Canvas framing: Is it the same as framing a print
As an artist or collector, finding the right framing option for your artwork is essential. A canvas painting is a unique form of artwork that requires careful attention when choosing a frame. Framing options can make a huge difference in how your artwork is displayed, how long it lasts, and how much value it holds over time.
Framing a canvas painting is very different from framing a print. While prints can be mounted behind glass and matting, canvas paintings require more care in selecting the right frame. A canvas painting is stretched and stapled onto a wooden frame and then a frame can be added around the canvas if desired.
The frame you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the artwork itself, and where it will be displayed. There are various framing options to choose from when it comes to canvas painting, and here are a few:
1. Floater Frames:
A floater frame is an excellent choice for contemporary and modern artworks. It is designed to give the impression that the artwork is floating within the frame. The canvas is attached to the frame from the back, giving a borderless effect. This type of framing option is suitable for larger canvas paintings, giving them a polished and professional look.
2. Traditional Frames:
Traditional frames are perfect for classic and antique paintings. They are characterized by ornate, highly decorative mouldings that complement the artwork. This type of frame comes in different materials, including wood, metal, and plaster. Traditional frames are a great choice if you want to enhance the artwork's historical value.
3. Shadow Box Frames:
A shadow box frame is a perfect choice if you want to create depth and give your artwork a unique display. This type of frame is deeper than traditional frames, giving a three-dimensional effect to the painting. The frame creates a space between the canvas and the glazing, making it suitable for thick canvas paintings.
Once the canvas has been stretched and the frame has been put on, it’s time to hang it on the wall… But we haven’t added glass yet, so why not?
Using glass when framing a canvas is generally not recommended because glass can come into direct contact with the canvas, which can lead to several problems.
First, glass can stick to the canvas, especially if the painting is exposed to heat or humidity. This can cause the paint to lift off the canvas when the glass is removed, damaging the artwork.
Second, glass does not protect paintings from fading. In fact, if the glass is not UV-resistant, it can accelerate the fading process by allowing harmful UV rays to penetrate the painting. Over Time, this can cause the colours in the painting to fade and become less vibrant.
Third, Condensation. Glass can also cause condensation to form between it and the painting. This can happen when there are rapid changes in temperature or humidity, such as when a painting is moved to a different location. The moisture can damage the paint and cause mould and mildew to grow.
for these reasons, we do recommend that you don’t put any glass on top of a painted canvas, once it’s on the wall, a gentle wipe with a horse hair brush should remove any dirt and dust that has settled on the artwork.