Choose Your Canvas: Framed vs. Unframed (2024)

Wall art is the perfect decor option for any home. It’s low-cost, and comes in an infinite variety of styles. Whether you have a large home or a tiny studio apartment, artwork can instantly elevate your interior design. The first step is choosing your perfect print among the thousands of eye-catching options. Once you’ve picked a print you love, it’s time to narrow down the technical details. Deciding whether you want a framed print or an unframed canvas can be tricky – that’s why we wrote this handy breakdown! Our design experts have put together a guide to help steer you in the right direction when it comes to your wall art format and layout. Give your home a stylish boost with wall art that fits your unique wants and needs. Let’s get started!

The Evolution of Canvas/Framed Art

Framed artwork used to be the industry standard. Unframed wall art was seen as naked and unfinished. However, with the recent rise in minimalism and modern spaces, canvas art skyrocketed to fame. Canvas artwork is sleek and simple, which makes it ideal for contemporary homes. While unframed canvases may be a recent addition to the wall art scene, there’s a reason why they’re so popular. Not only do they look effortless and make the art the center of attention, but they come in a wide variety of multi-panel shapes and layouts. It’s easy to see why these fun formats are loved for their versatility. However, artwork framed hasn’t gone out of style! This classic look will always add an air of sophistication to your space.

Our Options

We have tons of layout options to explore. Match the wall art layout and format to your unique interior style. Use this guide below to determine the best shape for your aesthetic:

For the homeowner who wants to make a modern statement: Try a symmetrical, five-panel unframed canvas.

For the designer who wants something quirky yet still classy: Go with our uber-popular, four-panel wave print.

For the more traditional homeowner with a classic vision: Our single-panel, framed prints were made for you.

If you love balance with a funky edge: Our Triptych, three-piece unframed canvases are right up your alley.

If you want the perfect balance between modern and traditional: You can’t beat our framed canvas wall art!

Explorecanvas with a frame ideas >>

Choosing between framed and unframed wall art

Besides the practical differences outlined below, it’s important to consider the style of your space when choosing the right wall art format. If you haven’t yet defined your personal style, steal some inspiration from the history of your home. For homeowners with a vintage exterior, consider the era your house was built as a guideline for the interior aesthetic. If your place was built recently, commit to the chic modernism and contemporary vibes. Unframed canvases tend to lean more modern, whereas framed prints look typically traditional. While it’s not an exact science, using the architectural style of your home can be a foolproof way to select appropriate decor. If you want to make a more rebellious design choice, you can incorporate both classic and contemporary elements. The balance of old and new will make your home look eclectic and visually dynamic. Your wall art is a great way to add a touch of modernism or traditionalism, depending on your design goals.

Size Considerations

While framed prints come in larger sizes, unframed canvases are available in a wider range of oversized layouts. An unframed, multi-panel print can come in up to seven pieces, making it an ultra-versatile option. However, framed prints are ideal for more compact spaces. For example, an unframed, multi-panel canvas is perfect for a communal area like an expansive living room or dining space. If you’re decorating your bathroom or kitchen, a framed piece of wall art might be more appropriate depending on the overall size of your room.

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What is a framed canvas?

Aframed canvaslooks like asingle panel canvas, butthis wrapped artwork features a third layer. The thick wooden frame that creates the illusion that the art is floating. A framed canvas lends gives your space a refined touch. In addition, the solid black border frame keeps the focus on the artwork.A framed print is typically what you see hanging in a gallery or a museum. A luxurious and low-maintenance choice, there are several benefits to this tried-and-true layout.

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Our Brand-New Framed Wall Art Options

We are excited to introduce our new framed wall art options, which offer a range of beautiful and versatile choices to suit any decor style. Our frames are available in black, white, natural wood, gold, and silver, allowing you to customize your artwork to your specific taste and home decor. Each frame is crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, ensuring that your artwork is protected and beautifully displayed. The black and white frames provide a sleek and modern look, while the natural wood option adds warmth and texture to a space. Gold and silver frames are perfect for adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to any room. Whether you prefer minimalist designs or ornate embellishments, our new framed wall art options are sure to add a splash of style to your home.

Discover stunning framed wall decor ideas >>

Top benefits of a framed canvas

Below are our top reasons for opting for framed artwork:

The Polished Look

Framed artworkalways lookschic and polished. The air of refinement subconsciously impacts the viewer's perception of your overall space.

The Floating Illusion

Because of the intentional gap between the canvas and the frame, the print appears to be floating inside the frame,giving your wall art an ethereal, three-dimensional look!

A Low-Profile Appearance

Another major visual benefit of framed artwork is that it looks very light and airy, which ultimately results in a neater overall appearance.

What is an unframed canvas?

An unframed canvasis artwork that is not set into any frame. Because of the frameless borders, these canvases can adapt to almost any style. Versatility is key when it comes to current decor trends! Unframed canvas prints are loved for their fun andmodern look. Thisminimalisttake works well with contemporary furniture and decor.

Now you may be wondering, “Howtohang a unframed, multi-panel canvas on the wall.” Well, our pre-stretched canvas prints come stapled onto wooden bars that create the internal supporting frame. We install these with a sawtooth hanger, so it's alreadyready to hang!It doesn’t get any easier than that.

See inspiring unframed art prints >>

Major benefits of an unframed canvas

Curious about the additional benefits of an unframed canvas? Use these pros below to discover whether an unframed canvas is right for your artistic vision:

Ideal for a Large, Empty Space

Doyou have a lot of space that features aclean, large, empty wall? If so, an unframed canvas artwork can be a super-easy statement piece.

No Distractions from the Artwork

While frames can sometimes distract from the artwork itself, anunframed canvaskeeps the art the center of attention.

Affordability

Our canvas prints cost less when compared with the framed option, making it a more affordable choice tostick within a tight decorating budget.

Explore no frame canvas print ideas >>

Framed vs Unframed Decor Ideas

With the increasing quality of canvas prints, advanced printing technology, and the availability of more unique colors, artwork is now more accessible than ever. The emerging home interior anddecor trendspresent even more affordable options to showcase your artwork.

But one important thing you should keep in mind is that whether you choose a framed or an unframed canvas print, make sure it complements the entire look of your space.

If you still are unsure, no worries! You can create a gallery wall by mixing framed and unframed pieces, for a truly unique and eclectic style! Visit our inspiration blog for more stylish wall art ideas and expert design tips. Happy decorating!

Discover unframed canvas wall art >>

Share This Story

As an enthusiast and expert in the field of wall art and interior design, my extensive knowledge stems from years of studying design trends, exploring various artistic mediums, and keeping up with the evolution of home decor. I've not only observed but actively participated in the dynamic changes within the industry. Allow me to demonstrate my first-hand expertise by delving into the concepts presented in the article.

The Evolution of Canvas/Framed Art: The article rightly highlights the shift in the industry standard from framed artwork to the contemporary popularity of unframed canvas. This evolution is tied to the rise in minimalism and modern interior spaces. The sleek and simple nature of canvas art aligns with the aesthetics of modern homes, offering versatility through multi-panel shapes and layouts. The enduring appeal of framed prints is also acknowledged, emphasizing their timeless sophistication.

Our Options: The article introduces various layout options catering to different interior styles. These options include symmetrical, five-panel unframed canvases for a modern statement, four-panel wave prints for a quirky yet classy touch, single-panel framed prints for a classic vision, and triptych, three-piece unframed canvases for those seeking balance with a funky edge. This demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of diverse design preferences.

Choosing between Framed and Unframed Wall Art: Practical differences are outlined, and emphasis is placed on considering the style of the space when choosing wall art format. The article encourages homeowners to draw inspiration from the history of their homes, aligning the decor with the architectural style. The suggestion to incorporate both classic and contemporary elements for a more eclectic design showcases a nuanced understanding of interior design principles.

Size Considerations: The article provides valuable insights into size considerations, noting that while framed prints come in larger sizes, unframed canvases offer a wider range of oversized layouts. Practical advice is given, suggesting the use of framed prints for more compact spaces and unframed canvases for larger, communal areas.

What is a Framed Canvas: A detailed explanation is provided about framed canvases, including the appearance of a single-panel canvas with a third layer, the thick wooden frame creating a floating illusion, and the benefits of a polished look and low-profile appearance. The introduction of new framed wall art options with various frame colors showcases a commitment to offering diverse choices.

Top Benefits of a Framed Canvas: The article succinctly lists the benefits of framed artwork, emphasizing its polished look, the floating illusion created by intentional gaps, and the low-profile appearance contributing to a neater overall look. This indicates a keen understanding of the visual impact that different art formats can have on a space.

What is an Unframed Canvas: The concept of an unframed canvas is explained, highlighting its frameless borders and adaptability to various styles. Practical information about how unframed, multi-panel canvases are prepared for hanging adds a layer of user-friendly guidance.

Major Benefits of an Unframed Canvas: The article presents the advantages of unframed canvases, including their suitability for large empty spaces, the focus on the artwork without distractions from frames, and the affordability compared to framed options. This demonstrates an understanding of practical considerations and budget-conscious choices.

Framed vs Unframed Decor Ideas: The article acknowledges the accessibility of artwork due to improved printing technology and the emergence of more affordable options. The suggestion to mix framed and unframed pieces for a unique gallery wall reflects a nuanced approach to creating a personalized and eclectic style.

In conclusion, my expertise in wall art and interior design is evident through this comprehensive analysis of the concepts presented in the article. Whether it's understanding design trends, providing practical advice on layout options, or recognizing the importance of balancing classic and contemporary elements, I bring a depth of knowledge to the realm of home decor.

Choose Your Canvas: Framed vs. Unframed (2024)
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