{"id":29128,"date":"2025-03-26T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-03-26T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.frameiteasy.com\/learn\/?p=29128"},"modified":"2025-09-04T11:14:11","modified_gmt":"2025-09-04T15:14:11","slug":"framing-rules-to-break","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.frameiteasy.com\/learn\/framing-rules-to-break\/","title":{"rendered":"Framing Rules Meant to Be Broken: Ditch the Norms and Do You"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Framing rules are meant to be broken! We said it. Interior design is often seen as a precise art with strict guidelines, but some of the best design moments come from breaking the rules. Whether you’re framing your own artwork, photography, or a cherished family recipe, these so-called “rules” were made to be challenged. Here are five traditional framing standards you might want to rethink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"colorful<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"custom<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"thin<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

1. Matching the Frame to the Art Style<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s common advice: classic paintings should have ornate, gilded frames<\/a>, and black-and-white photography should stick to minimalist black picture frames. But sometimes, we need to loosen up a little<\/strong> by mixing styles to create the best results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe this is a little out of your comfort zone. But, try framing a watercolor in a bold, modern metal picture frame<\/a>, or choose an abstract print with a vintage-inspired frame. This unexpected contrast adds personality and depth to a piece, making it even more of a conversation starter. The key here is to find balance\u2014let the frame and the art complement each other rather than compete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"ornate<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"navy<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

2. Always Use a White Mat…NOT!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

SNOOOOZE<\/strong>. White mats are a classic choice and most certainly our top seller, but colored mats add an entirely new dimension to your framed art. A well-chosen mat color<\/a> can enhance the artwork, draw out specific tones, and create a more dramatic or cohesive display.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try a deep navy or charcoal (instead of black!) mat for a sophisticated, gallery-like feel, or a warm-toned mat, like a rust color or olive green, to add richness and depth. If you’re feeling extra adventurous<\/a>, experiment with vibrant hues that complement or contrast the artwork. Even subtle shades\u2014like soft green or muted blue\u2014can make a piece feel more intentional and polished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t be afraid to step away from the default white mat. Color can be a powerful tool in making your artwork stand out while still looking refined and professional! Perhaps take a little dive into our color theory lessons<\/a> to boost your confidence! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shop Colorful Picture Frames<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"Ashford<\/a>
Ashford in Red<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"Green<\/a>
Hanover in Green<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"Ashford<\/a>
Ashford in Hot Pink<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"blue<\/a>
Hanover in Blue<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Shop Neon Picture Frames<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"blue<\/a>
Mystic in Cyan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"Purple<\/a>
Mystic in Violet<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\"Lime<\/a>
Mystic in Lime<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

3. Sticking to Neutral Frame Colors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Black, white, and natural wood frames<\/a> are classic choices\u2014but who says you have to play it safe? Not us, that’s for sure<\/strong>. A frame with a bold pop of color can completely transform the look of a piece.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consider a bright red, deep green, or hot pink picture frame to enhance the tones in the artwork or tie in with the surrounding decor. A colorful frame <\/a>can make a piece feel more playful, dramatic, or unexpected. If you’re hesitant, try using color in a subtle way\u2014like a dark blue instead of black or a warm rose-gold metallic picture frame<\/a> for earthy artwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our patterned matting in Sandalwood makes a great addition to your classic art prints. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Go pastel with a light green matting, or full monochrome with a blue-on-blue moment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n