What is a floater frame?
This beautiful piece by Paul Weber (Trinity, 20”x24”) is perfectly finished with this frame. Note the 1/4” of space all the way around the painting, making it appear to float.
A floater frame is a frame that allows the art to appear to float within it. Rather than having an outer lip to hold the art in and backing to keep it in place, the artwork is attached to the back of the frame. The frame is evenly spaced around the artwork, usually 1/4-1/2”.
There are a few great features to framing in this style:
Low Profile
Floater frames are a perfect way to add a finishing touch to a piece of art without adding significantly to its dimensions. Most floater frames add less than 4” to each dimension of a piece.
Full Exposure
Some artists like to sign their work very close to the bottom or side of the canvas. Other times, there are details all the way up to the edge. Floater frames allow the entirety of the piece to be seen by not covering any of the edges with a lip.
The low-profile nature of this frame allows this Scott Hill painting to make a beautiful, dramatic statement. (Light, 48”x60”)
Subtle Beauty
There are works of art that don’t need much but a bit of a finishing detail. Floater frames are a perfect way to add that little touch without overwhelming a piece.
Note the Scott Hill piece to the left. The addition of the floater frame gives a perfect edge to the painting. The clean, subtle nature of the frame allows the painting to command full attention from the viewer.
Statement-making framing
Sleek? Yes. Contemporary? Yes. Now, we know the rules, so let’s twist them.
Using large-profile floater frames with works of art is a great way to turn a modestly-sized piece into a heavy-hitting eye-catcher, or to bring a more traditional look to a contemporary style of framing.
However you choose to frame your works of art, we have a wide selection of options. Come by at your convenience and we’ll be happy to guide you through your choices.