Expert tips for a perfect display
The right frame turns a poster into the focal point of a room. Choosing it is a matter of balancing style, colour and material against the poster and the decor. A good frame protects the poster as well as making it stand out.
It helps to understand the different types of frame. Metal frames are sleek and modern and come in bright colours, which suit bold, contemporary posters. Wooden frames have a natural feel that suits quieter tones and classic subjects.
Size matters too. A large poster needs a frame strong enough to support it, without overpowering it. A small print or a piece of film memorabilia often looks best in a simple frame that leaves the attention on the image.
Look at the space
The wall
Measure the wall where the poster will hang, so that the framed size will neither look lost nor overwhelm it. A big wall can take a very large or panoramic poster. A small wall is better with something modest.
Think about height. Hang the poster with its centre at about eye level, roughly 60 inches (150cm) from the floor.
The room
Match the frame to the room. A slim, plain frame suits a modern setting. A wooden frame in a natural finish adds warmth to a traditional one. A metal frame in a vivid colour belongs in a lively, modern room.
The frame should never distract from the poster. Its job is to set it off.
Size and material
Matching the frame to the poster
Measure the height and width of the poster itself. Standard sizes such as A4, A3 and 60 x 40cm are easy to find frames for. Many posters, especially older and imported ones, are not standard, and need a frame made to measure.
The frame should fit the poster exactly, so that it lies flat. Do not trim a poster to fit a frame, least of all a vintage one, because that destroys its value. If you would like a border, add a mount, which makes the frame larger and protects the edges of the poster.
Wood or metal?
- Wood. Classic, and good with natural, earthy colours. Choose a moulding sturdy enough for the size.
- Metal. Modern, light and rigid, so it supports large posters well with a slim profile.
With a large poster, consider acrylic glazing instead of glass. It is much lighter and does not shatter.
Style and colour
Style
The style of frame should suit the subject. Classical art takes a traditional gilt or dark wood frame. Modern and abstract work, and most graphic posters, look better in a minimalist frame with a thin edge. Clean lines and simple designs show off the artwork without competing with it.
Colour
- White and silver. Light frames make a room feel brighter and suit airy, modern spaces.
- Oak. Natural and slightly rustic, and at home with many styles of decor.
- Black. Elegant and versatile. It gives a strong outline and makes colours stand out.
- Stained woods. Warm, and good with pastels and earth tones.
Choose a colour that either harmonises or contrasts with the poster, and keep the frame modest in width.
Finishing touches
A mount
A mount improves the look of a poster and keeps it from touching the glazing. A single mount is clean and minimal, which suits modern art and photographs. A double mount adds depth and contrast for a print you want to make more of. Neutral tones are usually best, slightly different from the paper of the poster.
Made-to-measure framing
For anything unusual or valuable, such as an antique map, a vintage film poster or a treasured letter, a made-to-measure frame gives an exact fit and a free choice of material, finish and size.
Glazing
Consider anti-reflective glazing to reduce glare, and UV-protective glazing to prevent fading. Poster inks fade quickly in sunlight, so UV protection is well worth having for a poster you care about.
EasyFrame offers a wide range of made-to-measure frames, and with long experience we can advise on the right one for your poster. 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.