Avoid These Common Framing Mistakes: Smart Tips for Stunning Custom Frames
Sometimes, after having a piece of art or a treasured photo framed, the final result can feel slightly off, as if something doesn’t quite align with the emotion or style of the piece. Subtle choices in framing can greatly influence the overall impression and harmony of the display.
Maybe the colors didn’t pop the way you imagined, or the frame didn’t quite match your home interior. It’s a frustrating feeling, especially after you’ve invested time, money, and sentiment into custom framing. So, what went wrong?
Framing might seem simple at first glance, but there are plenty of small choices that can make a big difference in the final presentation.
From selecting the right frame type to choosing the proper matting and glass, even minor missteps can lead to disappointing results. The good news? These mistakes are totally avoidable with the right knowledge and expert guidance.
Choosing the Wrong Frame Type for the Art
This is one of the most common and costly mistakes. Not all frame types are created equal. For example, a bold, ornate frame might overpower a minimalist sketch, while a slim metal frame could feel underwhelming for a dramatic oil painting.
Ask yourself: What feeling does the art evoke? What is the subject matter? Is it modern, traditional, playful, or moody? Let the artwork’s personality guide your frame type. High-quality custom framing allows you to explore different options like wood, metal, or hybrid styles that align with both the artwork and your home interior.
Tip: When in doubt, bring your art into our Broward County shop. Seeing it alongside our frame samples makes the decision much easier.
Ignoring the Power of Matting
Matting is more than just a decorative border—it creates space between the art and the glass, helps direct the viewer’s eye, and adds a professional finish. Skipping matting altogether or choosing the wrong color can diminish the artwork’s impact.
Let’s say you have a black-and-white photo. Choosing a white mat might feel safe, but a soft gray or deep charcoal could actually enhance the photo’s contrast and mood. And if you’re framing a colorful print, adding a double mat with a pop of accent color can make it really stand out.
Tip: Use matting to balance your art with your room’s color scheme. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your artwork “belong” in your space.
Using Cheap or Non-Protective Glass
Have you ever seen faded artwork hanging in direct sunlight? That’s the result of glass that doesn’t offer UV protection. Choosing the wrong type of glass—especially if your art is in a bright room—can cause irreversible damage over time.
UV-protective glass, non-glare options, and museum-grade glass are all available to shield your art while enhancing its visibility. The right glass not only protects but also improves the way your artwork is viewed, reducing reflections and making colors more vivid.
Tip: Think about where your art will hang. Will it be exposed to sunlight, moisture, or curious little hands? Your glass choice should reflect that.
Poor Size and Scale Choices
A tiny frame around a large wall or an oversized frame for a small shelf can throw off the visual harmony of your space. It’s not just about the artwork’s size, but how the frame and matting relate to the room they’ll live in.
We often help clients reframe art because it looked “off” at home. That’s why we recommend planning your framing choices with your home interior in mind. A frame that’s too small might get lost on a large wall, while one that’s too thick might make a simple print feel overwhelmed.
Tip: Take photos of the wall or space where your artwork will hang and bring them to your framing consultation. It helps us recommend proportionally appropriate frame types and matting styles.
Skipping Archival or Acid-Free Materials
Framing isn’t just about appearance—it’s also about preservation. Using non-archival matting or backing can lead to discoloration, warping, and deterioration over time. This is especially risky for sentimental items, vintage photographs, or collectible prints.
Archival-quality materials protect your art from acidity, humidity, and long-term wear. They’re a little more expensive up front, but they save you from having to replace or repair damaged artwork later.
Tip :If the piece is valuable—financially or emotionally—go archival. Ask us about our acid-free, museum-grade materials during your next custom framing visit.
DIY Framing Without the Right Tools or Know-How
We get it. Framing kits from big-box stores seem like a budget-friendly solution. But they often fall short in both quality and durability. Glass may shatter more easily, mats may yellow over time, and frames might warp. And don’t even get us started on the backings and fasteners.
DIY framing can work for temporary or low-value items, but it’s rarely ideal for long-term display. And let’s be honest—your cherished memories and beautiful artwork deserve better.
Tip: Think of custom framing as an investment in your art’s future. You wouldn’t put a valuable piece in a cheap plastic case, right?
How to Avoid Framing Mistakes with Our Help
At our custom frame shop in Broward County, we’ve seen—and fixed—just about every framing mistake imaginable. That’s why we take the time to walk every customer through the framing process, offering advice tailored to your art, your taste, and your space.
We’ll help you explore:
- The best frame types to match your art and home interior
- Matting options that bring your artwork to life
- Protective glass types based on where the piece will live
- Custom framing techniques that preserve and enhance every detail
Even better, we do this with a collaborative approach that puts *you* in control. You’ll never feel rushed or upsold. Our mission is to help you make informed decisions so that the end result is something you’ll be proud to hang.
Let’s Fix Your Framing Frustrations Together
Maybe you’ve already made some of the mistakes mentioned above. That’s okay! We’ve helped countless customers in Broward County reframe, upgrade, or redesign their art displays. Whether you're looking to redo a piece that didn't turn out right, or starting fresh with a new work of art, we’re here to help.
Stop by our shop, bring your artwork, and let’s chat. We’ll explore frame types, discuss your vision, and show you how to avoid common framing pitfalls. With a little expert guidance and a lot of creative collaboration, your next framed piece will be nothing short of stunning.