How to frame CE art and discounts from Bay Area framers

Carrots by Evelyn Reyes pop off the paper when float mounted in a classic white gallery frame.

You just purchased a beautiful piece of Creativity Explored artwork. You found the perfect spot to hang it in your home. But you’ve run into a bit of a predicament. How should you frame your new artwork? Do you want the frame to be black, white, wood or unique? What does it mean to float and mat? Why should you even frame the piece, anyway? 

We’re here to help. See below for friendly discounts offered by some of our favorite Bay Area framers and our five tips for framing your CE artwork.

To claim your discount:

• Your artwork must come from Creativity Explored to be eligible. You may be asked to show proof of purchase.

• At Underglass Framing, just show your Creativity Explored receipt and ask about their 20% discount rate. 

• At Framed & Matted, you can use code CE10 at checkout for 10% or contact them directly.

• At Simply Framed, you can use code ARTCHANGESLIVES15 for 15% off or contact them directly.

Five Tips for Framing your Creativity Explored artwork

1. Why Frame?

Most importantly, framing protects your artwork, and your investment, from the elements. A complimentary frame job can also enhance the appearance of your art. To ensure your artwork is preserved handle it as little as possible. Once your artwork is framed, leave it alone! Make an informed decision about framing the first time, and if you must re-frame the work, be sure to visit a professional.

2. Consider the Medium

Different types of artwork require different types of protection. In general, artwork on paper is more prone to damage. Watercolor, ink-based, and oil-pastel on paper should be framed in glass or Plexi and hung out of direct sunlight for the best protection. We recommend springing for museum glass or anti-UV coating if the artwork may receive direct sunlight or be in a sunny room. Other mediums, such as acrylic paints on canvas or wood, can be presented unframed and typically require less delicate considerations. Artwork with impasto texture or multimedia collage will be much safer from dust and moisture behind glass.

3. Frames for Days

Trust us. We know there are hundreds of different types of actual frames and molding out there – simple gallery frames, eccentric frames, minimalist frames. Whether you’re framing off-the-shelf or going for custom framing, ask a few questions: 

This drawing by Lance Rivers feels like a window when matted in a simple maple frame.

Will the frame draw attention to or away from your art? While a simple white or black gallery frame will work for almost any art, there are styles of work that could benefit from something more dramatic.

Just like real estate, hanging art is all about location. Consider whether or not the placement will get sunlight or heavy traffic. This may affect the type of molding and glass or Plexi you select. Also, consider if your frame will match other items on your wall.

A good frame is as good as its finish. Simple matte finishes are a safe bet, but glossy, metallic, or natural woods may fit your style better.

Frames can be a work of art too. Depending on your vibe, refinishing old and vintage frames can be an affordable and funky way to customize your display. Many frame shops will work with frames that are provided, but be sure to ask first. Go bold!

4. Floating or Matting

Matting is often preferred by professional framers and art-lovers, though it is ultimately up to the buyer. Matting can protect delicate edges and help keep paper artwork flat. When choosing your materials, many framers offer a preview prior to completion – be sure to ask before they complete the job. Consider using a mat color that is present in the artwork or a simple off-white for best results. 

Floating an artwork can enhance the presentation but this often comes with added cost. This approach will make the edges of the work fully visible and can enhance any unique piece of artwork. Highly textural and non-standard shaped artworks are especially impressive when floated.

5. Trust the Pros

Many times we are tempted to turn the purchasing of a new artwork into a DIY framing project. We highly recommend that you trust your local framing professionals to take the best care of your art and your investment. See what your area’s framing businesses have to offer, ask a local gallery, and #SupportLocal if you can.

If you want to explore more Bay Area framing options, feel free to reach out to our gallery team at gallery@creativityexplored.org for more recommendations.