Comparison of before and after framing of artwork

Do You Have to Frame Canvas Art?

No, Amborela paintings do not need to be framed, but they can be. 

Each artwork is ready to hang without a frame when it arrives at your home.  The canvas has staple free sides that are painted in a coordinating color to match your painting. A sawtooth hanger is installed on the back of the lightweight canvas. 

If you decide to add a frame, use the hardware that comes with the frame as it will be appropriate for the heavy weight of the frame. 

Back view of canvas art labeling sawtooth hanger, bumpers, and paper backing

Types of Frames for Canvas Art

If you choose to frame your canvas art, you need to buy a special frame that can fit the depth of the stretched canvas. A regular frame for photos or prints will not have the depth needed to  fit or attach the canvas, not even if you try to rig it.

Example of canvas art in a floater frame

Floater Frames

These frames easily attach to the back of the canvas making your artwork appear to “float” inside the frame. Not only do these frames look amazing, they are ideal for textured artwork. The frame does not press against the front of textured artwork at all.

Floater frames allow the sides of the canvas to show. Because Amborela paintings have staple free and painted sides, they look great in a floater frame.

You will need to remove the sawtooth hanger on the back of your Amborela painting before you can screw the floater frame onto the canvas back.

Deep Profile Frames

These frames come in many profiles (depths). You will need a frame with a profile of at least 3/4″ to fit your Amborela painting

However, your Amborela painting will not work in a deep profile frame if it has texture extending to the canvas edge. The texture prevents the canvas from sitting flush inside a frame’s rabbet (opening behind frame molding).

Example of canvas art in a deep profile frame

Tips for Framing Canvas Art

Examples of paintings that could work well in either a floater frame or a deep profile frame. 

Measurement Terms
For Canvas Art Frames

Frame Depth — This is the measurement of the inside depth of a frame that holds your canvas, not the outside. The depth is the maximum size the frame will hold. For example, Amborela canvases have a 3/4″ depth, and can fit in a 3/4″ depth frame, a 7/8″ depth frame or a 1 1/2″ depth frame.

Frame Dimensions — This is the measurement of the inside width and height of the frame, not the outside molding. Your frame should have the same dimensions as your canvas. For example, you will need a frame with 24″ x 20″ dimensions to fit an Amborela canvas with 24″ x 20″. If you order a deep profile frame, the molding will overlap ¼” on each edge of your canvas. For a canvas with texture, use a floater frame that does not overlap your edges.

You don’t need to frame Amborela canvas art to make a statement. Bold colors, textures, contrast, and size of artwork can work well for focal art that makes people want a closer look. 

Learn More About Creating a Statement With Art

Bethany Ogle

I am the artist creating the nature inspired paintings and surface patterns at Amborela. When I'm not in my studio, I am working in my garden with the flowers that inspire my artwork. I ooh and aah at beautiful colors and interesting textures.