DIY Framing Mistakes to Avoid: Tips from the Experts

Framing your own art or photos can be a rewarding way to showcase your creativity and create a custom display. But even the most enthusiastic framer can run into challenges that turn a project from gallery-worthy to panic mode. Our framing experts have seen it all and we’re here to help you sidestep the most common DIY framing mistakes. With these picture framing tips, you’ll be well on your way to a polished, professional-looking frame job you’ll be proud to hang.

Choosing the Wrong Frame Size

The mistake: Grabbing a frame based solely on outer dimensions instead of measuring your art’s visible area.

Why it matters: A too-small frame can cut off parts of your image, while a too-large one might leave awkward gaps.

Expert tip: Always measure your artwork’s exact width and height (not including extra paper margins, unless you want them shown) and match that to the frame’s inside dimensions. Pictureframes.com makes this step easy by allowing you to simply enter your image or artwork size when selecting your frame, ensuring you pick the ideal size.

Skipping Matting

The mistake: Using regular cardboard or paper for backing and matting.

Why it matters: Over time, acidic materials can yellow, fade, and damage your artwork.

Expert tip: Add a mat to protect your piece and keep it looking fresh for years to come. This will also prevent sticking, moisture damage and other wear. Our mats are buffered for a more neutral pH which will help your art and photos stay vibrant for years to come.

Overlooking Mat Proportions

The mistake: Choosing a mat that’s too narrow or unevenly spaced.

Why it matters: Mats not only protect your art from touching the acylic but also create breathing space and visual balance.

Expert tip: A mat that’s at least 2 inches wide on each side tends to look best for most standard-size pieces. This is one of the most overlooked custom framing tips.

Forgetting About Acrylic Protection

The mistake: Leaving your art bare or using the wrong type of glazing.

Why it matters: Dust, moisture, and UV light can all damage your piece over time.

Expert tip: Choose UV-protective or Non-glare acrylic, especially if your piece will hang in a sunny room. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, making it great for large frames or high-traffic areas.

Not Stretching or Mounting Properly

The mistake: Framing loose canvas or wrinkled paper without proper preparation.

Why it matters: Waves, ripples, and sagging can distract from the beauty of your work.

Expert tip: For canvas prints, have them professionally stretched on stretcher bars before framing. For paper, dry mount to keep it flat and secure. This is a common framing error that can be avoided with the right tools.

Using the Wrong Hanging Hardware

The mistake: Throwing on a single nail or using flimsy hooks.

Why it matters: Heavy frames can fall, causing damage to your art, wall, or even you.

Expert tip: Always match your hanging hardware to your frame’s weight. Use D-rings for larger pieces and anchor them into wall studs when possible. This is a small step that makes a big difference in art framing at home.

Rushing the Process

The mistake: Skipping measurements, forcing pieces to fit, or rushing assembly.

Why it matters: Impatience often leads to costly mistakes and a frame that doesn’t look right.

Expert tip: Make sure you have your artwork in hand before purchasing a frame to ensure the perfect fit and style match. Lay out your materials, double-check measurements, and work on a clean, flat surface to avoid scratches or dust under the acrylic. Custom framing is as much about patience as it is about skill.

Ignoring Your Artwork’s Style

The mistake: Choosing a frame that clashes with the subject, colors, or mood of your art.

Why it matters: Even a beautiful frame can distract from your piece if it doesn’t match its tone or aesthetic.

Expert tip: Let your art guide your frame choice. Minimalist art pairs well with sleek, modern frames; vintage photos shine in ornate frames; nature shots often work beautifully in warm wood tones. Matching frame style to art style is one of the most valuable expert framing advice tips.

Hanging in the Wrong Environment

The mistake: Placing framed art in areas with extreme temperature changes, high humidity, or direct sunlight.

Why it matters: Heat and moisture can warp frames and damage art, while sunlight can fade colors.

Expert tip: Avoid hanging valuable pieces in bathrooms, kitchens, or areas with intense sun exposure. If you must hang them near a window, opt for UV-protective glazing and keep curtains or blinds closed during peak sunlight hours.

The Bottom Line

DIY framing doesn’t have to feel intimidating especially if you avoid these common DIY framing mistakes. With the right materials, careful measurements, and a little patience, you can achieve a gallery-worthy look at home.

If you’re ready to get started, explore custom frame options at Pictureframes.com, where you’ll find professional-quality frames, mats, and tools designed to make art framing at home easier (and more beautiful) than ever.