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5 Things To Know About Framing Acrylic Artwork

March 27, 2025

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Acrylic paintings are captivating. With their extravagant detail and fine paint strokes, it’s important to preserve these paintings in sturdy frames that protect them from damage and dust. Here are five things to know about framing acrylic artwork.


1. Understanding Acrylic as an Art Medium

Acrylic paints are an easy medium for artists to work with. Their versatile nature creates vibrant pieces that you can use to decorate your home.


The Versatility of Acrylic Paints

Known for their quick-drying nature and adaptability, acrylic paints allow artists to create numerous effects, from bold strokes to soft blends. Because acrylic paints are water-based, they can mimic watercolor effects or produce opaque, textured finishes. If you’re looking to bring a pop of color to your living room or cultivate a serene vibe in the guest bathroom, you can achieve a cohesive look with acrylic paintings.


The Importance of Proper Framing

Painters typically use acrylics on canvas, which can stretch, warp, or sag over time. A sturdy, well-designed frame prevents these issues and protects against external elements like dust, sunlight, and moisture. Framing your artwork also reduces maintenance so you can focus on appreciating your art.


2. Choosing the Right Frame for Your Acrylics

Many contemporary artists use unique techniques in their paintings. They might alter the size of their borders or use the paint to add dimension and thickness to their work. Acrylic paintings have one-of-a-kind attributes. While this makes your artwork stand out, it also means you might need some help choosing the right frames for your pieces.


Matching Frames to Your Decor Style

Many homeowners pick artwork with an interior design style in mind. To complete the look, incorporate a frame that complements the other decor and furniture in your home.


For example, if you’re aiming for a modern, minimalist look, look for clean-lined frames in neutral colors like black or white. For antique styles, intricate gold or wooden frames can bring sophistication to your home. By aligning the frame style with both the painting and its surroundings, you create harmony between art and the environment.



Frame Size Considerations

When choosing a frame, pay careful attention to the dimensions of your artwork. Some oversized frames can leave gaps in the borders for a small canvas, while smaller frames might not provide the necessary support for larger pieces. Aim for proportionality to keep the focus on the artwork.

5 Things To Know About Framing Acrylic Artwork

3. Protecting Your Acrylics With Quality Materials

A high-quality frame protects your artwork from dust and debris, but what about other forms of wear and tear? Your frame is the first layer of defense, but additional barriers like conservation and museum-grade acrylic will increase the longevity of your paintings. Acrylic barriers protect your artwork in bright rooms with lots of sunlight that may otherwise fade the artwork.


The Benefits of UV-Protective Acrylic

Both conservation and museum-grade acrylic, like Optium, are durable and shatter resistant. Museum-grade acrylic in particular contains antireflective properties that provide clarity to your artwork. Acrylic barriers are a worthy investment when framing your pieces.


Using Spacers To Prevent Damage

When framing your acrylic painting, you want to avoid contact between the barrier and the paint. Without this separation, the barrier could harm the artwork’s delicate surface and cause scratches or warping. To prevent damage, use spacers to create a small gap that allows air circulation and minimizes condensation.


4. Custom Framing vs. Prefabricated Frames

While most artists will use standard sizing for acrylic artwork, others may choose to incorporate round canvases or break-off corners to better showcase their artwork. For unique canvases, you may need a custom frame to match its dimensions.


Advantages of Custom Framing

Prefabricated frames have precise measurements and often offer little wiggle room for flexibility. Custom framing can meet the requirements of your piece and include features to preserve the work. With a custom frame, you’re in full control of the materials, design, and aesthetics of the piece.



Cost Considerations

Custom frames are more expensive as they provide long-term value and better protection for your acrylics. If you’re on a tight budget, you may have to settle with a traditional frame. Balance your priorities, and consider the costs of custom framing before making your decision.

5 Things To Know About Framing Acrylic Artwork

5. Hanging and Displaying Framed Acrylics

The last thing to consider when framing acrylic artwork is where it will stand out amongst your other decor. Once you’ve framed your painting, you must find the perfect spot to hang it in your home. Keep in mind its weight and size as you assess your walls and move furniture.



Secure Hanging Methods

Properly hanging your framed acrylic painting protects your painting and your walls. Use heavy-duty hooks or brackets designed for the frame’s weight and keep the painting stable. If you need to, use a level and measuring tape to mount the hooks at the right distance and elevation.


Picture-hanging wires or D-rings are also secure options for large or heavy frames. Once everything is secured to your wall, take a step back, and check that it’s level. Adjust as necessary, and then admire your newly framed artwork!


Optimal Display Lighting

Choose the right lighting to set the mood around your extravagant acrylic pieces. For example, you can angle small spotlights on the artwork to make vivid colors stand out. Aim for soft, focused lighting to highlight the art without causing glare.


LED lights are the best bulbs to use for your acrylic spotlights. They emit less heat and UV rays than traditional bulbs and provide a safer environment for your framed acrylic. Install these light fixtures underneath or above the art to cast dramatic shadows, or position them to illuminate the art piece diagonally for a more balanced look.


Decorate your home with artwork that defines your personality and character. You can choose from a variety of acrylic painting styles, like vibrant abstract pieces or expansive landscapes. Invest in a beautiful acrylic painting to enhance your interior decor and make your home more welcoming.


Once you pick out the perfect acrylic painting for your living room, bedroom, or bathroom, get custom artwork framing to preserve the fine details of the artwork. Custom framing provides accurate measurements and materials to secure your piece. Get in touch with our team at Complete Pictures to find the perfect frames today!

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