How to Frame and Display Your Art
A Guide to Showcasing What You Love
Great artwork makes a space beautiful, but artwork with a connection makes a house feel like home. Before photography became my career, it was my passion while I worked as an interior designer. Over the years, I've encouraged countless clients to fill their walls with pieces that mean something to them—whether it's a watercolor painted by their child, a piece that sparks joy, or a photograph that holds a cherished memory. When you truly connect with a piece of art, it will always have a place in your home.
But how do you frame and display your artwork in a way that does it justice? Let’s talk about it.
Framing: The Perfect Finishing Touch
Think of framing as accessorizing an outfit—the right choice can elevate and complete the look. Do you prefer clean and minimal? Bold and ornate? Vintage and full of character? Let your style and home guide your decision, but most importantly, have fun with it! And when in doubt, ask a friend.
✨ Need expert advice? With any purchase of $250 or more on my website, I’ll include a 30-minute online framing consultation to help take the guesswork (and legwork) out of the process.
If you’d like, I can even ship your fine art print directly to Framebridge, help you choose the perfect frame and mat, and share my artist’s discount with you. Your finished piece will arrive at your doorstep, ready to hang and enjoy—no hassle, no second-guessing.
Looking for a vintage frame? Let’s chat! Unsurprisingly, Charleston has an incredible selection of vintage and antique stores. While this isn't included in my framing consultation, I’m always happy to shop frames for you to find something truly special.
Want to use your favorite local framer or coordinate with existing pieces? Let’s do it!
Things to Consider When Framing
Frame Style
Your frame should complement both the artwork and your space. A minimalist frame with clean lines works well with contemporary pieces, while an ornate frame adds depth and drama to classical or vintage artwork. Traditional frames with warm wood tones create timeless elegance, while a modern frame—often metal or lacquered—adds a sleek, contemporary touch. The goal is to enhance the artwork without overwhelming it, so consider the mood you want to create.
Mat Width & Style
The width of your mat plays a huge role in how your art is perceived. A wider mat provides breathing room, making smaller pieces feel more substantial, while a narrow mat keeps the focus tight on the artwork itself. Looking for extra character? Textured or colored mats can add depth, while a double mat (layering two mats) creates dimension and a refined, gallery-style look.
Mat Color
White or off-white mats are timeless and work well with almost any piece, offering a clean, museum-quality look. However, don’t be afraid to experiment! A black mat can add drama and contrast, making bright colors pop, while a soft-toned mat in gray, beige, or pastel can subtly enhance the colors in the artwork. A bold-colored mat can bring out a key hue in the piece, making it a statement element in your space.
Mounting Style
Consider a float mount, where the entire piece is raised off the mat for a modern, dimensional look. Alternatively, a window mount frames the art within the mat for a classic presentation. For a more custom appearance, combine both techniques!
Where to Hang Your Art
The golden rule? Generally, at eye level. The center of the piece (or grouping) should be about 57 inches from the floor—but, all rules should be broken sometimes. So, here are some nuances:
If you’re on the shorter side (like me), nudge it up slightly above your eye level. If you’re taller (like my husband), nudge it down.
Above furniture? Aim for 6-10 inches between the furniture and the bottom of the artwork. Whether it’s a headboard, sofa, desk, or buffet, this keeps everything feeling connected.
Large pieces? Keep the top of the artwork below door or window frames to maintain balance in the space.
Considering decor elements? Think about lamps, plants, or statement pottery in front of your artwork. A slight overlap between a lampshade and frame can create a layered, intentional look.
Want help with placement? Let’s discuss it in our consultation!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, art should spark joy—so don’t stress! There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to frame and display your pieces. Trust your instincts, have fun with the process, and know that if you love it, it’s perfect.
Happy hanging!