How to Frame a Canvas Art
Framing a canvas painting allows you to hang and display the art piece while protecting it. A frame can help your audience focus on your artwork when they are beautifully displayed in the showroom or even your home. Framing a painting on canvas can be a daunting task to many. There are lots of information out there on framing but here is a detailed way to frame a canvas art.
Materials Needed:
Go to your local art supply shop to get these materials.
- Mat – A mat should overlap the edges on the painting to serve as a border between the print and the frame, and between the print and the glazing panel. Mats are available in pre-cut form in most art supply stores but they can customize the size of the mat upon request. Mats are available in different colors and are usually 4- and 8-ply thick. I would suggest using a white mat since colored mats tend to fade.
- Backing board – A backing board should be acid-free. Use a backing board that is the same size as the outside dimensions of your mat.
- Adhesives – Use acid-free adhesives such as a brushed on adhesive or spray adhesive. You can also use a mounting film, or mounting tape.
- Glazing panel – It can be glass or acrylic. There are also plain and UV-protected panels.
- Frame – There are many frames available in your local art supply store which are made of wood, plastic, or metal.
Steps:
- Measure the length, width, and depth of the canvas. Use these measurements when buying your framing supplies.
- Draw the borders inside your backing board.
- Apply the adhesive to the backing board.
- Put your canvas print over the backing board, using the borders as your guide.
- To make sure that you’ve positioned your print correctly, lightly position the mat over the print. If you are satisfied with the position, remove the mat.
- Use a clean piece of paper and apply pressure to bond the print to the backing board. Remove the paper and check again the alignment of your print and backing board.
- While waiting for the adhesive to set, clean your glazing panel. You can use an anti-static cloth to remove miniscule marks, oils, dust, finger prints, etc.
- Put the glazing panel inside the frame, followed by the mat, and then the mounted print.
- Secure the frame and canvas with the clips at the back of the frame. Most frames come with a pre-attached bracket so you can readily hang it.