How to frame your art print
You’ve just purchased a gorgeous art print. You’re ready for it to adorn your space. But oh no, how do you get the print into the frame unscathed and in the perfect placement?
Don’t fear, with this guide, you’ll be a pro in no time. Let’s get into it.
Step 1: Don’t let it smell your fear
It’s okay. You’re the boss and it’s going to turn out impeccably well.
Step 2: Remove the back of your frame
You’ll see thin, metal strips peeking out along the edges of the back of the frame. Gently bend these back so you can free the backing board. You can do this with any tool you find useful - a 10c coin or butterknife tend to work well.
Pull out the backing board, the dummy paper (if present) and the inner frame so that you’re only left with the glass in the frame.
Step 3: Clean the glass
Often overlooked, yet crucial. It’s crushing to go through the whole process and then take a look at your work only to notice a hair or spec of dirt underneath the glass. Don’t let this be you.
Clean the glass with clean, dry cloth. Look closely for any dirt, smudges, dust or hair that may be resting on the glass.
Step 4: Place the inner frame
If your frame has an internal frame (piece of card creating an inner frame within the frame), place this facedown on the glass.
If you want your print to sit on top of this inner frame, skip this step. Instead, place some double-sided tape on the back of the print, positioned in the corners and/or edges (this will stick to the inner frame in step 5).
Step 5: Place the print
Start by taking a deep breath. You’ve got this.
If your frame is the perfect size for your print, all you’ll need to do is pop the print in and voila. Job done.
If your frame is oversized (i.e. you like space around your print before the edge of the frame), this will be a little bit tricker but you can do it. Keep in mind, you’ll need to ensure the print is level and centred before replacing the back and calling it a day.
To do this, place your print facedown on the glass or inner frame (whichever way you chose to do it in step 4). Using a ruler, make sure there is equal space above and below the print, and also equal space to the left and right of the print.
If your print is placed on the inner frame, hold the print in place and use tape (carefully) to secure it to the inner frame to avoid any movement. If your print is placed on the glass, hold the print in place and add the inner frame on top, ensuring to gently press down where the double-sided tape is.
You can breathe again. The hard part is done - whew.
Step 6: Check your positioning
I can’t stress this enough: check the positioning is correct before replacing the back of the frame.
Holding the edges of the frame and the print to the glass, carefully flip over the frame so you can see your work.
Step 7: Replace the back
When you’re happy with your work, replace the back of the frame. Make sure to securely bend the metal strips back to their original position, holding everything in the frame.
…and your work here is done.