Let’s talk about framing!
Firstly you’ll notice that I very rarely sell an artwork with a frame. Why? Well, there are two main reasons. The first is that framing is SO subjective. Everyone decorates their space in a unique style and I always think it’s best to let the person buying the piece decide how exactly they would like it to look. Secondly, and this is a biggy, it helps me keep the price of my work down.
Honestly, sometimes I would like to sell pieces framed but framing is an expensive endeavour that I can’t financially take on without a guarantee of that artwork selling. I feel on the whole it works out better for both parties if framing happens once a piece arrives at you. This way you can get exactly what you want. I know that I’m very particular about who I use and what I want for framed pieces in my home and am sure 99% of people are the same! (Also, let’s be honest, sending glass via courier is always a bit nerve-wracking no matter how much you wrap).
That being said, let me share some of my general suggestions with you that I think work nicely when it comes to framing (I actually have a certificate in professional picture framing as well so would like to think I sort of know what I’m talking about.)
Firstly, when it comes to standard-size unframed works like paper or canvas board there is literally nothing wrong with a ready-made frame! Most of the ones that are commercially available in South Africa are actually really nice. There’s a stigma about using readymade frames but honestly, once there’s something in it and it’s up on your wall no one will know you popped down to Mr Price. Country Road has a beautiful line of frames (although I would argue these move out of the affordable realm but that’s to be expected with a name brand) as do places like Echt Frames. Mr Price Home, @ Home and even places like PNA and The Crazy Store have some nice modern-looking frames as well. These won’t be wood, rather a wood finish like melamine but really they do a fantastic job and don’t break the bank.
That being said the things that a professional framer can do are amazing. There are a few who are very stuck in their ways and very overpriced but you’ll definitely be able to find someone who will talk through what they think is best for your artwork in conjunction with the vision you have. They’ll be able to advise you from their perspective on what will and won’t work but if you can go to them with an idea (or images of the space you’re hoping to put the piece in or framing you like) they’ll be able to find something that matches both the room it will be hanging in and the artwork. The pricing will vary greatly though so ask for multiple options in similar finishes if you can to get the best value for money. Sometimes it’s the mount board that acutally pushes the price up a lot (if you’re not using solid wood) so experiment with different depths of mount to see if that helps with the pricing.
(If you are using a framer just be sure they use acid free archival tape. 99.9% of them will do this as standard as normal tapes will age and potentially cause discolouration if in contact with your art over time. If you’ve found someone who is suspiciously cheap this may be the reason why.)
My personal preference for framing is a minimal frame. A lovely natural wood or white box frame with a floated artwork for paper works (generally) and either a flush or slightly recessed canvas edging for paintings on canvas.
Let me show you a few different examples of framing styles. We see a lot of the more neutral minimal styles but you can get really fun with it!
Hope this helps you on your framing journey! Pinterest is full of amazing images to use as reference if you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, that’s where I found all of these.
Happy framing!
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