Whether you are looking to frame your own work for exhibiting or to frame purchased work, framing can be a time consuming and costly venture. This is by no means an in-depth look in to the world of art framing, but more of an insight in to some popular framing/mounting options. From our personal experience, nothing beats finding a good local framer to discuss the different framing options available to best display your art work.
Types of Displaying:
Canvas Gallery Wrap - Very simple method of stretching an art work so that the canvas wraps around the sides and is secured to the back of the wooden frame. We currently stock two types of canvas wrap systems, one permanent - Hahnemuhle Gallerie wrap system and the other being more of a display/presentation version - JetMaster cardboard wrap system.
Canvas/Paper on Solid Backing – This display method involves the adhering of canvas or paper to a rigid (usually aluminium or Gatorboard/foamcore) backing without being framed. This seems to be quite popular of late, with many of our customers choosing this option when exhibiting their work.

Mounting and Framing - There are a lot different ways that works on paper can be mounted and then framed. This is where your local framer can really help you select the best way to mount and the best colours/materials to use to best show off your work. In Melbourne we have two framers that we use regularly being Fitzroy Stretches and Omnus Framing. Both of these businesses provide excellent quality of service and have excellent staff on hand to help you in your framing decisions.
The following link will provide an insight in to the number of different mounting and board options available to you: Cowal Frames

This link will provide an illustrated explanation of my favorite framing style which is, the floating style. This method looks amazing when done right, but keep in mind that this does tend to be the most expensive style of framing at times: Greg Poole

Premade Frames - If your work is on standard paper sizes like A4 or A3 and the like, premade frames are a good, cost effective option for you. A good place to grab modern looking frames is IKEA, although the quality can be some times lacking in them, they are a good option for those on a budget.

Unframed - For those on a budget, it is still possible to display your work without framing. Of course, this method is purely for home/office use, and if exhibiting we highly suggest you frame your work. Options include bulldog clips, photo corner stickers, clothing pegs, magnets and the like.
