Filed under: Your Home, Living Room, Projects, Furniture
Artist David Marty's oil landscape, Veiled Valley, is highlighted with a flax-linen liner and a detailed wood frame. Photo: Larson-Juhl.
Whether you're displaying little Billy's latest pièce de résistance, or showing off an Old Master painting, selecting the right frame can be challenging. While most of us have little problem choosing the correct size (give or take a couple inches), if you're like me, a few of the other framing basics remain elusive, too. What about style? To mat, or not to mat?
We recently asked Steve McKenzie, president and CEO of the century-old custom framing company, Larson-Juhl, to shed some light on the subject. Here, he gives us the bottom line on custom framing.
How do I choose the right style?
"Always be respectful of the work of art: Frame for the work itself. After all, the main goal here is to make it look great regardless of where it's hung. A frame plays many roles: At best, it creates an interesting dialog with a room's decor. At worst, it can overpower or detract from the piece. But sometimes it's good to think outside the box. I love seeing contemporary works in old frames and vice versa; it brings a powerful energy to the work, and the room, you wouldn't necessarily expect."
A traditional frame pairs well with the modern Goldfinch Aqua, by Thomas Paul. Photo: Larson-Juhl.
How do I determine mat size?
"I generally recommend a 2 1/2-inch to 3-inch border around artwork, which provides breathing room, and gives the eye respite. Anything narrower than that looks awkward. That said, large mats often bring prominence to smaller works. A good rule of thumb? Make the mat 1 1/2 times larger than the width of the frame. And never, ever cut a mat that's the same size as the frame or the molding. That looks strange, too." Is a mat always necessary? When can you just skip it (if ever)?
"A mat serves three purposes: First, it shapes the way the eye sees the work. Second, it influences the way we perceive and appreciate the work. And third, it offers protection, structure and preservation. But say you're framing something that doesn't have much value per se, like a large poster. There, you could incorporate spacers [instead of a mat], which separate the work from the glass. [A mat is also considered a spacer.] Generally, most things need mats -- especially works on paper -- save for works with frames smaller than two inches wide. And you'll need linen liners [strips of fabric that act as mats] on oil paintings because you're not using glass. Without that protection, a mat will absorb moisture and get really dirty."
Can a frame ever be a statement piece?
"It's fine for frames to elevate a piece's importance; most people actually under-frame. And that sends the message that you're not proud of the work. Give it some thought: Ask yourself what the frame will "say" in the space where it'll be hung. A frame can make a big decorative statement, like a sumptuous Aubusson rug or a Louis XV chair upholstered in a wild patterned fabric. It's wonderful when a frame positively influences how you feel when you walk into a room."
When should it be something you hardly notice?
"Never! It's crucial. And if chosen correctly, it will always enhance the piece it displays."
What about hanging pieces together? Should all the frames match?
"With groupings, there should definitely be one unifying element. Maybe it's the same artistic subject matter, or the same color frame, or a similar frame finish, or mats of similar widths. Just be cognizant that each piece is cohesive with the next. It's definitely a challenge: Few designers can pull off eclecticism. But generally, using the same color mat on each piece always works well in wall groupings."
Any suggestions for framing on a budget?
"While I'm really inspired by the way department stores like IKEA have really democratized design, I'd still suggest going with a professional framer (unless you don't plan to have a piece for long). A good one will recommend budget-friendly alternatives that don't skimp on the quality of the glass and the mat. Maybe there's a similar, more inexpensive finish in one size down? Can we pass on the anti-glare glass? I like to think of a frame as the ultimate 'little black dress.' Choose wisely, and buy the nicest one you can find. With any luck, it'll be with you for a long, long time."