How To Frame A Print Without Glass: Displaying Art

Framing a print without glass can offer a modern touch to displaying art. Traditional glass framing methods can be heavy, fragile, and impede viewing with reflections. By using alternative materials and techniques, you can achieve a clean and updated look to your artwork while still protecting it from environmental damage.

One option is to mount the artwork on an archival wooden art panel and seal it with a UV- and moisture-resistant coating, eliminating the need for glass. This can then be placed in a simple black wooden float frame. Another option is to wrap-stretch the print over a rigid support, such as a wooden frame, and secure it with staples or a linen border. Additionally, you can consider open frames or banner-style display methods. It is important to choose materials that are archival and suitable for your specific artwork.

Key Takeaways:

• Traditional glass framing methods can be heavy, fragile, and result in reflections on the glass surface.
• Mounting a print on an archival wooden art panel and sealing it with a UV- and moisture-resistant coating can eliminate the need for glass.
• Wrap-stretching a print over a rigid support can provide a taut and secure display without glass.
• Consider open frames or banner-style display methods as alternative glass-free options.
• Choose materials that are archival and suitable for long-term preservation of your artwork.

Why Frame Without Glass?

Framing a print without glass offers several benefits. Traditional glass framing methods can be heavy, fragile, and impede viewing with reflections on the glass surface. By opting for glass-free framing, you can achieve a clean and contemporary look to your artwork. The absence of glass also makes the artwork lightweight and easier to transport and display. Additionally, without the barrier of glass, viewers can have a direct and unobstructed view of the artwork, allowing them to fully appreciate the details and textures. Glass-free framing methods can also be a more affordable option, as they eliminate the need for expensive UV-blocking glazing.

When you frame without glass, you create a clean and contemporary look for your artwork. Traditional glass framing methods can sometimes take away from the aesthetic appeal of the artwork. With glass-free framing, you can showcase your print in a way that enhances its beauty and uniqueness. There are several framing techniques and materials available that can help you achieve this clean and contemporary look. Whether you choose to mount your print on an archival wooden panel or wrap-stretch it over a rigid support, you can create a minimalist and stylish presentation for your artwork.

“The absence of glass also makes the artwork lightweight and easier to transport and display.”

Another advantage of framing without glass is the elimination of reflections. Reflections can be distracting and take away from the viewing experience. With glass-free framing, you can enjoy a clear and unobstructed view of your artwork, allowing you to fully appreciate the details, textures, and colors. Whether it’s a vibrant print or a delicate illustration, the absence of reflections ensures that the artwork is the focal point.

Glass-free framing methods also provide the benefit of lightweight and portable artwork. Traditional glass frames can add unnecessary weight, making it more challenging to move or hang the artwork. By framing without glass, you can make your artwork easier to handle and display in various locations. Whether you’re exhibiting at an art fair or hanging the artwork in your home, the lightweight nature of a glass-free frame allows for greater flexibility.

To summarize, framing a print without glass offers a range of benefits, including a clean and contemporary look, no reflections, and lightweight and portable artwork. By embracing modern framing methods and materials, you can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your artwork while ensuring its protection and longevity.

Benefits of Glass-Free Framing:

1. Modern and contemporary look
2. No reflections, allowing for an unobstructed view
3. Lightweight and portable artwork
4. Affordability by eliminating the need for expensive UV-blocking glazing

How To Frame Without Glass

Framing a print without glass requires careful attention to materials and techniques. There are two main methods for achieving a glass-free frame: mounting the print on an archival wooden art panel or wrap-stretching it over a rigid support.

Method 1: Mounting on an Archival Wooden Art Panel

To begin, gather the necessary materials:

• An archival wooden art panel
• An adhesive or gel medium suitable for mounting artwork
• A brush or roller for applying the adhesive
• A print to be framed
• A UV- and moisture-resistant varnish
• A brush for varnishing

Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the wooden art panel by sanding it lightly and ensuring it is clean and free from dust.
2. Apply a layer of adhesive or gel medium evenly onto the panel using a brush or roller.
3. Carefully place the print onto the adhesive, ensuring it is centered and aligned.
4. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles using gentle pressure and a soft cloth.
5. Allow the adhesive to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Apply a layer of UV- and moisture-resistant varnish over the print using a brush, ensuring full coverage.
7. Allow the varnish to dry thoroughly before handling or framing the artwork.

By mounting the print on an archival wooden art panel and sealing it with a protective varnish, you can create a glass-free frame that protects the artwork from environmental damage while providing a sleek and modern aesthetic.

Method 2: Wrap-Stretching over a Rigid Support

This method offers a more minimalist approach to framing without glass. Here are the materials you will need:

• A rigid support, such as a wooden frame or stretcher bars
• A staple gun or upholstery tacks
• A linen border (optional)
• A print to be framed

Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the rigid support by ensuring it is clean and free from any obstructions.
2. Place the print on top of the support, ensuring it is centered and aligned.
3. If desired, attach a linen border around the edges of the print using a staple gun or upholstery tacks.
4. Starting from one corner, secure the print to the support using staples or tacks, pulling it taut as you go.
5. Continue stapling or tacking along each side, ensuring the print remains consistently tensioned.
6. Trim any excess print or linen border, if necessary.

This wrap-stretching method creates a frameless display that emphasizes the artwork and eliminates the need for glass. The result is a lightweight, modern, and clean look.

Conclusion

Framing a print without glass offers a myriad of creative display options while ensuring the protection of your artwork. By utilizing modern and lightweight framing methods, such as mounting on an archival art panel or wrap-stretching, you can achieve a clean and contemporary look that will truly showcase the beauty of your prints.

When choosing how to frame without glass, it is crucial to consider the specific needs of your artwork. Selecting materials that are archival and suitable for long-term preservation is key in protecting your valuable pieces for years to come. Whether you opt for a mounted art panel or a wrap-stretched canvas, these glass-free framing techniques offer a streamlined and elegant display solution.

With the weight and glare of glass eliminated, viewers can fully appreciate the intricate details and textures of your prints. The absence of glass also makes your artwork lightweight and portable, allowing you to easily transport and display your pieces in various locations.

Embrace the possibilities of glass-free framing to showcase your artwork in a modern and creative way. By exploring alternative materials and techniques, you can achieve a contemporary aesthetic while ensuring the long-term preservation of your prints. Choose the framing method that best suits your needs and watch as your artwork takes center stage, captivating viewers with its beauty and craftsmanship.

Source Links

• https://karenrichardson.ca/blogs/earthbound-artist/framing-watercolours-without-glass
• https://www.silkpainters.org/howto.php?WID=10
• https://forum.luminous-landscape.com/index.php?topic=93681.0