Material Composition and Durability
The first decision you must make is selecting the right material for your environment. Craig Frames typically offers options ranging from lightweight plastic and polystyrene to more robust wood-look composites and actual wood. If you are decorating a high-traffic area like a hallway or a child's bedroom, lightweight synthetic materials are excellent because they are shatter-resistant and easy to hang. However, if you are looking for a premium feel for a centerpiece in your dining room, look for frames with deeper profiles or those that utilize composite materials that mimic the texture of real timber. The weight of the frame also dictates the type of hanging hardware you will need, so always consider the scale of the artwork against the weight of the frame material.
Glass vs. Acrylic Protectors
A critical component of any frame is the glazing—the clear layer that protects your art from dust and touch. Many standard frames in this category utilize acrylic (often referred to as plexiglass) rather than real glass. Acrylic is significantly lighter and much harder to break, making it the superior choice for large-format frames or frames intended for areas where they might be bumped. The trade-off is that acrylic can sometimes scratch more easily than glass and may be prone to static buildup. If your priority is archival quality and preventing glare in a sunlit room, check the specifications to see if the frame offers UV-protective glazing, which helps prevent your photographs from fading over time due to sunlight exposure.
Style and Profile Depth
The 'profile' of a frame refers to the width of the border and how far it sticks out from the wall. A slim, minimalist profile is ideal for modern, Scandinavian, or industrial interior designs, allowing the artwork to take center stage without distraction. Conversely, a wider, more ornate profile can add a sense of traditional elegance or 'maximalist' flair to a room. Pay close attention to the depth of the frame. If you plan on adding a mat (the cardboard border inside the frame), you will need a frame with a deeper shadow box effect to accommodate the extra thickness. A frame that is too shallow will cause the mat to look cramped and unprofessional.
Sizing and Compatibility
One of the most common mistakes in frame shopping is miscalculating the dimensions of the artwork. Craig Frames offers a massive variety of standard sizes, but 'standard' can vary between different art mediums. Always measure your print or photo in inches before purchasing. If your artwork is slightly smaller than the frame, you can use a mat to fill the gap, which adds a professional, high-end look. If your artwork is larger than the frame, you will need to either trim the art or seek out a larger frame with a custom mat. Always verify if the frame includes a backing board to hold the art securely in place, as this prevents the image from sliding or tilting within the frame.
Mounting and Hanging Versatility
Finally, consider how you intend to display the piece. Some frames are designed specifically for vertical orientation, while others include hardware for both portrait and landscape mounting. Look for frames that include pre-installed sawtooth hangers or wire kits. If you are planning a gallery wall, look for frames that feature easy-open tabs on the back, allowing you to swap out photos quickly without needing specialized tools. The ease of installation is just as important as the aesthetic, especially when you are working with a large collection of frames simultaneously.
