You’ve finished a beautiful painting on canvas, and now you want to frame it. The problem? You’ve never done it before and aren’t sure where to start. You ask yourself so many questions. Do you remove the canvas from its wooden frame? What type of frames should you use? A traditional picture frame? Do you need glass? 

If these questions sound familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Framing a canvas painting can seem daunting, but it's a rewarding process you can learn to do yourself, with some guidance of course. Let’s walk through the logistics of framing a canvas.

Canvas Paintings Don’t Need Glass

One common misconception is that canvas paintings should be framed like photos or paper art—with glass for protection. In reality, canvas paintings are durable and don’t need glass. Instead, they’re framed using specialized methods that accommodate their depth and texture.

Standard photo frames aren’t usually designed for the thickness of a stretched canvas. Luckily, there are specific frame types made just for canvas paintings, and they don’t require you to remove the canvas from its wooden stretcher bars!

Types of Frames for Canvas Paintings

When it comes to framing a canvas, you’ll find a few key options to suit different styles and needs:

Gallery Frames

Gallery frames are designed to hold stretched canvases and usually come in wood or metal. These frames don’t include glass or backing, leaving the texture of your painting fully visible. They’re a classic choice for giving your artwork a polished and professional look.

Floating Frames

If you want to showcase every edge of your painting, a floating frame is ideal. This type of frame creates a small gap between the canvas and the frame, making the artwork appear as if it’s “floating.” Floating frames are especially popular for contemporary or minimalist pieces.

We sell framed canvases! Choose from 3 popular styles and six different colors!

How to Frame a Stretched Canvas

Now that we've covered the types of frames for canvas paintings, here's a step by step guide on how to frame it. For this process, you'll need:

• A frame with a rabbet depth that matches or exceeds the canvas thickness.
• Canvas offset clips or brackets.
• A screwdriver or drill.
• Hanging wire (optional).

Step 1: Measure Your Canvas

Before buying a frame, measure the length, width, and depth of your canvas. Most canvases are 5/8", 3/4", or 1 1/2" thick, so ensure your frame can accommodate the depth.

Step 2: Fit the Canvas into the Frame

Lay the frame face down and gently place your canvas into it. A proper fit means the canvas sits snugly within the frame without warping or sticking out excessively.

Step 3: Secure the Canvas

Use canvas offset clips or brackets to hold the canvas in place. These small, L-shaped clips screw into the inside of the frame and press against the canvas stretcher bars. Attach them securely but avoid over-tightening.

Step 4: Add Hanging Hardware

If you plan to display your framed canvas on a wall, attach two screw eyes to the back of the frame, about a third of the way down. Thread a piece of braided wire through the screws and twist the ends tightly to secure it.

We've included a video below for more reference. 

What About Unstretched Canvases?

If your painting is on a rolled or flat canvas, you’ll need to stretch it before framing. This involves attaching the canvas to wooden stretcher bars, a process that requires precision and practice. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, many frame shops offer stretching services.

We definitely recommend going to a professional framer for high value and sentimental pieces. They can help you stretch your piece and choose a frame that complements your artwork while ensuring it is securely attached. 

On the other hand, if you’re framing a piece with a smaller budget or you simply want to learn a new skill, the DIY approach is still rewarding and more affordable. 

Try it Out Yourself! 

Framing a canvas painting is easier than you might think, and it’s the perfect way to elevate your artwork. Whether you go for a classic gallery frame or a modern floating frame, the key is finding a solution that complements your piece and fits your needs.

Take your time, experiment with different options, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Once framed, your canvas painting will be ready to hang on a wall, where it can be admired for years to come.