Admit it: artist or not, you may have aspired to have your painting framed and displayed in your home that can start conversations when you have visitors. Thanks to Paint by Numbers kits, this dream can become a reality because painting realistically couldn’t be any easier. All you have to do is to have your own kit, and follow the basic instruction: to match the number on the canvas according to the corresponding color in the acrylic paint set included in the set. Everyone who tries Paint by Numbers kits and is satisfied with the result of their effort and the overall quality of the artwork ends up framing the canvas that are either gifted to their loved ones, displayed somewhere on the walls of their house, or even sold to Paint by Numbers collectors. While it is a common choice for most beginners to have their canvas framed through custom framing services done by a professional, it can be pretty expensive as some custom frames could cost up to $100 USD which is quite impractical, especially if you have more than one painting to frame. So in this regard, let’s tackle one of the frequently asked questions put forward by most beginner artists which is: how can I frame my canvas?
“How can I frame my canvas?” is one of the questions that artists ask themselves after finishing their painting. Framed paintings can create a good impact on your wall, especially if the painting is created by you. Picture frames allow you to hang your canvases while protecting them from breaking. It also contributes to the aesthetic quality of the artwork. Framing the canvas is the final step towards finishing your artwork. Many artists think that it is very difficult to frame canvases however, such is really not the case. You don't have to go to custom framing services that will break your budget to have your paint by numbers artwork framed because you can do it by yourself using some simple tools and supplies. Plus, the great thing about framing your canvas is that it's another skill to be earned! It may require some effort but at least you acquired a new skill that is fun to do and more cost-effective than the alternative option.
Stretching vs. Framing the Canvas? Are There Any Differences?
Before we go to the main topic which is to answer the question, “how do I frame my canvas?”, let’s have an overview of the differences between stretching and framing first since paint by numbers canvases are unstretched, meaning, they do not have any wooden or metal support on the canvas surface.
Stretching your canvas:
The primary goal of canvas stretching is to protect your painting from breaking and to prepare it for framing, but you can also keep it as is, depending on your preference since not all paintings are meant to have a frame as it can overpower the qualities of the painting itself. Some of us normally prefer canvas stretching since it's more cost-effective and easier to accomplish than framing. It's also much easier if you want to hire a professional canvas stretcher to handle the task but just like custom framing services, it's more expensive than doing it by yourself. Canvas stretching requires wood stretcher bars that will be added to the back of the painting in order to hang it directly to the wall.
Stretching your canvas can either be done before or after the painting process. Most artists prefer to have their canvas stretched first before painting so that they can put the canvas to the easel for a better painting experience.
Framing your canvas:
Framing helps you to maintain the painting for many years and adds refinement to it. It is the very final step of the painting process. Frames vary in form, texture, kind, and depth of framing materials (metal, wood, or a mix of both), which is why having your artwork custom framed may be quite expensive. Thus, you can also put glass in the frame to protect your painting even more, which is something you can’t do on a stretched canvas.
Choosing the Appropriate Frame for the Canvas
Make sure that your frame compliments the canvas and it does not overpower the painting. Remember, frames can either make or break your artwork so choose something that can contrast to the canvas so that it’s aesthetically pleasing to look at.
Here are some tips and tricks when choosing a frame appropriate for your artwork:
- Choose a frame that complements the artwork on the canvas rather than drawing attention away from the artwork.
- Do not select frames that are similar to the hues of the canvas.
- Contrast the frame style with the painting.
- Simple paintings look well in elaborate yet elegant frames (gold frames, etc.) while modern artworks look better in plain frames such as simple black frames or wooden frames.
Where Can I Buy Frames for My Canvas?
Many arts and crafts stores offer canvas frames but are limited in design so if you want to have a wide selection of frame finish, design, textures, and colors, you can purchase in stores that are specialized in selling frames. But, if you’re looking for a simple wooden frame that is very easy to assemble, affordable, classy, and perfect for any Paint by Numbers artwork, MiiCreative has wooden frames for only $34.99 USD each available!
The wooden frame features:
- A solid material made out of natural wood.
- Easy to build design.
- Simple instructions without the use of power tools.
If you wanna learn more information about MiiCreative’s Wooden Frames, click here.
How Can I Frame My Canvas?
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Measure the size of your canvas:
Typically, Paint by Numbers canvas are 40 x 50 cm or 16 x 20 inches. But if you have other artworks in mind to frame, make sure to correctly measure the size and write it down on a piece of paper so that you can purchase the right frame size. You can also bring your artwork with you for better accuracy.
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Install the canvas in the frame:
Lay the frame facing down on a flat surface, then insert the canvas, painted side down inside. When inserting the canvas into the frame, take care not to damage the decorative side. The canvas should be placed on the inside lip of the frame. Make sure that the canvas lies evenly and exactly inside the frame and not bulging outside the frame. Remember that each frame is unique; some will fit very securely, while others may fit loosely.
After making sure that the canvas has been placed evenly and nicely inside the frame, you can secure the painting using the canvas clips that come with the frame.
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Place a dust cover at the back of the frame:
Cut a kraft paper appropriate for the size of the canvas so that it will serve as a dust jacket at the back of your painting. Place double sided tape on all the four sides of the frame, about ⅛ inch from the edge. Make sure that the tape is placed in a straight line and attach the kraft paper.
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Attach a wire hanger:
Mark where the screws for the wire hanger will be placed using a pencil. Once done, carefully put the screws inside the marked points and make sure that it will not damage the canvas. Cut a hanger wire appropriate for the size of the canvas and attach the wire hanger to the screws tightly.
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Hang your painting:
In just four easy steps, you can frame your canvas by yourself. Now that you’re done framing, you can finally place it anywhere you like as a beautiful decoration for your wall.
