How to Choose the Right Frame for Your Paper Collective Art Print: A Complete Guide

Choosing the right frame for your art print is more than just picking a border—it's about enhancing the artwork, protecting it, and complementing your interior. At Paper Collective, we believe that every print deserves a frame that does justice to its design. Whether you’ve invested in a bold graphic like Bestiario or a serene botanical like fleur-acoustic-panel-235820">Le Fleur - Acoustic Panel, the frame you choose can transform the piece.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know: from measuring and matting to selecting materials and styles. By the end, you’ll feel confident framing your Paper Collective prints like a pro.

Why Frame Selection Matters for Art Prints

A frame does more than hold your print—it sets the tone. A sleek black frame can make a modern print pop, while a natural wood frame adds warmth to a Scandinavian design. The right frame also protects your artwork from dust, UV light, and humidity. Paper Collective prints are crafted on high-quality paper, so preserving their vibrancy is key.

Consider the room where the print will hang. A bathroom or kitchen may require a frame with moisture-resistant backing, while a living room might allow more flexibility. The frame's color, width, and profile all influence how the art is perceived. A thin frame keeps the focus on the image, while a wider frame can create a statement piece.

• Always use acid-free matting to prevent yellowing.
• UV-protective glass or acrylic helps prevent fading.

Understanding Frame Sizes and Print Dimensions

Paper Collective prints come in standard sizes like A4, A3, and 50x70 cm. Before buying a frame, measure your print accurately—including any white border. If you plan to use a mat (also called a mount), add the mat width to your total dimensions. For example, an A3 print (29.7x42 cm) may fit in a 40x50 cm frame with a mat.

A common mistake is choosing a frame that’s too small or too large. Always check the frame’s internal measurements, not just the external size. If you’re framing multiple prints in a gallery wall, keep frame sizes consistent for a cohesive look. For a piece like Doodle of a Doodle 06, a simple frame with a wide mat can give it breathing room.

• Use a ruler to measure print and mat together before ordering.
• Leave at least 5mm gap between print and frame to allow for expansion.

Frame Materials: Wood, Metal, or Acrylic?

Wood frames offer warmth and versatility. Solid oak frames, like the Floating Gallery Shelf - Brushed steel / oak, pair beautifully with nature-inspired prints. They work well with organic motifs and add texture to minimalist spaces. Metal frames, such as brushed aluminum or steel, give a contemporary, industrial feel—ideal for bold graphics or black-and-white photography.

Acrylic frames are lightweight and modern, often used for a frameless look. They’re great for high-traffic areas or if you want the print to appear to float. However, acrylic can scratch more easily than glass. For a piece like Fond Rouge, a sleek metal or dark wood frame can enhance its dramatic colors.

• Metal frames are durable and suit modern decor.
• Wood frames can be stained or painted to match your interior.

Matting: To Mat or Not to Mat?

A mat (or mount board) creates visual breathing room between the print and the frame. It also prevents the print from touching the glass, which can cause moisture buildup and sticking. For smaller prints, a mat can make them feel more substantial. For large prints, a mat can help focus attention on the artwork.

Choose a mat color that complements the print. White and off-white are classic choices that don’t distract. For a print like La Femme 02, a soft cream mat can enhance its elegance. Avoid bright colors that clash with the artwork. If you’re framing multiple prints, use the same mat color for consistency.

• Acid-free mats prevent yellowing over time.
• Double mats add depth and a professional look.

Style Considerations: Matching Frame to Art and Room

The frame should echo the style of the print and the room. For a minimalist Scandinavian print, a simple natural wood or white frame works best. For a vibrant, expressive piece like Fond Rouge, a darker frame can anchor the colors. Consider the existing furniture and wall color—a frame that blends with the wall makes the art stand out, while a contrasting frame draws attention.

Gallery walls often benefit from matching frames for a unified look, but mixing frame styles can create an eclectic, curated feel. For acoustic panels like Symphony 01 - Acoustic Panel, a frame that complements the panel’s texture is ideal. Remember, the frame is a supporting actor—it should never overpower the art.

• Test frame colors against your wall using paper samples.
• For a cohesive gallery wall, stick to one frame style.

Step-by-Step Framing Checklist

1. Measure your print and decide on matting. 2. Choose a frame material that suits your decor and print style. 3. Select glass or acrylic: regular glass is fine for low-light areas, but UV-protective glass is best for sunny rooms. 4. Ensure the frame has a sturdy backing and hanging hardware. 5. When assembling, use acid-free tape to attach the print to the mat (never tape directly to the print).

6. Clean the glass or acrylic before inserting the print. 7. Secure the backing and attach hanging wire or hooks. 8. Hang at eye level (about 57-60 inches from floor to center of print). For prints like Still Here - Folded Art Card, a simple frame with a deep mat can turn a small card into a focal point.

Framing your Paper Collective art print is an opportunity to showcase your personal style while preserving the artwork. Whether you choose a sleek metal frame for a modern look or a warm wood frame for a cozy feel, the right frame elevates your print from simple decor to a treasured piece. Ready to start? Explore our collection and find the perfect print to frame—like the striking Bestiario—and let your walls tell a story.