Oil Painting Frames

Frames for oil painting are most often made of wood. They do not usually have mats since the oil painting will not need glass for protection. The oil painting frame can add value to a painting and can add aesthetic quality to the art work as well.

The question often arises, when should I frame my oil paint board. The answer is simple. Once the painting is completely dry then the framing can begin. Before that stage the painting could be damaged while in transit or in storage or while actually being handled during the framing process. There are a few ideas that should be followed that will answer, how do you frame an oil painting. Whether using board or canvas the choice of frames for oil painting are extensive. The artist must decide on the picture frame for oil painting.

When should I frame my oil painting? If the paint is still wet and there is no deadline, leave the board until the paint has dried. Paints like Ultramarine blue and cadmium yellow take different times to dry. The better quality of the oil color the longer a painting may take to dry completely. Also if colors are applied thickly the drying time will be extended. Climate will also change drying times. Framing an oil painting can be rewarding but take time to ensure no damage is done to the artwork while it is drying.

Consider how to frame oil painting before choosing a frame. Think of the tones within the painting, and try to match the frame color with some of the inner tones and colors. For heavier subject matter consider a thicker heavier frame. For delicate painting or light and airy subject matter, consider a lighter or more ornate frame.

Moldings are most often wooden when used as oil painting frames. They can be any thickness and from simple profiles to ornate and decorative borders. Depending on the painting subject the oil painting frame should compliment the overall effect of the artwork. On occasion the oil painting frame can become part of the painting itself.

So when the painting is thoroughly dry and the artist is happy with their choice of molding the next stage is taken. If the frame is complete it only leaves placing the oil painting board into the frame and completing the backing. Small tacks and masking tape can hold the board in place while hooks or eyelets and wire can be used for hanging the picture.