Gallerist Catharine Miller talks through some of her top tips on choosing frames for your artwork – and how to buy vintage and antique designs.
Tips on how to frame art
How to choose a frame
Look at the artwork carefully. You want to enhance it without overpowering it. Consider the width and style of the frame, as well as the colour. I encourage you to think beyond black or white. If it needs glazing, I recommend Artglass, which is UV protected and non-reflective, meaning you see the artwork clearly and not your own reflection.
Don’t be too concerned about where you’re going to hang it or what other frames are in the room because that may change. If it looks great on its own, you can make it work anywhere.
Match the frame to the art, not the scheme
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Wall colour and furnishings often change over time so don’t try and match frames to the scheme of the room. I encourage contrast and variety as it can make for a more inviting room.
Choose a framer wisely
We use three framers who specialise in different fields so we can choose what’s right for the artwork. For works on canvas, Period Frames in Surbiton, who I’ve been working with for 40 years, make bespoke handmade frames for the trade.
For works on paper I go to Monsté at Monart Frames, Fulham. And Jackson’s by Putney Bridge for tricker works – Tim is a great problem solver.
Take your time
Framing can be costly so take your time and ask a framer for advice. Experiment with different styles and hold the samples up to the painting to see what works well.
I’m a big advocate for custom/vintage frames but affordable ready-made frames can often do the trick. The main thing is to get the proportions right. You can also customise them with sandpaper and paint. Or get a new mount and glass cut by a framer.
Opt for vintage
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Vintage frames already have character and some are like pieces of furniture. I particularly hunt out carved wooden ones with a patina – it’s unmatchable in new frames.
Over the years I have amassed a big collection of old frames and I love the serendipity of matching them to artworks that I find along the way. It’s such a thrill when the pairing works.
Look on your travels
I buy frames everywhere I go, France, Belgium, Argentina, Isle of Wight… In Paris my favourite markets are Porte de Vanves and the Marché au Puces, Saint-Ouen, as well as specialist dealer Galerie Resche.
In London, Charles Daggett has a great collection and will fit the paintings for you. When I go around the markets and vide-greniers, I take my trusty pliers with me in case I like the frame but not the picture.
I can dismantle it and give the art back to the vendor, who often looks surprised and delighted. I then carry the frames on my arm like bracelets until I can fit no more.
Check for condition
Look out for woodworm, splinters and nails and don’t buy them if they are too warped. Some may look beyond repair but, if you like the shape, they can be given a new lease of life with a coat of paint. You can make artwork fit with a new mount and glass, which can usually be done by your local framer.
It’s quite fun to have a mission and gives you something to look out for when you go around markets and car boot fairs with a greater sense of purpose. If you love the frame you’ll always find something to put in it.