Framed vs. Unframed Canvases
A canvas can totally transform a room, elevating your interior design from the every day to the spectacular. That is something that everyone can agree upon. However, the framed vs. unframed canvas debate is far more contentious. Let’s explore both sides of the divide.
The Framed vs. Unframed Canvas Debate
Choosing the right art involves a mix of both personal preference and consideration of your existing interior design scheme. However, once you have selected the piece that really resonates with you, there is one more thing to decide: should it be framed or unframed?
Before we explore and compare framed vs unframed canvases, we should quickly define both options.
The Difference Between a Framed vs. Unframed Canvas
What is an Unframed Canvas Print?
A printed canvas fabric is wrapped over an interior structure creating a solid faced and warp-resistant design, with the outward appearance of only canvas. The back is sealed with an enclosed back to keep out dust and protect your walls. In theory, this presentation style still has a “frame” of sorts. However, it is not visible to the observer. This method creates a look which resembles a traditional artist's stretched canvas and would be familiar to most people.
What is a Framed Canvas Print?
Our warp-resistant canvas is skillfully mounted within a 2-inch deep "floating" frame, resulting in a captivating "suspended" visual effect. This technique yields an elegant and polished presentation, enabling viewers to appreciate the art's edges while providing a framing that enhances the artwork without encroaching upon its front edges.
Framed vs. Unframed Canvas: Cases For and Against
The Case for Framed
Art has been framed for centuries, and for good reason. Here are some of the advantages of having a framed canvas.
Maintenance: A framed canvas will protect your art by safeguarding the corners from wear and tear.
Aesthetic: The right frame can really accentuate the qualities of a piece. While it’s something that you need to consider on a case-by-case basis, it can add an extra touch of sophistication to a canvas.
Cohesion: Frames come in a variety of materials and colors. You can use this to your advantage by finding compatibilities to the design elements in your room. For example, if you have lots of golden finishes or an overall glamor decor style, a gold frame can complement the look. Similarly, if your home is more industrial, selecting a black or silver frame can provide a sleek finishing touch.
The Case for Unframed
Framed art has traditionally been considered the best way to present a canvas. However, things have changed in recent years thanks to shifts in preferences and advances in canvas materials.
Embrace Minimalism: Stripped-back minimalist home decor is enduringly popular. Unframed canvases work well within the style by subtracting the frame and letting the art sing on its own. The style is particularly suited to abstract or postmodern works because it has a contemporary feel.
Adaptable: As we mentioned above, you can use a frame to help a canvas work better within specific decor styles. By the same token, unframed art gives you more flexibility to move art around into different spaces or design styles.
Cost-savings: Framing a canvas is an extra expense that isn't an option for everyone. If you just want the art to speak for itself, an unframed canvas is a great solution.
How to Know If Your Canvas Needs a Frame
Now that you understand the pros and cons of framing, it’s time to look at other things that you need to consider. Here is a handy checklist that you can run through to help you decide.
1. Style
Classical or traditional art styles look more polished with ornate frames. On the other hand, more modern styles, and especially abstract art, really work well with the canvassed look.
2. Placement
Do you plan to hang your canvas in an area with high traffic or a home with kids? Then a framed canvas could be a good choice to keep your art clean and pristine.
3. Budget
If you’re operating on a budget, but you find a piece that you really want, you can save money that you would have spent on framing your canvas. You can always get it framed at a later time.
4. Decor Style
Your existing interior decor style can influence whether you need a frame or not. Modern apartments accommodate the sleek freshness of an unframed canvas, while more classic rooms benefit from the elegance of an ornate wooden framed canvas.
5. Personal Preference
Art is highly subjective, and so too is presentation and decor. Trust your gut and make a choice that works best for you and your tastes.
Frame or No Frame Canvas: Which is Better?
As you can see, the framed vs unframed canvas debate is impossible to solve. It really comes down to personal preference, circumstance, and style. Try to imagine the piece in your space, both with and without a frame. Figure out which one you think looks best for your unique home and decor style.
We believe art wields the power to inspire, energize, and transform people and places. Our team of curators and craftspeople are passionate about providing art that meets your unique vision and style.