Affordable Art Framing Options for Artists

As an artist, presenting your work in the best possible way is essential, and framing plays a huge role in that. However, framing doesn’t have to break the bank! Whether you’re prepping for an art show, selling prints online, or updating your own space, there are plenty of affordable art framing options that maintain quality without the hefty price tag.

In this blog post, I’ll explore different cost-effective framing solutions and share my personal recommendations from my curated ShopMy Collection. Let’s dive into how to find the perfect frame without compromising your budget!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my recommendations. I only suggest products I personally use and love!

Why Framing Matters

Framing isn’t just about protecting your artwork; it’s also about enhancing the visual appeal of your piece. A well-chosen frame can elevate a simple print into a professional-looking masterpiece and help draw viewers' attention. If you’re selling or showcasing your work, your frame serves as the first impression, making it critical to invest wisely.

Here are some key reasons framing matters:

• Presentation: Frames give your art a polished, gallery-ready look.

• Protection: A quality frame keeps your art safe from dust, moisture, and physical damage.

• Complements your art: The right frame highlights the colors and mood of your artwork.

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But don't worry, quality doesn't have to come at a high price! There are plenty of affordable framing options that can help you achieve a professional look without emptying your wallet.

Affordable Framing Options for Artists

1. Pre-Made Frames

Pre-made frames are the go-to option for artists looking to save time and money. Available in a wide range of sizes and finishes, pre-made frames offer flexibility while still giving your art a professional finish. You can often find them in standard sizes like 8x10, 11x14, or 16x20, which are perfect for many types of artwork and prints.

Head over to my ShopMy page to check out some stunning, affordable pre-made frames in a variety of styles. Whether you're into modern simplicity or a vintage look, you'll find a frame that fits your aesthetic.

Pro tip: Stick with frames in neutral tones (black, white, or wood) to maintain a cohesive look across your collection. This allows your art to shine while keeping the presentation elegant and timeless.

2. IKEA Frames

If you’re looking for a balance between affordability and style, IKEA offers some great framing solutions. The frames from IKEA are popular for their sleek, minimalistic designs and are priced to suit any budget. They come in various finishes such as matte black, birch wood, and metallics, allowing you to match your art with ease.

Although the frames are cost-effective, their durability and clean design can transform any artwork into a professional-looking piece. They are particularly useful for artists preparing for multiple shows or bulk orders.

3. Custom-Look Frames without the Custom Price

When you want a more customized look but need to stick to a budget, ask your local framer if they have any pre-made frames made from leftover pieces of wood. Sometimes, frames use leftover pieces to create common size frames. Then, all you have to do is pay for the mat, glass, and backing. You can get a fully custom-look frame for around a third of the price of a fully custom frame.

Tips for Choosing the Right Frame

1. Match the Frame to the Artwork Choose a frame that complements your artwork's color palette and style. For example, sleek black or white frames work well for modern or abstract pieces, while rustic wooden frames pair beautifully with nature-inspired artwork.

2. Don’t Forget the Mat Using a mat board adds depth and sophistication to your framing. Mats create a visual break between the artwork and the frame, drawing the viewer's eye inward to the art. For affordable matting options, you can find frames that come pre-matted or buy custom-cut mats separately for a more tailored fit.

3. Consider the Space If you’re selling art, think about how your buyers will display the piece. Neutral-toned frames have broader appeal and are likely to fit seamlessly into a variety of home decor styles. However, if you're framing for a specific client, always consider their tastes.

Promoting Your Framed Art

Once your art is beautifully framed, it's time to showcase it! Here are some affordable and effective ways to promote your framed artwork:

1. Instagram: Share high-quality images of your framed work on Instagram, showcasing the details of both your art and the frame. Create Instagram stories highlighting the framing process to give potential buyers insight into the care you put into each piece.

2. Pinterest: Pinterest is an excellent platform for showcasing framed artwork in different settings. Pin images of your work displayed in home interiors to inspire potential clients on how your art could fit into their spaces.

3. Email Marketing: Send a newsletter to your subscriber list featuring a new framed collection or offering special discounts on framed pieces. Email marketing can be a powerful tool to encourage sales and bring more attention to your work.

For more curated tools and affordable framing options, be sure to check out my ShopMy Collection. It’s filled with everything you need to display your artwork professionally and on a budget.

Conclusion

Finding affordable art framing options doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or aesthetics. Whether you opt for pre-made frames, budget-friendly choices like IKEA or Amazon, or custom-look frames, there’s a solution out there for every artist and every piece. By investing in beautiful, well-chosen frames, you’ll not only elevate your artwork but also give your buyers a polished, professional product they can proudly display.

Take some time to explore framing options that fit your style, and don’t forget to visit my ShopMy guide to see the frames I personally recommend.