What it is for, and why you might want one
A box frame is a frame with depth. An ordinary frame presses a picture flat against the glass. A box frame leaves a space behind the glazing, which creates a three-dimensional setting and makes room for things that are not flat.
Box frames suit anyone who wants a display with presence, because the depth draws attention to whatever is inside. They are sturdy, they come in many designs, and they fit most styles of room.
From sleek and modern to rustic, a box frame gives a fresh look to a wall, and it is a stylish way to make a personal present.
How a box frame is made
A box frame uses a deeper moulding than a standard frame. Inside, spacers hidden behind the lip of the frame hold the glazing away from the backing board. The contents are fixed to the backing, or to a mount in front of it, and sit in the space between.
The result protects its contents from dust and handling while leaving them clearly visible.
Shallow and deep
- Shallow box frames. A small gap between the glazing and the picture. Used for photographs and prints, to give them a sense of depth and a shadow line.
- Deep box frames. Several centimetres of space, for keepsakes and three-dimensional objects.
What can go in a box frame
Objects
Box frames are made for things with depth: sports shirts, medals, baby shoes, wedding flowers, shells from a holiday, a child's first model. A treasured object becomes a display, and a conversation piece, and it is protected from dust and damage.
Photographs and artwork
A box frame gives a photograph or a print a stylish twist. The picture sits back from the glazing, or is raised forward from the backing, and the shadow it casts adds depth. Collages and layered paper art, which stand proud of the surface, need a box frame.
A mount can be used inside a box frame as in any other, to surround the picture and draw the eye to it.
Choosing and customising
The right box frame
- Depth. This comes first. Measure the thickest thing you want to display and allow a little extra, so that nothing touches the glazing.
- Size. Lay out the contents and measure the arrangement, leaving space around it.
- Material and finish. Wood is the usual choice. Black gives a strong contrast, white is clean and modern, and natural wood is warm.
Making it your own
- A coloured mount or backing. Pick up a colour from the contents or from the room.
- A double mount. Two layers add emphasis to a special picture.
- Size and shape. A frame made to measure fits the exact item, whatever it is.
Our online frame designer lets you choose everything from the mount to the backing colour, so each box frame is made for what goes in it.
EasyFrame offers a wide range of made-to-measure frames, and with long experience we can advise on the right box frame for your item. Call us on 01234 856 501 or email sales@easyframe.co.uk. We are always happy to talk, whether or not you want to buy.