A guide to framing art prints
I get a lot of questions about framing, which is no surprise given the overwhelming number of options available! Local frame shops are a great choice when you're looking to frame your piece, as they have a wide selection of options and the expertise to frame your artwork professionally and beautifully. However, the cost of professional framing isn’t within everyone’s budget, and that’s where DIY framing comes in!
If you're up for doing your own framing, there are some great options out there. I've put together a few steps to help save you time and guesswork when you're looking to frame your print yourself! The prints I offer in The Print Shop are printed to the edges of the paper, so there's no need to trim the piece once you receive it – it's ready to drop into a standard-sized frame.
The frame in this example includes a mat, but you can follow the same instructions for an un-matted print if you’re using a frame that’s the exact size of your print.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
You’ll need:
Your frame (frame shown can be found here)
Your print (an 11x 14 size of Jenna’s “In The Open” print is shown, sold in The Print Shop)
Acid-free double-sided tape (I recommend this tape)
Scissors
butter knife (optional)
glass cleaner (optional)
pencil (optional)
latex gloves (optional)
Step 2: Disassemble your frame
The frame pictured is enclosed with metal tabs. I use a butter knife to carefully bend back the tabs while preserving my fingers!
If you’re using a previously-used frame with brown kraft paper covering the back, carefully cut it the paper around the edges with an x-acto knife or scissors.
You may also need a screwdriver if your frame is assembled with screws.
This step would be a great time to clean the glass with glass cleaner, allowing it time to dry fully while you work on your next steps! If you have a pair of latex gloves, be sure to put them on as you clean the glass to avoid adding unwanted fingerprints!
Step 3: Place your double-sided tape
With clean hands, carefully remove your backing board (and mat, if included) from your frame, and remove your print from the plastic sleeve
Place your print on the backing board, and place the mat on top. Re-position the print between the mat and backing board to get it positioned correctly – so no gaps are visible between the print and the mat
Keeping the print in place, slowly remove the mat without shifting the print – it may take a few tries! Place a finger on the print to hold it in place as you lift the mat. You may even want to mark the corners of the print on your backing board with a pencil – taking care not to mark your print
Using your double-sided art tape, begin sticking tape directly to the backing board (cardboard or fiberboard) to mark the edges of the print. This is what your print will stick to, so be sure to get the tape under where the print will lay. Re-place your tape as needed. When you're finished creating a line of tape for each border, you will have a grid of tape on your backing board.
Step 4: Place and adhere your print
Peel off the white backing for the tape on all sides
VERY carefully position your artwork on the sticky side of the tape. Press along the line of tape to ensure the print is adhered to the tape around each edge.
Tip: I find it helpful to stick down one edge first, then remove the backing on the other 3 tape edges and slowly stick the rest down – this way you’ll be sure your print is positioned correctly as you’re adhering it!
Step 5: Place your mat
Line up your mat with the backing board – be careful not to lay it down too quickly in case any of your tape is exposed around the edges of your print!
Lay your mat down carefully over the print
Step 6: Place matted print in your frame, reassemble and enjoy!
Lay your matted print back in your frame
Reassemble your frame
Pat yourself on the back and enjoy your newly-framed art!
A final note on frames
Your choice of frame and matting (or decision to leave out a mat) is individualized to your taste, preferences, and blending with the other decor in your home or business. While I can’t make guarantees on quality or service, I have enjoyed working with the following framing vendors:
AmericanFrame: your best option for DIY custom sizing
Michaels: offers ready-made frames (for framing yourself) and custom framing
Opposite Wall: clean, modern frames at a competitive price point. Easy-to-navigate website and lots of square options!
If you do decide to go the professional route, here are some of Apartment Therapy's reader favorites for local framing shops around the US, and a quick read from Forbes on the importance of shopping local – around the holidays or any time!