My Secret to Gallery-Wall Worthy Art Displays
I’ll admit it: I’m a framing fanatic. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a cherished photo, a child’s artwork, or a vintage postcard and transforming it into a polished piece of decor. For the longest time, though, I struggled with finding the right frame. Traditional frames with their bulky mats often felt too formal, overwhelming the delicate piece inside. Then I discovered floating frames, and my entire approach to displaying art changed. My go-to source for this game-changing solution? Michaels.
What Exactly is a Floating Frame?
Before we dive into the Michaels-specific finds, let's clarify what makes a frame a 'floater'. Unlike a standard frame that uses a mat or tabs to hold your artwork in place, a floating frame is designed to create the illusion that your piece is suspended within the frame's borders. This is typically achieved with a clear spacer or a slight gap between the edge of your art and the inner lip of the frame. The result is a clean, modern, and minimalist look that puts the entire focus on your artwork, not the frame itself. It’s perfect for canvas panels, deep-edge photographs, and even three-dimensional objects like pressed flowers or coins.
Navigating the Michaels Floating Frame Collection
Walking into a Michaels store or browsing their website can be overwhelming—in the best way possible. Their selection of floating frames, often listed under 'floater frames' or 'floating picture frames,' is extensive. You'll find them in a variety of styles to match any aesthetic:
- The Classic Wood Floater: Ideal for canvas art, these frames are deep-set and often come in finishes like espresso, black, white, or natural wood. They provide a sturdy, gallery-like finish that makes any painting look professional.
- The Modern Metal Floater: For a sleeker, more contemporary vibe, thin metal floating frames are a fantastic choice. They often feature a minimalist profile and are perfect for modern photography or abstract art.
- The Shadow Box Floater: Some of Michaels' deeper 'floater' styles can double as shadow boxes, allowing you to display thicker items or create layered memorabilia displays while still maintaining that floating effect.
The key to a successful find is knowing the precise size of your artwork. Michaels offers floating frames in a wide range of standard sizes, but it's always wise to measure your piece in inches before you shop. Don't forget to check the depth requirement, especially for canvases!
A Personal Project: Framing a Travel Memory
I recently returned from a trip to Iceland with a beautiful, but oddly sized, block print from a local artist. It was on a thick paper stock and had a deckled edge that I didn’t want a traditional mat to cover. A standard frame wouldn't do it justice. I headed to Michaels with the piece in hand.
After browsing the aisle, I settled on a simple black wood floating frame from their Studio Decor line. The process was surprisingly simple. The frame came with easy-to-follow instructions, a set of offset clips, and the necessary hardware. Because the frame was designed to create that floating gap, I didn't need to worry about finding a mat that matched both the art and my wall color. Within fifteen minutes, the print was secured, and the effect was stunning. The floating design highlighted the handmade texture of the paper and gave my souvenir a true gallery-feel. It’s now the centerpiece of my living room, and I get compliments on it constantly.
Why Michaels is a Top Choice for Framing Needs
Beyond the sheer variety, there are a few reasons I consistently recommend Michaels for floating frames. First is the quality. While they offer options at various price points, even their more affordable frames feel well-constructed and use materials like real wood and acrylic glass that protect your art from UV damage. Second, is accessibility. With frequent sales and coupons, creating a high-end look is incredibly budget-friendly. Finally, for those who aren't DIY-inclined, Michaels offers professional custom framing services. You can bring in your special piece, and their experts will help you choose the perfect floater frame and handle all the technical details for a flawless result.
Pro Tips for Your Floating Frame Success
Based on my own trial and error, here are a few tips to ensure your project turns out perfectly:
- Measure Twice, Buy Once: This old adage is golden. Know the exact dimensions of your artwork. For canvases, measure the depth as well.
- Center is Everything: When securing your art into the frame, take your time to ensure it is perfectly centered within the gap. A small ruler or tape measure can help.
- Mind the Gap: Embrace the space! The gap is a intentional design element. Don’t try to force the artwork flush against the frame.
- Consider the Background: For artwork on white paper, a white or light-colored frame will make the gap less noticeable. For a more pronounced floating effect, choose a darker frame color that will contrast with your art.
Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a first-time framer, Michaels floating frames offer an accessible and stylish way to elevate your personal art. They bridge the gap between a simple store-bought frame and expensive custom work, giving you professional results without the professional price tag. So, dig out that special piece you’ve been saving and give it the spotlight it deserves.
