The frame style you choose can completely change the way the artwork looks on display. Some frames create a cleaner and more modern finish, while others give artwork a more traditional and structured appearance.
One of the most common comparisons people make is between canvas floating frames and traditional picture frames. Both work well, but they are designed for different types of artwork and create very different results once displayed.
Why Canvas Floating Frames Are So Popular
Canvas floating frames have become increasingly popular over the last few years, especially for modern interiors and contemporary artwork.
Unlike traditional framing, the canvas sits slightly inside the frame rather than underneath it. This creates a small gap around the edge of the artwork, giving the canvas a more open and gallery-style finish.
Many people prefer this style because:
- The artwork feels less enclosed
- The edges of the canvas remain visible
- The frame adds structure without overpowering the artwork
- It works well for both modern homes and studio spaces
Floating frames are commonly used for:
- Canvas wall art
- Acrylic paintings
- Large statement artwork
- Photography canvases
- Abstract artwork
Traditional Frames Create A Different Finish
Traditional picture frames create a much more enclosed look around artwork.
The frame usually overlaps the edge of the print or image, and glazing or mounts are often added as part of the overall display.
This style is still extremely popular, especially for:
- Photography prints
- Posters
- Certificates
- Mounted artwork
- Watercolour paintings
For example, many customers choose picture frames and mounts when framing photography or paper artwork because mounts help create spacing and definition around the image.
The Difference In Overall Style
The main difference between these two frame styles comes down to presentation.
Canvas floating frames usually create:
- A cleaner appearance
- A more contemporary finish
- More focus on the artwork itself
Traditional frames often create:
- A more classic appearance
- A more formal finish
- More structure around the artwork
Neither option is wrong. It depends entirely on the type of artwork and the style of room the piece will be displayed in.
Which Frame Style Works Best In Modern Homes?
Canvas floating frames are often chosen for modern interiors because they work well with:
- Neutral spaces
- Minimal interiors
- Contemporary artwork
- Gallery walls
- Large canvas prints
Black floating frames remain one of the most popular choices because they add contrast without distracting from the artwork itself.
Many customers also combine floating canvas artwork with multi photo frames to create mixed gallery wall layouts throughout the home.
Traditional Frames Still Work Well For Many Types Of Artwork
Although floating frames are growing in popularity, traditional frames are still often the better choice for certain artwork types.
Paper prints and photographs usually benefit from glazing and mount spacing, which is why traditional framing remains popular for:
- Family photography
- Certificates
- Posters
- Fine art prints
For these types of artwork, made-to-measure picture frames are often the more practical option.
Which One Should You Choose?
A few things usually help when deciding:
- Is the artwork printed on canvas or paper?
- Do you want a modern or traditional finish?
- Will the artwork need glazing?
- Do you want the artwork edges visible?
Canvas floating frames are generally designed to enhance stretched canvas artwork, while traditional frames are better suited for mounted prints and photography.
Canvas floating frames and traditional frames both create very different finishes, and the right option usually depends on the artwork itself and the style you want to achieve.
Floating frames have become especially popular for canvas artwork because they create a cleaner and more modern presentation while still adding structure around the piece.