Free Delivery Over £50 * Most UK Addresses  |  Order Today for Dispatch On or Before Wednesday 8 October
Login |  Help

Common Mistakes People Make When Picture Framing: Tips for Better Results

When it comes to picture framing, people often make common mistakes that can detract from the beauty of the artwork or photograph. One of the most common mistakes is selecting the wrong frame size. A frame that is too small or too large can make the artwork look unbalanced or awkward. It's important to measure the artwork carefully and select a frame that is proportional to its size.

Framed Picture

Another mistake people make is selecting the wrong type of matting. Matting is the border that surrounds the artwork and sits between the artwork and the frame. Choosing the wrong colour or texture of matting can detract from the artwork or make it look unprofessional. It's important to select a matting that complements the colours and style of the artwork and enhances its overall appearance.

Common Framing Mistakes

When it comes to picture framing, many people make mistakes that can affect the overall appearance and longevity of the framed artwork. Here are some common framing mistakes to avoid:

Loose Glass

One of the most common mistakes people make when framing is not securing the glass properly. Loose glass can shift and cause damage to the artwork, as well as pose a safety hazard. It's important to use a proper framing method, such as a frame with a rabbet or a frame with a backing board, to ensure the glass is securely in place.

Matted Borders

Another common mistake is not using a mat board to create a border between the artwork and the frame. This not only enhances the overall appearance of the artwork, but also helps to prevent the artwork from touching the glass, which can cause damage over time.

Sellotape Tape

Using Sellotape tape to secure the artwork to the mat board or backing board is a big no-no. Over time, the adhesive on the tape can deteriorate and cause the artwork to become loose or even fall out of the frame. Instead, use acid-free tape or other archival methods to secure the artwork in place.

Brads and Glue

Using brads or glue to secure the frame corners can also be a mistake. Brads can rust over time and cause damage to the artwork, while glue can be difficult to remove if the frame needs to be repaired or adjusted. Instead, use a proper framing method, such as a spline or a metal bracket, to secure the corners of the frame.

Fastening

Finally, using improper fastening methods can also be a mistake. For example, using a nail or screw to hang a heavy frame can cause damage to the wall, while using a wire that is too thin can cause the frame to fall. It's important to use the proper hardware and weight distribution methods when hanging a framed artwork.

Mistakes in Hanging Artwork

Incorrect Height

One common mistake people make when hanging artwork is placing it at the wrong height. Pictures that are hung too high or too low can look awkward and unbalanced. A good rule of thumb is to hang artwork at eye level, which is typically around 57-60 inches from the floor. However, the height at which you hang your art may vary depending on the height of your ceiling and the size of your artwork. For example, if you have high ceilings, you may want to hang your art a bit higher than eye level to fill the space.

Improper Planning

Another mistake people make is not properly planning the layout. It's important to consider the size and shape of your wall, the size and shape of your artwork, and the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve. Before you start hanging, try laying out your artwork on the floor to get a sense of how it will look on the wall. You can also use paper cut-outs to map out the placement of your artwork before you start hammering in nails.

Overuse of Adhesive Hooks

Some people rely too heavily on adhesive hooks when hanging artwork. While adhesive hooks can be a convenient and easy way to hang pictures, they may not always be the best option. Adhesive hooks can fail over time, especially if the picture is heavy or if the wall is not a smooth surface. Additionally, adhesive hooks can damage the wall or paint if they are removed improperly. It's important to use the right hardware for the weight of your artwork and the type of wall you're hanging it on.

Faults in Picture Placement

Excessive White Space

One common mistake people make when picture framing is leaving too much white space around the artwork. While some white space is necessary to allow the eye to rest and appreciate the art, too much of it can make the piece look small and insignificant.

To avoid this, it is important to consider the size of the artwork and the space it will be displayed in. A general rule of thumb is to leave around 2-3 inches of white space around the piece, but this can vary depending on the size of the artwork and the room it will be displayed in.

Inappropriate Sunroom Placement

Another mistake people make is placing their artwork in a sunroom or other area with direct sunlight. While natural light can enhance the beauty of a piece, it can also cause fading and damage over time. To prevent this, choose a spot that is away from direct sunlight or to use UV-protective glass when framing the artwork. This will help to preserve the colours and quality of the piece for years to come.

Mismanaged Gallery Wall

A common mistake people make when creating a gallery wall is not properly spacing and arranging the artwork. This can result in a cluttered and unbalanced look that detracts from the beauty of the pieces.

To avoid this, it is important to plan out the placement of the artwork before hanging it. Consider the size and colour of each piece, as well as the spacing between them. Use a level and measuring tape to ensure that each piece is hung at the same height and distance from each other.

At Easyframe we are in the business of providing picture frames to capture your mood and presenting them in a way that can be enjoyed. We have many years of experience and provide advice on the best type of frames for your artwork.

You can contact EasyFrame on 01234 856 501 or sales@easyframe.co.uk and they'll always chat even if you don't want to buy!

Article Posted: 29/06/2023 08:58:59

Share post:
Software: Kryptronic eCommerce, Copyright 1999-2025 Kryptronic, Inc. Exec Time: 0.213513 Seconds Memory Usage: 5.96756 Megabytes
EasyFrame uses cookies to deliver and enhance the quality of its services and to analyze traffic. You can Accept or Decline the use of non essential cookies. Click Here For Cookie Information.