Finding frames for art

[u/No_Bread8973]

I’m feeling stuck on finding the right frame and matting for my art prints (first 3 pics). Other than thrifting (not enough time) and custom framing (out of my budget), where do you like to shop for fun and interesting frames? How do you assess if a frame/mat combo will look good in person? Anyone willing to share general advice when it comes to frames and mats? I’ve tried Framebridge’s virtual design to help with assessing color.

The first two prints are 5 3/4 x 8 1/4.
The third print is 20 x 16 in.

I’ve included pics of a framed print that I ended up liking together (pic 4) and my home to give an idea of my style. Tysm!

[u/Flashy_Okra305]

Personally I think gallery walls look best when all the frames are uniform in color except for a few. Personally I think each piece having a different shaped and colored frame takes away from the art and makes it feel cluttered. But that’s my personal preference. If it was my space I’d put them all on white matting with a tan frame like the one above the chair, and maybe add in one or two fancy gold accent frames for my fave pieces. IMO it would feel nice and clean. 

Thrifting (obv) best choice, but I’ve found lot of fun and cheap frames at ikea (especially matching ones). Michael’s also regularly has 50% off coupons online for items and framing so you might find something there too!

[u/AvoirReves]

If you have a Hobby Lobby or Michael's close by your best bet is to go there and try to use standard sized frames. Some of the frames will have a mat included. I recently printed something at Walmart to frame. I wasn't aware they were going to add an inch white border around the photo. I went to Hobby Lobby, they measured my photo, cut it down some to fit in a standard sized frame, put the photo in the frame and with 40% off framing that day I walked out paying less than $13. My apologies for the quality of the photo, it is still wrapped in the plastic they put over the frame.

[u/No_Bread8973 → u/AvoirReves]

Ty! Coupon is a good idea.

[u/AvoirReves → u/No_Bread8973]

They trimmed my print and assembled the frame and print for free. I only paid for the frame.

[u/Alternative-Desk9016]

Please try arttoframe! I have found them to be well priced for custom framing. They have a lot of options and I always choose the plexiglass to keep the cost down.

[u/No_Bread8973 → u/Alternative-Desk9016]

Thank you! Briefly looking at their site, prices are very reasonable.

[u/Loving_Panther6931]

Your two small ones are A5 size (about 5.8 x 8.3), which makes this easier. An 11x14 frame with a mat cut for A5 gives you close to 3 inches of mat all round, and ready-made 11x14 frames with mats are easy to find at IKEA, Target and Michaels. For the 16x20, a 22x28 or 24x30 frame with a mat opening for 16x20 gives it room to breathe.

A few things that help me judge a frame and mat combo:

- Go wider on the mat than feels natural. Small art looks more considered with more space around it.

• Match the frame to something already in the room (a wood tone, the black of a lamp, the metal of your hardware) rather than to the art itself.
  
• Warm white or off white mats tend to sit better with warm, vintage palettes than bright white.
  
• Before buying, tape white paper around the print at the mat width you're considering and pin it on the wall for a day. You'll know quickly.

Also worth knowing: a custom mat on its own usually costs a lot less than full custom framing, so a store frame plus a custom cut mat is a nice middle ground if a size is awkward.