Whether it’s a tabletop frame, a wall frame, or an assortment for a stunning gallery wall, picking the right frames is key to nailing your room’s vibe. Size, material, placement—every little detail counts when it comes to pulling your space together!

In this blog, we’re sharing tips to selecting and styling frames like a pro - Happy reading!

Frame Materials & Finishes

Before we dive into our styling ideas, let’s talk materials. A subtle frame can play a supporting role, letting the art shine, while a bold frame can steal the spotlight and become a statement piece on its own. Either way, the frame should enhance what’s inside and tie seamlessly into the style of your space, creating a perfect balance between art and design.

Helpful tips to create the right vibe.

Thin Black or White Frames:
- Best for: Modern or minimalist artwork, like abstract pieces or photography.
- Why: These frames create a clean, understated look that complements the art without overpowering it.
Ornate Gold or Silver Frames:
- Best for: Traditional or vintage art, such as oil paintings or classical portraits.
- Why: The intricate details and metallic finish add a touch of elegance and grandeur, perfect for timeless styles.
Natural Wood Frames:
- Best for: Earthy, organic spaces or artwork with soft, neutral tones.
- Why: The warmth and texture of wood frames bring a cozy, grounded feel that ties beautifully into Scandinavian, rustic, or boho designs.
Bold Colored Frames:
- Best for: Pop art or playful, graphic prints.
- Why: A brightly colored frame can accentuate specific hues in the artwork and add a fun, energetic vibe to eclectic or contemporary spaces.
Metal Frames (Matte or Polished):
- Best for: Industrial or urban interiors, as well as sleek modern art.
- Why: Metal frames offer a streamlined, edgy look that enhances the clean lines and bold textures of industrial or modern design.
Floating Frames:
- Best for: Textured or dimensional artwork, like pressed botanicals or canvas paintings.
- Why: Floating frames create the illusion of the art hovering within the frame, adding depth and a gallery-inspired feel.
Oversized Mats with Simple Frames:
- Best for: Black-and-white photography or delicate drawings.
- Why: The large matting creates a dramatic focus on the artwork, giving even small pieces a sophisticated, gallery-like presence.

When it comes to sourcing frames there are a two options.

Stock frames: For standard size artwork or photos, stock frames are a great, more affordable option. You can find stock frames at various retailers and on Amazon.
Custom frames: If you need a specific fit or seeking a little more personalization then custom framing is the way to go. You can visit your local frame store or shop online at various sites like Framebridge.

Shelf Styling with Frames

Picture frames are a quintessential accessory for creating beautifully styled shelves. You can use a mix of table top frames (ones that can be propped up) or if size allows, larger pieces that can lean. Since shelves are ofen in living areas, this is a great place to showcase family photos or pieces that show off your personality.

Use these practical tips to help you style them like a pro:

Mix up the sizes and orientations: Combine large, medium, and small frames as well as a healthy mix of landscape and portrait orientations to create visual interest.
Mix frames with objects: Pair your frames with vases, books, or sculptural pieces for a curated, collected look. Bonus points if your objects tie into the colors or theme of your photos or artwork!
Experiment with color: Use frames in various finishes like wood, black, or metallic to add contrast. Or, go monochromatic for a sleek, modern vibe.
Layer it up: Don’t be afraid to overlap frames slightly—it adds dimension and makes your shelf look effortlessly styled.
Think beyond photos: Mix in art prints or other types of artwork for variety and personality.

Get more shelf styling tips in our 5 Tips to a Perfectly Styled Shelf blog

SHELF STYLING FRAME FAVORITES

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Wall Frames

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Hanging art on the walls (whether it’s a casual family photo or a piece of fine art) is one of the quickest ways to make your home feel finished and inviting. Artwork adds personality, creates a focal point, and sets the mood for your entire space!

Use these tips to hang your frames like a pro:

Plan it out first: When creating a gallery wall, lay your frames on the floor and arrange them until you’re happy with the layout. This lets you experiment with spacing and placement before committing to the wall.
Hang at eye level: Frames should be hung so the center of the piece is about 57-60” from the floor. If hanging a gallery wall, the center of your grouping should also follow this rule.
Don’t space pieces too far: When hanging a grouping, we recommend no more than 3-4” spacing between each piece.
Follow the 2/3rds Rule: When hanging a gallery wall or a single frame over a piece of furniture, you’ll want the entire grouping to be about 2/3rds the width of the furniture piece.
Mix sizes and orientations: Whether they’re on the wall or displayed on a surface, combining vertical and horizontal frames will add visual interest.

WALL FRAME FAVORITES

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Every Room is an Opportunity

Remember, artwork and frames aren’t just reserved for living rooms and bedrooms—they belong everywhere, even in kitchens and bathrooms! A beautiful piece of art or a well-chosen frame can bring personality and warmth to unexpected spaces, making them feel just as thoughtful and styled as the rest of your home. Think bold prints over the kitchen sink or serene landscapes near a soaking tub—little touches like these can completely transform a room. Don’t be afraid to extend your creativity to every corner of your home!

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