Framing giclee prints: Techniques for a professional finish

Giclée prints are admired for their vibrant colors and high resolution, making them perfect for art enthusiasts and professional artists alike who want to display their work with flair. However, the journey from a bare print to a stunning art piece doesn’t end with the printing process. Framing your giclée print is crucial to its longevity and aesthetic appeal.

In this blog, we'll explore the nuanced art of framing giclée prints to achieve a polished, gallery-quality presentation. 

We’ll also provide insights into matting techniques that refine your print’s finish, as well as the choice of glass and protective measures to ensure your artwork stays pristine over time.

• Framing enhances giclee prints' aesthetic appeal and protection, creating a polished gallery-style look.

• Choosing the right frame involves considering style, color, thickness, and print size for a cohesive display.

• Matting techniques, such as selecting mat color and thickness, are crucial in elevating the print's presentation.

• Selecting the right type of glass, such as UV or non-glare, is vital for both the visibility and long-term preservation of your art print.

• Gelato’s custom framing options offer an easy way to produce and display high-quality art with precision.

A well-chosen frame acts as an anchor for your artwork and provides the necessary protection that preserves its quality over time. Here's a deeper look into its importance: 

• Protection: A strong frame protects your giclee print from physical damage, such as bumps, scratches, and humidity variations.

• Visual enhancement: The right frame can highlight the unique features of your artwork on a stretched canvas before hanging, serving as an aesthetic border that draws in the viewer's eye.

• Preservation: High-quality framing materials, such as acid-free matting, prevent the artwork from deteriorating, ensuring it remains vibrant for years.

• Investment: Proper framing is an investment that increases the longevity and value of your paper prints. Collectors often prioritize well-framed art for acquisition.

Choosing the perfect frame for a giclee print can elevate its appearance and offer essential protection. Let's explore the key factors to consider to achieve a stunning display.

Frame styles

Numerous styles are available, from classic wood to sleek metal frames. Classic styles often fit well in traditional settings, while modern ones can give a contemporary edge. Gelato's framing options include a variety of frame styles designed to complement any artwork. With predesigned styles, you'll find options that suit both minimalist and ornate tastes, ensuring your artwork gets the attention it deserves. 

Frame color

Colors can draw attention to the artwork and integrate easily with the surrounding décor. Choose a frame color that enhances or contrasts your new print for a striking effect. Gelato provides a spectrum of frame colors to suit every artistic vision—from bold blacks and whites to rich natural wood tones. Our color selection allows you to match your print's theme or the room's ambiance. 

Frame thickness

Thicker frames are known to add an element of boldness and sophistication, whereas slimmer frames offer a minimalist appeal. Gelato offers different thickness options, allowing you to choose what best complements your giclee prints. Whether a robust frame for a statement piece or a subtle border that lets the print shine, Gelato’s selection caters to any personal preference you have.

Print size

Larger prints demand substantial frames to maintain visual balance, while smaller prints can benefit from delicate borders. The right size frame complements the dimensions of the print and the space it inhabits. Gelato’s custom options allow you to match frames precisely to your print size. By offering versatile art print sizes, Gelato ensures that each frame showcases your artwork beautifully.

Now that you know what to consider when choosing frames, let's discuss the matting techniques that will elevate your giclee prints.

Mat color

Neutral colors like white, cream, or gray are versatile, allowing the artwork to stand out without distraction. For a more dramatic effect, contrasting colors (CMYK vs. RGB) can add vibrancy and highlight specific elements within the piece. Warmer hues evoke coziness, while cooler tones may create a modern, sleek appearance. Selecting the appropriate mat color complements the artwork. 

Single vs. double matting

Single matting involves one layer of mat around the artwork, providing a clean and straightforward frame. It is ideal for minimalist displays and works well when focusing solely on the artwork. Double matting uses two layers of mats, creating a more layered and sophisticated look. Double matting is particularly effective for highlighting intricate details or when showcasing multiple artworks together.

Mat thickness

A thicker mat provides a more substantial border, giving the piece a prominent presence and a luxurious feel. It also offers better protection by creating a greater distance between the artwork and the glass, preventing potential damage from moisture and handling. A thinner mat offers a more delicate and understated look, suitable for modern or minimalist displays.

Finding the perfect glass for your giclée print is important for its overall appearance. Let's explore various glass options below for you to choose from. 

Standard glass

This is popular for framing giclée prints due to its clarity and affordability. It provides a clear view of the artwork without altering colors, ensuring the print’s true colors are displayed accurately. However, standard glass does not offer protection against UV rays, which can cause fading over time. It is also prone to glare under strong lighting conditions, potentially affecting the viewing experience. 

UV glass

By filtering out up to 99% UV light, this type of glass extends the lifespan of your artwork, preserving its vibrancy and detail. UV glass is an excellent choice for valuable or frequently displayed prints, ensuring long-term preservation without compromising image quality. Although it may be slightly more expensive than standard glass, its added protection makes it a worthwhile investment. 

Non-glare glass

Non-glare glass is ideal for giclée prints displayed in well-lit environments, as it minimizes reflections and reduces eye strain. This type of glass features a matte or anti-reflective coating that diffuses light, enhancing the visibility of the artwork without distracting glare. Non-glare glass is particularly beneficial for exhibitions, galleries, and homes with abundant natural or artificial light.

Acrylic vs. glass

Acrylic is lighter, more shatter-resistant, and offers better insulation against temperature changes, making it a safer choice for high-traffic areas or homes with children and pets. It also tends to be clearer than glass, providing enhanced color vibrancy. On the other hand, glass is typically more scratch-resistant and can be less expensive upfront.

Now comes the art of positioning and securing the giclee print in the frame. Below are the best practices for a flawless and durable display.

Use acid-free backing and materials

Acid-free materials, such as mats, backing boards, and adhesives ensure that no harmful acids will migrate onto the print, which can cause yellowing, brittleness, or fading over time. When selecting a backing board, opt for archival-quality options like acid-free foam core or museum-grade matting. These materials protect the print from environmental factors such as humidity and light exposure.

Hinge mount for flexibility

This mounting technique involves attaching the print to the backing board using acid-free hinges, typically made from Japanese paper or archival tape. The hinge mount allows the print to slightly “float” within the frame, minimizing direct contact and reducing the risk of damage over time. This method also facilitates easy removal for inspection, cleaning, or repositioning without harming the artwork. 

Align the print carefully

Start by measuring the frame's dimensions and ensuring that the giclée print is centered both horizontally and vertically. Use a ruler or measuring tape to mark equal distances from the edges, ensuring symmetry and balance. Utilize a level or straight edge to check that the print is perfectly straight, avoiding any unintended tilts or skewed angles.

Avoid tape directly on the print

Adhesive tapes can leave residues, cause discoloration, or create permanent marks on the paper, detracting from the print’s quality. Instead of taping, use archival-quality mounting methods that ensure secure placement without physical contact. Employ hinge mounts or archival-safe adhesives that attach the print to the backing board from the edges, allowing the artwork to remain free from direct adhesive contact. 

Choose the right depth for the frame

A frame with insufficient depth can cause the print to press against the glass, leading to potential creasing or damage over time. To determine the appropriate frame depth, measure the combined thickness of the print, backing board, matting, and any protective glazing. Ensure that the frame's depth exceeds this total measurement to allow for adequate space and prevent pressure, especially while transporting it via shipping.

Use spacers for additional protection

Typically made from archival-quality materials like acid-free foam or sturdy matting, they prevent the print from coming into direct contact with the glass, reducing the risk of condensation, smudging, or sticking over time. This separation allows air circulation, minimizing moisture buildup leading to mold or paper degradation. 

Double-check for dust and fingerprints

Before securing the print in the frame, inspect both the artwork and the frame’s interior for any particles or smudges. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a blower brush to gently remove dust from the print and backing materials. Handle the print with clean, dry hands or wear cotton gloves to prevent transferring oils or fingerprints onto the paper surface.

The tips below will help you safeguard your artwork while preserving its vibrant colors and detail.

Avoid direct sunlight

To protect your framed prints, display them in areas away from windows or use UV-protective glass or acrylic in the frame. Consider using window treatments like blinds or curtains to minimize sunlight exposure. Rotating the artwork periodically can also help distribute light exposure evenly. By avoiding direct sunlight, you ensure the longevity and archival quality of your giclée prints. 

Control humidity levels

Fluctuations in humidity can cause the paper to expand or contract, leading to warping, curling, or mold growth. To create a stable environment, aim for a relative humidity between 40% and 50%. Use dehumidifiers or humidifiers as needed to regulate the moisture in the air, especially in areas with extreme climates. Ensure proper ventilation around the framed prints to prevent moisture buildup. 

Dust regularly with a soft cloth

Use a soft, lint-free cloth like microfiber to gently remove dust without applying excessive pressure. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh cleaning agents, as they can damage the print or frame. Consider placing the framed artwork in a location with minimal dust exposure, such as away from high-traffic areas. 

Use hanging hardware that supports the frame’s weight

Ensure that the hardware used can support the frame’s weight to prevent accidents and potential damage. Choose high-quality hooks, anchors, and cables appropriate for the wall type and the frame’s dimensions. If necessary, distribute the weight evenly by using multiple hanging points and regularly check the hardware for wear or loosening to maintain stability. 

Inspect the frame periodically

Check the frame for any signs of warping, cracks, or loose joints that could compromise its integrity. Examine the glazing to ensure it remains free of scratches, haze, or moisture buildup. Verify that the backing and mounting materials are secure and free from pests or mold. You can maintain the frame's structural stability and protective qualities by conducting periodic inspections.

Bringing your prints to life with the perfect frame can turn any space into a gallery. Ensuring your artwork is displayed at its best is an art in itself, and Gelato can help with just that. 

With our print on demand solution, creating custom-framed prints has never been easier. Offering a wide range of options—from framed posters to framed canvas—Gelato ensures that your art is showcased beautifully and securely. 

What sets Gelato apart is the variety and precision of customization. With over 140 production partners in 32 countries, timely and cost-effective solutions are guaranteed, reducing carbon footprint by printing near your location. 

Let your art speak for itself—sign up for Gelato today!

Do you frame giclee prints?

Yes, framing giclee prints are recommended to protect and enhance their appearance. A quality frame safeguards the artwork from dust, moisture, and UV light and adds a professional touch even when shipping paintings.

How to display a giclee print?

To prevent fading, display giclee prints in well-lit areas away from direct sunlight. Use sturdy frames with archival-quality materials to preserve the artwork. Consider placing them on gallery walls, shelves, or dedicated display cases. Be sure to use top printers to get the best art print quality. 

Should giclee prints be behind glass?

Yes, placing giclee prints behind glass is advisable to protect them from dust, moisture, and physical damage. Using UV-protective glass helps prevent color fading caused by sunlight exposure. However, ensure proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup.