How To: Frame Your Canvas Panel

So you’ve invested in a canvas panel painting! Congratulations — but, now what?!

Canvas panels (or canvas boards) are a highly-preferred option for artists who paint outside or appreciate the sturdiness of a board, versus the conventional linen canvases. But, unlike the framed canvases, canvas panels are not readily prepared for hanging, unless the artist has done the work for you!

So, here’s what you can do:

• You can contact the artist and inquire about adding a frame to your order! There’s no harm in asking and chances are, the artist will select a frame that beautifully coordinates with your new piece. Just be aware that it will be an extra charge and prices will vary depending on the size, finish, and quality!

• You can shop around for a frame on your own! This option is convenient for the collector who needs something that perfectly coordinates with their home/office interior. (See below for specific details about how to frame your piece)

• Skip the frame and invest in a tabletop easel. This is another great way to style your new artwork within your home. A tabletop easel is a convenient way to prop up your painting on an end table or nightstand for that one last piece that ties it all together! As stated before, you can ask the artist about choosing one for you and adding it to your order, or you can search one out for yourself that works well with your needs/preferences!

If you’re framing your canvas panel on your own, there are a couple of options to choose from:

• Floating frames - which are designed for the painting to “float” inside the frame very easily. These are used for both panels/boards and linen canvases.

• Traditional frames - these frames come in a variety of finishes, designs, and colors. The canvas panels are placed inside of the frame just as a photo would be, but you’ll need to exclude the glass (the oil painting needs to breathe!) and possibly the cardboard backing as well. It really depends on how much thickness the frame will allow. You’ll want to search for frames that have hanging mechanisms directly on the back of the frame itself. Here’s an example of a frame that works for me:

For this specific frame, I will leave out both the glass and the white mat frame which will allow me to insert the 11x14” canvas panel with just enough room. I will also add wire, tying it to the hardware, to hang the piece with greater ease!

This is a very simplified breakdown of what options are available as a collector of canvas panel works. If you’d like more information about anything I’ve mentioned above, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly!

Thank you for your support of my creativity and of my small art business,

— Jessica Hashimoto, Fine Artist