO SELECT A FRAME FOR YOUR CANVAS PAINTING

To frame, or not to frame? This is a question that comes up frequently with our clients here at Laasya Art, typically after they have purchased an artwork and are preparing to hang it in their home. Many clients assume that framing is essential, but this is not always the case. The only exception is works on paper, such as drawings or limited edition screen prints, which must be framed for their own protection.

If you are debating whether or not to frame your newest piece, here are a few of our tried-and-true tips for framing paintings on canvas.

HOW TO FRAME A CANVAS PAINTING

First, framing a painting is optional — depending on whether the sides have been painted, you do not always have to frame canvas paintings! At the same time, a frame can help integrate the painting into a home’s existing decor and present a more polished look overall. So, if you choose to add a frame or would simply like to explore this option, keep in mind the following to pick the most appropriate frame:

• If the sides of the canvas have been painted, a frame is not a necessity but more of a stylistic choice. At Laasya Art, we do specifically ask our artists to paint the sides of their canvases so that each client has the option of framing or not, which results in considerable cost savings as frames can be expensive. If you are undecided, you can first hang the painting without a frame and see how that looks for a week or two.
• If a painting has a very complex image or texture — like mixed media works by artist Basuki Das Gupta, for example — we recommend leaving it unframed if the sides have been painted, as the frame will add yet another layer of complexity.

• If you decide to frame a canvas that is painted on the sides, our first choice is a floater frame in a solid color, for an elegant, finished look that does not distract from the art itself. In fact, floater frames — which you can see in the client installation above — are the most common type that we recommend to clients at Laasya Art.

• If the sides of the canvas have not been painted, however, we do recommend adding a non-floater frame. Typically, we recommend a frame that complements the colors in the painting but also gels with the decor in the space. If the overall vibe of your home is modern, for example, a minimalistic frame will work best. On the other hand, if the overall aesthetic of your home is ornate, a similarly detailed frame can help the painting fit in.
• Ultimately, when choosing a frame, it is important to remember that the painting is the primary story. The frame’s role is to enhance the painting while remaining in the background so to speak — the two should never compete for attention.

HOW TO FIND A LOCAL FRAMER

When choosing a local framer, we recommend working with a small business with a strong track record, as opposed to a larger franchise operation. Typically, we find that small businesses offer more attentive, individualized service, and they may offer better pricing depending on their overhead model. Here are some tips on vetting a framer:

• If possible, work directly with the owner, who will have the most experience and can advise you on the style and type of frame. Many framers who have been in the business a long time have a keen design sense and are adept at offering framing recommendations in minutes. That’s where we find one of their biggest value adds. They generally also know how to handle fine art.
• Read online reviews and look at any available photos of framing samples. Also feel free to call the framer and ask questions on pricing, services offered and timelines to get a sense of what it would be like to work with them.
• Ask if the framer offers delivery and professional installation if needed. Prices can vary quite significantly for these services.
• Ultimately, it is always important to conduct your own due diligence before selecting a framer to work with.

We hope this is a helpful guide on the best way to frame a canvas painting! If you have more questions about living with art in the home, check out our best tips on art care, or explore our collection of traditional and contemporary Indian art for sale to browse or buy online.

For guidelines on framing serigraphs on paper, please visit our blog on tips for how to frame fine art prints.

— Sonia Patwardhan