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What are Canvas Floater Frames & What Makes Them so Magical?

May 2, 2022

What are Canvas Floating Frames & Why are They So Magical?

May 02, 2022 / Decorate, Learn

A step apart from the classic picture frame, Canvas Floating Frames add a distinctive touch of depth and intrigue to prints and paintings on canvas. Used by professionals around the globe, this style offers a gallery-like aesthetic, enhancing and elevating a piece of art’s presentation. You’ll find them anywhere from fine exhibitions to museums to living rooms; this style is both luxurious and affordable.

So what exactly is a canvas floating frame, and when and how should we use them? Read on for all you need to know to get started!

What is a Canvas Floater Frame?

Canvases in Gold Canvas Floater Frames

Ideal for prints or paintings made on canvas, as in its name, a floating frame creates a “floating” effect on the art that’s inside. That is, the canvas appears suspended within the frame without touching any of the sides, adding a dimensional effect with visual impact.

When Should I Use a Floating Frame?

Canvas Painting in White Floater Frame

These picture frames are an especially desirable option for when you’re seeking a modern look, an upscale presentation, and/or a museum-like effect. They’re especially great for canvases whose art wraps around the sides, as the extra space allows for viewing the entire thing, sides and all – whether that’s an extension of the image or texture on your canvas. Overall, they’re a great way to elevate the feel of both the canvas art and the space around it.

How Do I Choose My Floating Frame?

Black and White Abstract Painting in White Canvas Frame

Floater frames are widely available in both wood and metal, so style options are plentiful. Whether it’s a natural wood style, eco-friendly barnwood, or modern metal, you’re sure to find a frame that matches your art’s splendor. As with a regular picture frame, choosing a material that matches the idea of the art (wood for landscapes or nature, metal for modern or minimalistic) plus a thoughtful color – if even just a hint – that you want to highlight may be the ticket. Whatever vibes with you and your décor!

When picking a size, it’s best to measure from the corners for accuracy, as the canvases can warp slightly. As far as spacing, most of our frames can be adjusted to a variety of floating widths, up to 1 ½” – just be sure to check the description.

How Do I Assemble My Floating Frame?

Canvas Photo Print in Grey Canvas Frame

Your frame arrives complete with hanging hardware. Attaching & assembly are pretty straightforward and can be done in just 5 steps! Here’s how to assemble a wood floating frame:

  • Lay the stretched canvas face-down, then the frame overtop.
  • Position the offset clips so that they’re touching both the frame and the wood stretcher of the canvas, at least one clip per side (4 total).
  • Insert a screw through the hole and tighten with a Phillips screwdriver.
  • Place hangers a third of the way from the top of the frame, and secure with screws.
  • Thread the hanging wire through each hanger, knot, and twist the remaining wire to secure.

How to assemble a metal canvas floater frame:

  • Insert 2 angles (included) into each end of the hardware track in the bottom frame section, facing each other. Slide both frame sides onto the exposed angles and lightly tighten screws.
  • Insert remaining angles into each end of the top of frame and lightly tighten screws
  • Insert assembled top section into the frame’s open hardware track and tighten screws, aligning corners.
  • Place stretched canvas face-down and lay fully assembled frame face-down over canvas; fasten canvas to floater frame with enclosed screws (at least 1 screw per side).
  • Thread hanging wire through each hanger, tighten screw to lock in place, and twist remaining wire to secure.
Moon Art in Gold Canvas Frame

VoilĂ ! Your masterpiece is ready to hang. No glass or acrylic front is needed, but keep in mind that a layer of varnish will keep your prints on canvas protected. Each of ours comes with a protective coat of fixative to keep it sound.

And there you have it – the mystery of floating frames, revealed. What canvas floater frame projects will you be working on? Tag us on your project on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #framingjoy and we just may feature yours! Happy floating!

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