How to choose a frame

Moulding parameters

Picture mouldings are typically sold in 3-metre lengths. When choosing, watch for these key parameters:

• Moulding width: the widest dimension of the moulding.
• Moulding height: the tallest dimension of the moulding.
• Rabbet depth: holds the framed item, glass and backing board in place. It also determines how much the edges of the artwork are covered.
• Rabbet height: especially important for artwork on stretcher frames and for three-dimensional objects (jerseys, beetles, etc.). If the item is thicker than the rabbet height, it will protrude beyond the back edge of the frame.

Frame types

We group mouldings into categories by shape and material. Pick directly from our range:

Simple

Profiled

Decorative

Unfinished

Aluminium

Basic rules for choosing

The frame should match the artwork in colour. For neutral tones choose white, black, silver (cool tones) or gold (warm tones). The frame and artwork should form a single whole, and the frame shouldn't steal attention.

• Graphics, watercolours, photographs: a simple frame or a combination with a mat.
• Abstract paintings: simple frames.
• Old masters: decorative, patinated frames suited to the style.
• Landscapes and portraits: profiled frames.
• Canvases: make sure the rabbet height is sufficient.