Sizing, Matting and Framing Your Artwork

For Large Walls:

Aim for artwork that fills approximately two-thirds to three-fourths of your available wall space. This ratio helps maintain balance without overwhelming the room.
For a cohesive look, consider a large single piece or a series of pieces that, when hung together, fill the desired space.

For Smaller Spaces:

Smaller pieces can be perfect for narrow walls, such as those found between windows or in small rooms. A good rule of thumb is to choose art that occupies about half to two-thirds of the wall space.

Spacing:

When hanging multiple pieces, maintain a consistent gap of 2 to 5 inches between each frame for a unified look.

Purpose:

Matting serves to enhance the visual appeal of your artwork and to protect it by preventing it from touching the glass of the frame. It's particularly beneficial for delicate pieces like photographs or prints.

Size:

The width of the matting should be determined by the size of the artwork. Generally, smaller works benefit from a wider mat to draw the eye in, while larger pieces can handle thinner mats.
A standard mat width is about 2 to 4 inches, but this can be adjusted based on the artwork size and your personal preference.

Size:

The frame should be slightly larger than your artwork. If you're using matting, the frame should accommodate the size of the mat plus the artwork.
Ensure the frame depth is sufficient for both the matting and the artwork.

Color and Style:

Select a frame color that complements both the artwork and the room where it will be displayed. Neutral colors like black, white, or wood tones are versatile and tend to work well with various art styles.
Consider the decor of the room when selecting a frame style. A modern space may benefit from a sleek, minimalist frame, while a more traditional room might call for a decorative or ornate frame.

Modern/Contemporary Spaces: Opt for frames with clean lines and minimalistic designs. Metals and simple wood frames in black or white can complement contemporary art well.
Traditional Spaces: Classic wood frames with detailed moldings or finishes like gold or silver leaf can enhance the richness of traditional artworks.
Eclectic Spaces: Feel free to mix and match frame styles and colors. This approach works well in spaces that feature a variety of textures and colors.

Lighting: Proper lighting can significantly impact how your art is viewed. Consider using adjustable lighting to highlight your artwork.
Installation: Ensure that the artwork is hung at eye level for the average person, which is typically about 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center of the artwork.
Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different frames and matting options. Sometimes, the most unexpected combinations create the most striking visuals.