Framing your artwork

Framing for impact


Once your artwork is printed, framing brings it fully into the space. A frame can act as a bold visual statement or remain discreet, allowing the work itself to take centre stage. In every case, framing adds structure, protection and presence to the artwork.

There are many approaches. Some collectors prefer a simple frame that quietly supports the work. Others enjoy experimenting with colour, scale or historic frames to create a more expressive presentation. If you are unsure where to begin, a thin wood or aluminium frame in white, black or natural wood is always an elegant and reliable choice.

You may choose to work with specialist craft framers who design and build frames individually, or with professional framing studios offering curated catalogues of frame profiles. Ready-made frames from retailers can also be an excellent starting point. Some collectors even begin with a frame they love and then print their Black Flag Art artwork to fit it. Antique and vintage frames can also create a beautiful dialogue between contemporary artwork and historic craftsmanship

Framing is both a practical and creative step in bringing the work into your interior.

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Framing styles

A skilled framer can elevate your Black Flag Art print into a finished artwork. The materials used, the precision of the assembly and the experience of the framer all influence the final result.

Wood

Wood frames offer a timeless and versatile presentation. Natural wood tones can bring warmth to a space, while painted finishes allow the frame to blend subtly with the wall or interior palette. Thin wooden profiles work particularly well for contemporary artwork, while wider profiles can add a more traditional or decorative character.

Aluminium

Aluminium frames provide a clean, architectural aesthetic that suits contemporary interiors. Their thin profiles and precise edges allow the artwork to remain the focus, making them popular in galleries and modern homes. They are lightweight, durable and available in a wide range of finishes including matte black, brushed metal and white.

Floating

Floating frames create the impression that the artwork is suspended within the frame, leaving space around the edges so the print appears to “float.” This style works particularly well with contemporary art and can give the work a sculptural presence. Floating mounts often require careful preparation and are typically produced by specialist framers rather than automated framing services.

Box

Box frames provide extra depth between the artwork and the glass, creating a sense of space around the print. This presentation allows the artwork to sit slightly away from the frame, giving it a refined gallery feel. Box frames are often used when the artwork itself has texture or when a more architectural presentation is desired.

Tray

Tray frames, sometimes called shadow or gallery trays, hold the artwork within a shallow recess so that the edges remain visible. They are frequently used with mounted prints or artworks on rigid panels such as Dibond. This style creates a very clean contemporary presentation and works well for larger pieces.

Acrylic

Acrylic frames can add a bold, contemporary character. Often produced in bright colours or transparent finishes, they allow the frame itself to become part of the visual statement. Acrylic framing works best when used intentionally as a design element within the interior.

Vintage frames

Antique and vintage frames can create a striking contrast with contemporary artwork. Rather than selecting a frame after printing, some collectors start with a frame they already own or discover one they love, and then crop and print the artwork to fit. This approach can produce unique and highly personal results.

Designer frames

Ready-made frames from designers can be an excellent starting point. Many are beautifully designed and well produced, and they allow you to experiment with different presentations. Choose a frame you like and then crop and print your artwork to fit the dimensions.

for FRamed Prints

Passe-partout

A passe-partout sits between the print and the frame, creating visual space around the artwork. Traditionally cream or off-white, it can also be used creatively in coloured or textured finishes. Passe-partouts soften the presentation and connect the artwork to its architectural setting. While many online labs offer standard options, more bespoke solutions are usually achieved through a professional framer.

    • Technical Standards

    Choosing a good framer

    Experience & Reputation

    One of the best indicators of quality is who the framer works with. Framers regularly trusted by photographers, artists or galleries tend to have strong technical standards and attention to detail. Good quality framing is a skill that artists, collectors and galleries value highly.

    Frame Profiles

    Most framing studios offer catalogues of frame profiles in different materials, depths and finishes. Viewing these samples in person allows you to understand how different profiles interact with the artwork and the space.


    Mounting

    A good framer will help you visualise the finished framed artwork and advise on how the artwork should be mounted within the frame; whether floating, with a passe-partout or presented within a tray frame. The mounting method should support the artwork while maintaining a clean presentation.

    Visiting

    Whenever possible, visit the framer with your printed artwork. Seeing the work in the space, testing frame samples and discussing mounting options can make the process far easier and more enjoyable.

    Availability and Timing

    Some craft framers produce exceptional work but may require longer production times. If your project has a deadline (for an event, installation or gift) then check the expected timeframe in advance. Always check the delivery times for online framers too.

    Glass Options

    Framers typically offer several glazing options including standard glass, UV-protective glass and museum glass with anti-reflective coatings. Glass choice affects both protection and how the artwork is perceived under different lighting conditions.

    Attachment and Hanging

    Framers will advise you on the best hanging system for your artwork. There are many different ways you can hang your framed artwork to a wall. The best system will depend on the weight of the work, your intended composition and whether you want to make a hole in your wall.

    the final step

    Hanging your artwork


    Hanging a framed artwork usually involves fixing a hook, screw or nail into the wall and attaching the frame to it using a hanging system on the back. The method used will depend largely on the weight of the frame and the type of wall surface.

    Most frames use simple attachment systems such as D-rings with picture wire or cord, two fixed hangers, or concealed wall brackets. Picture wire allows the frame to hang from a single hook and makes small adjustments easy, while two fixed hangers offer greater stability and help keep the frame perfectly level.

    In many galleries, artworks are hung from picture rails installed near the ceiling, using adjustable cables and hooks. This system allows artworks to be repositioned without making holes in the wall and makes it easy to adjust the height or spacing of a composition.

    For lighter frames, adhesive hanging systems can sometimes be used, though they are generally best suited to smaller works and smooth wall surfaces. Heavier frames are best supported with screws or wall anchors appropriate to the wall material.

    Your choice of hanging system should balance practicality and precision. For example, hanging several works in a carefully aligned arrangement is often easier using two fixed hangers on the back of the frame rather than a single wire system. A good framer will usually advise on the most appropriate hanging method for the size and weight of the artwork.

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    Framing your story.

    Framing is the final step in bringing your artwork fully into your space. There is no single correct approach. Framing can be discreet, expressive, contemporary or traditional depending on the character of the interior and the presence you want the work to have.

    If you are unsure where to begin, start simply. A thin wood or aluminium frame with a neutral mount is always a strong and elegant solution. From there, you can explore other styles as your collection grows. If you want a good online solution now, we suggest WhiteWall who offer good printing and framing solutions. We have no affiliation with them but they produce good work.

    The goal is always the same: to give the artwork the presence and care it deserves.

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