Mixing framed artwork in creative ways can be much more interesting than one large framed piece.  Odd numbers of framed art create the most pleasing effect.  It is important to create some unity in the artwork but make sure to have variety for more character, everything doesn’t have to match. 

Themed walls are often a good idea.  Grouping a series of family photos or all black and white images in multiple sizes makes a nice presentation.

When your ready to hang the grouping, cut pieces of paper the size of the frames and tape to the wall.  You can play with different layouts without making holes all over your walls.

Go ahead, get creative and have fun!

If you can’t see your artwork clearly because of the reflection in the glass or are worried about your artwork fading, Museum glass is the best option to protect your artwork or treasures.   Museum glass not only offers 99% UV protection but has two optical layers that actually bend the rays of light allowing more clarity in your artwork.  Colors will also be more vibrant without the reflection of light.

Two or more frame moldings can be added together, or “stacked”, to create a profile unique to your work.

Never use regular cardboard as a backing material. Cardboard is highly acidic and will damage artwork over time. Foam core or archival corrugated backing materials are the preferred backing material.

When cleaning your framed picture, don’t spray cleaner directly on the glass. The excess can wick under the frame and cause damage to your work.

Use only an ammonia-free glass cleaner. This is especially important if you have Anti-Reflective glass such as museum glass.  A new recommended glass cleaner is 50% water, 50% isopropyl alcohol.  Simply spray the mixture on a towel and wipe the glass.

Custom Framing can transform your walls.  Artwork brings a room alive complimenting your furnishing, your lifestyle and your home.

In the past, artwork was always framed for the art.  A new trend in framing  is to also consider the style of a room, color scheme, lighting and scale of the furniture.  A simple white mat and thin frame may be appropriate in a grouping of art or photography but will be out of scale and not offer enough visual weight above a large over stuffed couch.

Designers at Downeast Art & Framing can help give great design advice for the best way to present your art and transform your living or office space.