Framing Made Easy: A Simple Guide to Beautiful, Finished Artwork

Framing your artwork shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Whether you’ve ordered a rolled canvas print, a paper print, or a ready-to-hang stretched canvas print, there are a few simple ways to get a polished, high-end look without overthinking it. Here’s everything you need to know.

💡Short on time? I offer framing options for both paper prints and stretched canvas prints to make the process as easy and seamless as possible! If you’re looking for a specific size, finish, or style, feel free to email me. I’m happy to help you create something custom that fits your space perfectly.

A Quick Note About Framing Costs

One thing that surprises many people is how expensive custom framing can be once they start pricing it out locally. Between the frame itself, matting, glass or acrylic, mounting, and labor, professional framing often costs much more than expected, especially for larger artwork. Many people are shocked to find that custom framing can cost as much as (or sometimes more than) the artwork itself. Professional framers often point out that the materials, precision work, and archival-quality components all add to the final cost. 

Because of this, ordering your artwork already framed through my shop is often the most economical and stress-free option. My framed pieces are professionally produced to fit the artwork perfectly and arrive ready to hang. This can save you both time and unexpected framing costs later.

But if you do plan to frame the artwork yourself, I highly recommend getting a few quotes from local framing shops before purchasing so you have a realistic idea of the total investment ahead of time.

Start Here: What Type of Art Do You Have?

The best framing approach depends on how your artwork arrives:

• Rolled canvas → needs to be stretched or mounted
• Paper prints → best framed under glass
• Stretched canvas → can be hung as-is or with floater frame

Once you know what you’re working with, the rest becomes easy.

Framing Rolled Canvas Prints

Rolling art prints is a very common way for large artwork to be shipped. It’s safer and more cost-effective—but it does require one extra step before hanging. (I usually recommend rolled canvas prints for my international customers who later want to have them stretched locally. You'll save a bunch on shipping costs!)

Option 1: Have It Professionally Stretched (Recommended)

Take your rolled canvas print to a local framing shop and have it stretched onto wooden stretcher bars. This process pulls the canvas tight and turns it into a gallery-ready piece.

My recommendation:
Have it professionally stretched locally for the best result. If you’re ordering from me, you can always email me ahead of time to ask about adding a printed border to your piece—this ensures nothing important gets wrapped around the edges.

Once stretched, you have two options:

• Hang it unframed for a clean, modern look
• Add a floater frame for a more elevated, finished feel

(Floater frames create a subtle gap around the canvas and are one of my favorite looks.)

Option 2: Frame Under Glass (Alternative Approach)

You can also frame a rolled canvas print similar to a paper print.

In this case:

• I recommend dry mounting the canvas to foam board first to keep it flat and smooth
• Then frame it under glass with a traditional frame

Dry mounting permanently adheres the artwork to a backing board and helps eliminate wrinkles or movement over time. If you go this route, just ask your local framer—they’ll walk you through the best materials and can even do it for you.

Framing Paper Prints

Paper prints are the most straightforward to frame and give you the most flexibility in style.

What to Look For:

• Glass front (standard or non-glare)
• Matting (optional, but adds a high-end look)
• Wood or metal frame depending on your style

My Favorite Frame Sources:

• West Elm — beautiful, high-quality modern frames
• Pottery Barn — classic, elevated options
• Target — great budget-friendly frames (I especially love their thin, modern wood styles)

A good frame can completely transform a print, so this is where you can really match your home’s aesthetic.

Framing Stretched Canvas Prints

If your artwork arrives already stretched, you’re in the easiest category.

Option 1: Hang It As-Is

Stretched canvas is designed to be displayed without glass and is ready to hang right away.

Option 2: Add a Frame

For a more finished look, you can add a floater frames (modern, minimal, my top pick).

Framing isn’t required, but it adds structure and helps protect the edges of the canvas.

Want Something Custom?

If you want your piece to feel truly tailored to your space, I offer:

• Custom framing
• Custom matting
• Custom sizes

If you don’t see exactly what you need on my site, just email me. I’m happy to help you figure out the best option for your space and your artwork.

Final Thoughts

Framing doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple guidelines go a long way:

• Rolled canvas → stretch it (or mount + frame under glass)
• Paper prints → frame with glass and consider matting
• Stretched canvas → hang as-is or add a floater frame

The goal is simple: make your artwork feel intentional, finished, and at home in your space.

And if you’re ever unsure, just reach out—I’m always happy to help guide you.