A helpful guide to the different types of picture frames
A Helpful Guide to the Different Types of Picture Frames (Complete Buying Guide)
Choosing the right picture frame can completely transform your artwork, photography, or memorabilia. Whether you’re decorating your home, framing a gift, or preserving a valuable print, understanding the different types of picture frames will help you make the best decision.
In this SEO-optimised guide, we’ll break down the most popular types of picture frames, their benefits, and when to use each one.
Why Choosing the Right Picture Frame Matters
A picture frame does more than hold an image in place. The right frame:
Enhances your artwork or photo
Complements your interior décor
Protects against dust, moisture, and UV damage
Adds visual balance and structure
Increases the perceived value of the piece
From modern minimalist styles to ornate traditional frames, each type serves a purpose.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
1. Wooden Picture Frames
Best for: Traditional interiors, family photos, artwork, rustic décor
Wooden frames are one of the most popular and versatile frame types. Available in finishes such as oak, walnut, black, white, or distressed wood, they suit a wide range of interiors.
Advantages:
Durable and sturdy
Timeless aesthetic
Available in both modern and classic styles
Can be painted or stained
Wood frames are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and gallery walls where warmth and character are important.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
2. Metal Picture Frames
Best for: Contemporary spaces, offices, minimalist interiors
Metal frames offer clean lines and a sleek finish. Often made from aluminium or steel, they are lightweight yet strong.
Advantages:
Slim profile
Modern appearance
Lightweight and durable
Ideal for photography and prints
Black, silver, and gold metal frames are especially popular for contemporary décor schemes.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
3. Acrylic & Plastic Picture Frames
Best for: Budget-friendly displays, children’s rooms, temporary displays
Acrylic and plastic frames are lightweight and affordable. While not as premium as wood or metal, they are practical for casual use.
Advantages:
Lightweight
Cost-effective
Shatter-resistant
Suitable for high-traffic areas
They’re often used for posters, certificates, and everyday photographs.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
4. Floating Frames
Best for: Canvas art, modern artwork, statement pieces
Floating frames create the illusion that the artwork is suspended within the frame, leaving a small gap around the edges.
Advantages:
Contemporary, gallery-style look
Adds depth to artwork
Ideal for stretched canvases
Floating frames are commonly used in modern homes and art galleries.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
5. Box Frames (Shadow Box Frames)
Best for: Memorabilia, 3D objects, keepsakes
Box frames — also known as shadow box frames — have extra depth, allowing you to frame items beyond flat prints.
Ideal for framing:
Medals
Sports shirts
Baby keepsakes
Wedding flowers
Collectables
These frames provide both protection and an attractive display for meaningful items.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
6. Collage Picture Frames
Best for: Family photo displays, themed photo collections
Collage frames allow you to display multiple photos within one frame layout.
Advantages:
Great for storytelling
Perfect for holidays, weddings, and milestones
Space-saving compared to individual frames
They are popular for gift-giving and gallery-style home displays.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
7. Ornate & Decorative Frames
Best for: Traditional interiors, period properties, classic artwork
Ornate frames often feature intricate detailing, carved patterns, or gilded finishes.
Common finishes:
Gold leaf
Antique silver
Baroque-inspired designs
These frames complement oil paintings, classical portraits, and vintage prints beautifully.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
8. Mounts (Mat Boards) and Their Role in Framing
Although not technically a frame type, mounts (also called mat boards) play an important role in presentation.
Benefits of using a mount:
Creates visual breathing space
Prevents artwork touching the glass
Enhances colour contrast
Adds a professional finish
Choosing acid-free mounts helps preserve artwork long-term.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
9. Glazing Options: Glass vs Acrylic
When selecting a picture frame, glazing matters for protection and clarity.
Standard Glass
Clear and scratch-resistant
Heavier than acrylic
Non-Glare Glass
Reduces reflections
Ideal for bright rooms
Acrylic (Perspex)
Lightweight
Shatter-resistant
Suitable for large frames
For valuable artwork, consider UV-protective glazing to prevent fading.
A Guide to Different Types of Picture Frames
10. Custom vs Ready-Made Picture Frames
Ready-Made Frames
Budget-friendly
Available in standard sizes
Ideal for common print dimensions
Custom Picture Frames
Made to exact measurements
Wider style selection
Perfect for unusual sizes or valuable artwork
Custom framing provides a tailored fit and premium finish.
How to Choose the Right Type of Picture Frame
When deciding which picture frame to buy, consider:
The size of your artwork
The style of your room
The value of the item
Wall space available
Budget
For modern interiors, slim black or metal frames work well. For classic spaces, wooden or ornate frames offer warmth and elegance.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the different types of picture frames helps you make informed decisions that enhance both your artwork and your interior design. From wooden and metal frames to floating and box frames, each option serves a unique purpose.
Whether you’re building a gallery wall, framing family memories, or preserving valuable artwork, choosing the right frame ensures your piece looks its best — and stays protected for years to come.
