How to choose a suitable frame for our painting?


Few art lovers think about how paintings are created, on what basis frames are chosen, etc. That’s why at Colors of Life we have chosen to stop in more detail on the topic: How to choose a suitable frame for our picture.


When admiring works of art in museums or galleries, the frames of the paintings are usually not noticeable at all. That means they fit perfectly. There are special courses in picture design around the world, and museums have staff who specialize in this.


Choosing a frame in such a way that the painting looks as advantageous as possible is also an art. This understanding comes to art lovers when they become collectors and art buyers, and this is where the difficulties begin. A poorly chosen frame can spoil the overall impression of the picture, and a good one can make even a dull picture shine in a new color. Here are a few things to keep in mind:


How to choose a suitable frame for our painting 


The price of the frame must match the price of the painting. By the way, auction houses also deal in vintage frames. Real frames are made of different types of wood, and cheap ones are made of plastic, but they are not durable and unaesthetic. You don't need to frame an expensive painting in a cheap frame.


The frame is chosen, first of all, for the painting, but the interior should also be taken into account. When choosing a frame, you should pay attention to the following things:


the work itself, the general style of the room, other paintings located in the room, and their design.


The choice of a suitable frame should also focus on specific details such as:

ornaments, color, and advice on choosing a frame.

The frame should point out the painting, but not overshadow it. The painting is what is in focus, namely:


Ornaments - the large painting should be decorated with a large frame. Engraved ornaments or other types of patterns are allowed. Here attention should be directed to the selection of wide frames with numerous ornaments and decorative elements. Such should be applied with caution and a sense of measure. At the same time, a large expressive frame that draws attention to itself is often suitable for a small picture.


Color - Avoid colors that echo the tone of the painting if it is painted in ink. So, if it is a watercolor, then a white passe-partout and a frame are well suited if a charcoal or ink drawing is suitable for a dark, strict frame.


Tips on choosing the frame:


The frame protects the picture from external influences and also gives it a finished look. However, there are exceptions to all rules. So, sometimes a picture is hung completely without a frame if the style calls for it and the stretcher allows it. So, some large works of modern abstract art look better unframed. At the same time, the edges of the work, which are usually hidden by the baguette, must be covered with paint.


The picture is an additional element to any empty wall.


Therefore, choosing it should not be guided by personal taste preferences. It is necessary to take into account the decision on the style of the room.


In addition, the pictures in the interior should have a suitable frame. Plain wooden or white is suitable for still life, landscapes, and realism.


It is best to choose a frame from the color scheme that is designed in the style of the room. The picture together with the frame should be combined and in harmony with the overall style of the entire interior.


Paintings are works of art and must be framed with passe-partout. Such works should not be placed in ordinary frames.


Let's look at examples:


We can match the same picture placed in different frames.


In the first case, the wooden frame gives the picture a classic look and enhances its warm gold and red tones.


In the second case, the silver frame brings out the cool blue and green colors of the picture and gives it a more modern look.


Both options are acceptable. The choice depends on the interior and taste preferences of the owner. You can also find more ideas and guidelines at: https://colorsoflife.eu. 


Interior design is a purely personal activity, it should be based only on your own taste, because you will live with this picture, not someone else.