Show it Off! (a Guide to Framing)

Make it Stand Out

If you’re like me, you’ll hate leaving a job unfinished - particularly if it’s something you care about!

It’s such a faff to try to find a frame that fits, looks nice AND actually shows off your art in the way that it deserves.

Allow me to take one thing off your to-do list! Choose to have your portrait pre-framed so when it arrives, it’s simply ready to hang! I offer framing services for all of my artworks. Whether you’re commissioning from scratch or someone gifted you an unframed print - you can call on me to find the perfect frame for you.

Rottweiler Rotty Original Coloured Pencil Drawing by Alison Chinn
 

Keeping it Local

I love to use my local framer and glazer for bespoke commissions; both of them do wonderful work! I prefer made-to-measure services, as they’ll be handmade to fit a portrait perfectly.

With all of my artworks, I frame the piece myself in my little studio so my clients don’t have to. Plus, I know that my drawing will be handled with the utmost care!

I strongly recommend the use of UV-protection glass for works of art, our sun damages paper and pigments in the same way it damages our skin - if you’re fair like me you’ll know how this goes! Protecting your artwork from heat and UV is really important, so never hang your piece in direct sunlight or over a radiator!

 

Size Matters!

Choosing the perfect size portrait for your home is the first step for framing. You may not have done, but do consider where it will go. A statement piece at the end of a hallway? A cute miniature by your reading chair?

Having a place in mind will do half the job already - you know how big you can go! A mount and frame will add approximately 2-3 inches around the border of the artwork.

View artwork sizes on the pricelist…

Personalised Pet Portrait with Name Plaque by Alison Chinn

Personalise your pet portrait with a name plaque!

Available in silver and gold; ask me about adding one to your frame!

Don’t Skip This!

Often over-looked and disregarded, but the most important part of framing your picture is the picture mount. But what is it?

A mount is a card border that frames your artwork and keeps the original work safe. It provides a small gap between the paper and the glass so you don’t have any pigment transfer, and any condensation won’t damage the artwork.

But the best part? A mount makes your portrait look 100 times better! It’s elegant, it will draw the eye, it’s the cherry on top to your bespoke handmade commission. All reasons why I highly recommend them, regardless of whether you frame your work through me or DIY.

Smooth-Coat and Wire-Hair Jack Russell Terrier Pet Portrait by Alison Chinn

And Finally…

Choose a frame that will compliment your artwork. Luckily my interior design background comes in handy here! I can always advise on colours and styles to suit a portrait, befitting to your requirements and taste!

Factor your existing home décor; if you have a lot of natural wood, opt for a similar frame so the new art will fit right in. Or if you’re into modern rustic, a slim stained frame might be perfect!

Whatever you choose, it’s always ideal to match the frame with your drawn subject. For example, your black Labrador portrait would look good in a black, grey or even blue frame to pick out the pigments. Or, your green-eyed cat would suit a natural frame with a green tint.

Ask me about framing prices for your piece…

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Portrait of Neave (Human Study)

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How to take Photos of your Pet (a Guide to Pet Photography)