To fix the canvas with the painting on a stretcher and hang it on the wall – this option for decorating the picture is quite suitable for fans of a minimalist style in the interior. But often paintings need a frame, which is a kind of “clothes” for them. A well-chosen frame helps to make the appearance of the picture complete and emphasize the dignity of the work.
Let’s see what nuances you need to consider when choosing a suitable frame for a picture.
Choosing a frame for a picture: basic rules
Remember the main rule – the frame should complement the picture and at the same time not distract attention from the image that frames it. The image combined with the frame demonstrates the whole composition
- The width of the frame directly depends on the size of the picture. For miniature works, it is better to choose elegant baguettes. And overall canvases will look more harmonious in frames that are bulky in width.
- The color of the frame should be combined with the color palette of the picture and set it off. Frames in light colors (one tone lighter) are ideal for light-filled works. While dark frames (a tone darker) will favorably decorate pictures of rich dark shades.
- The material (texture) of the frame is usually chosen according to the style of the paintings, taking into account their cost. Inexpensive works in a modern style look more organic in strict plastic frames or frames with a metal coating, on which playful reflections appear when light rays hit. And more presentable classical works of art are «revealed» in all their beauty in massive wooden frames.
Recommendations for choosing a frame for a picture
In addition to observing the basic rules when choosing frames for paintings, other subtleties are also important, which should be taken into account due to the characteristics of specific images:
- A win-win combination for oil paintings is classic-style frames with stucco decorations.
- Small-sized images can be placed in wide frames if other paintings in the interior are decorated in a similar way – then they look spectacular.
- Still lifes, landscapes, ethnic motifs are best combined with artificially aged textures of matte frames.
- Paintings depicting the water surface are recommended to be placed in silver or golden frames, the brilliance of which echoes the painted sun glare.
- Modern portraits should be placed in frames of laconic design, and classic ones – in silver or gilded frames.
- Frames made of natural wood are suitable for paintings in both cold and warm colors.
- You can effectively decorate the picture by using baguettes from several (two or more) profiles of different thicknesses and widths. In this design, the inner frame, acting as a passe-partout, focuses attention on the picture and emphasizes the attractive appearance of the outer frame.
- Pictures with a stretcher are given solidity by deep baguettes – a classic design option.
Now, having familiarized yourself with the nuances of choosing frames for paintings, you can competently order a suitable frame for a canvas purchased for yourself or as a gift.
