When it comes to showcasing your art, the right frame makes all the difference, but not all frames are created equal. Whether you're framing a textured canvas or a delicate print, choosing the best framing option will enhance both the artwork and the space it lives in. At Pictureframes.com, we're here to break it down: Canvas Floaters vs. Traditional Frames, when to use them, why they matter, and how to frame your pieces like a pro.

Framing Canvas Paintings: Why Canvas Floaters Win

If you have a canvas painting, whether it’s a bold abstract, a serene landscape, or your latest DIY project, you’ll want a frame that celebrates its dimensional quality without covering the edges. That’s where Canvas Floater Frames come in.

What Is a Canvas Floater Frame?

Canvas floater frames are specifically designed to display stretched canvases. Instead of covering the edges, the frame “floats” around the canvas, creating a small gap between the art and the frame. The result? A clean, gallery-style presentation that feels modern, polished, and intentional.

Why Choose a Floater for Canvas Art:

• No Coverage: Your entire canvas, brushstrokes, textures, and all, stays visible.

• Depth Matters: Floater frames are built to accommodate the thickness of stretched canvases.

• Minimalist Look: They offer a contemporary, sleek finish that enhances without overwhelming.

• If you have a rolled canvas, it is important that you have this stretched over wooden stretcher bars before it can go into a frame. We would suggest taking this type of art to a framing shop to have professionally stretched before you purchase a frame.

At Pictureframes.com, you can customize your floater frame to perfectly fit your canvas and choose finishes that match your art’s vibe, from rustic woods to glossy modern blacks. For best size results, be sure to measure your canvas from wrapped corner to wrapped corner to ensure your floater frame gives your art the perfect fit.

Framing Non-Canvas Artwork: Traditional Frames Shine

When you're working with flat artwork such as photographs, drawings, prints, or posters, traditional frames are your go-to. They protect and elevate the piece while offering endless style possibilities.

Why Use a Traditional Frame for Non-Canvas Art:

• Protection First: Traditional frames often pair with mats and acrylic glazing to shield your art from dust, moisture, and UV damage.

• Style Flexibility: From ornate gold frames to minimalist black, traditional frames can match any aesthetic.

• Matting Adds Impact: Mats add breathing room around your art, drawing the viewer’s eye directly into the image. Keep in mind that a mat will cover your art slightly to hold it in place. Measure the portion of the artwork or photo that you want visible through the window of the mat to get the inner dimensions.

With Pictureframes.com’s easy customization tools, you can create a complete framing package built exactly for your artwork’s size and style.

How to Insert Your Art into a Frame

No matter which frame style you choose, assembling your art at home is simple. Here’s how:

Inserting a Canvas into a Floater Frame:

• Center the Canvas: Place your canvas facedown inside the floater frame. Align it evenly on all sides to maintain the floating effect.

• Secure It: Using the provided hardware, fasten the canvas to the back of the frame.

• Adjust as Needed: Before tightening all screws, check the front to ensure even spacing around the canvas. Please keep in mind that the screws are placed into the wood stretcher and do not screw into the frame.

• Finish: Tighten all screws securely and add hanging hardware if needed.

For full instructions see here

Inserting Flat Artwork into a Traditional Frame:

• Disassemble the Frame: Remove the backing board and any protective film from the acrylic glazing.

• Layer Your Art:

1. Place the mat (if using) and artwork together.

2. Secure them with acid-free tape or mounting corners if needed.

• Insert into Frame: Place the layered mat and art into the frame.

• Secure the Backing: Reattach the backing board and lock the tabs or fasteners to hold everything firmly.

• Hang and enjoy!

If your piece is valuable or fragile, consider using a dust cover on the back for extra protection.

At Pictureframes.com, we make it easy to design custom frames that suit your art and your space. No matter what you’re framing, you can trust our expert tools and premium materials to help you frame like a pro, right from home.

Start Custom Framing Today and find the ideal frame for your art!