Framing Artwork. You Can Do It Yourself!

It all started with my Little Bitty Landscape collection. One little painting turned into six, then prints were born out of a love for those little landscapes. Art, even tiny art, can make a big impact in your space, and if you don’t know already – I love everything about interior design, especially artwork. But original art can be costly, and if you are like me, you prefer a framed piece over a wrapped canvas. So, I’ve created the perfect solution, just for you! (And I’ve been framing my art collection this way for years!)

I’ve thought about this from the beginning. When I decided to create prints from my original paintings, I researched ready-made frame sizes and made sure to offer prints that would fit frames you can easily find, and afford. I am using a the KNOPPANG 9×9 frame with 5×5 mat from IKEA. But not everybody lives close to an IKEA, and when I can’t make the drive I check out Target and shop online. To help your search, you can find a list of standard frame sizes here. The prints I sell in my shop are always available in one of these sizes!

If you are worried framing is not the DIY for you – no worries. I’m going to show you step-by-step how to frame the art you love so you can display it in your home and give your space some wow factor. After all, it’s not everyone who has a Becky Reeder print in their home. If that’s you, thanks a million!)

If you’d rather jump to a great video about framing your own artwork, 20×200 has created a great video I’ve included at the end of the post.

The Steps

What you’ll need:

  • Your favorite art print from the print shop. Pictured are Rock of Refuge and Green Pastures.
  • Wall frame with hanging hardware. (Or table-top frame if you like!) Tip: look for frames with a mat included!
  • Standard-size mat if not included with your frame.
  • Acid-free, low-tack tape.
  • Flathead screwdriver.

1.

Once you have your supplies, you are ready to DIY.  If your frame came with a mat, go ahead and remove the mat from the frame.  Most frames come with back that is secured by tabs. Use your screwdriver to pry the tabs away from the backing so it can be easily removed. Remove the mat from the frame and grab your print!


2.

Turn the print over, painting side down, and place one piece of tape at the top. If it sticks to the table, it’s okay, it will easily pull up so that you can tape it in place to the mat.


3.

Turn your print back over, painting side up, and place the mat on top of the print so that it is set square in the mat opening. This way, you can see exactly how your print is positioned. Press firmly along the top side of the mat to set the tape in place. Turn the matted print back over. You should now be looking at the back side of your print and mat. Rub your finger along the tape at the top to give it a little more of a hold, then attach another piece of tape securely along the bottom.  


4.

You are ready to place your mat in the frame! But first, make sure your frame glass is free of any smudge marks or debris that might get in the way. Place your matted print in the frame, making sure it is right side up with the frame hanger, then reattach the back.

Now here’s the fun part! Find the perfect place to display your art, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the view.



Standard Frame Sizes

(View in landscape orientation on mobile devices)

Frame Size

9×9
12×12
16×16
8×10
11×14
11×17
16×20
20×24

Artwork Size*

5×5
8×8
12×12
5×7
8×10
9×12
11×14
16×20
*mats are sized slightly smaller
to accommodate the print size.


Video Tutorial by 20×200


Featured Print