Channeling our picture-framing origin, Spacia Group applies that same precision, detail and ingenuity to art consulting, sourcing and creating. Our experienced art consultants work in collaboration with you—your specifications and design direction—to help define your unique space.
With a range of resources and capabilities at our disposal, Spacia thoughtfully and intentionally brings an inspired approach to every project. Think of art consultation as a bonus—not as an additional investment but as a complimentary part of your experience. Rely on our consultants to bring a fresh perspective, informed recommendations and imaginative solutions.
Use the following as a guide to get exactly what you've envisioned. This series is intended to aid you in specifying Spacia custom art. We'll break down the basics, first things first, framing & fitting, hanging, and substrates & such.
Part 3: Framing & Fitting
Frame: The decorative edging for a picture, such as a print or painting, intended to enhance it, make it easier to display, and/or protect it.
Moulding: The material of the picture frame (i.e. wood, poly or metal). Moulding also refers to the shape of a frame; the form of its profile. Regardless of its shape or size, moulding has four measurements:
A moulding width
B moulding height
C rabbet depth
D rabbet (lip) width
Rabbet Depth: The inside height of the moulding.
Rabbet Lip: The inner lip or groove of the picture frame moulding which holds the frame's components (glazing, mat(s), artwork and backing).
Glazing: The protective barrier, typically glass or acrylic, that sits between the contents of any picture frame and the outside environment. (Options include regular glass, non-glare glass, UV glass clear, UV non-glare glass, AR reflective glass, no glass, plexiglass, non-glare plexiglass, UV plexiglass.)
Backing/Mounting: Backing is a rigid board that supports the artwork in the frame. Mounting refers to how the art is secured in the frame.
Dry Mount: A method of adhering a 2-dimensional item onto a firm support by means of pressure and heat activated adhesive, usually in sheet form.
Fitting: The final assembly of the framing process.
Shadow Box: A frame deep enough to accommodate a variety of items such as three-dimensional objects. The object(s) to be framed are mounted, usually to the backing, using specialty mounts to support the items without being distracting. Two-dimensional prints may be fitted in a shadowbox frame to create a dramatic visual affect. Shadowbox moulding will have a deeper rabbet depth in comparison to standard moulding.
Float/Floater Frame: Primarily used for gallery wrapped canvases, float frames are constructed to allow space between the outside of the artwork and the inside of the frame. Float frames give the illusion that the artwork is floating inside the picture frame without touching it. The space between the canvas and the frame is called a reveal. It’s common practice to make the canvas depth slightly shorter than the height of the float frame. This will help protect the canvas.
Next up, 'Framing & Fitting' continues with more on mat board and framing methods...