So, to kick off ourfirst day of FREE framing sitewide, we’re giving you some framing pointers, breaking down all of our framing options, and giving you a side-by-side glance at what just the right frame can do for your new print. Ready? Here we go!
## First: Decide what you want your print to achieve.
If you ask us, there are two types of print purchases: 1) those made with a specific room or space on the wall in mind, and 2) those made on a whim without a clue where it will go because you simply fall. in. love. Both kinds of purchases are equally important in our book, but the emotion behind it will definitely affect the frame you choose!
That being said, try your best to nail down what you want your new print to achieve from the get-go. Do you want it to blend in seamlessly with your décor? Or do you want it to be a show-stopping focal point in your space? Or somewhere in between? Certainly each of these things can be achieved no matter what color frame you choose, but one may do the job a bit better than another. For instance, if you have white or light-colored walls and you’re aiming for a dreamy and seamless look, a white frame will always deliver. Going for a bolder vibe? Then a black frame may better suit you.
## Second: Decide where your print will go.
Once you’ve decided what you want your print to achieve, create a mental image of where it will work in your space. Often what dictates the choice of frame will be what the print will be hanging by in your home. For instance, if it will be going in a gallery wall that’s mostly white frames, then perhaps you want to add some interest and variation by throwing a black or natural frame in the mix. Take a mental note of the décor in your space, and let those existing pieces guide your decision. But we should note: this does NOT always mean you have to perfectly match your décor! It’s all about _complimenting_ your color scheme and style, not necessarily replicating it.
## Third: Turn on your attention to detail.
Last step in choosing your frame—taking a close look at the details of your piece! We’ll get into the frame-by-frame details below, but we’ll begin by saying that each frame color will pull out different elements of your art. For example, prints from Prada Marfa, Far Far Away, and even some prints from Gray Malin at the Parker look striking in a black gallery frame, because of the subtle black details already present in the series. On the other hand, a clean white frame paired with the pristine white slopes in À la Montagne creates a breathtaking scene that almost makes you feel like the snow extends beyond the frame. As far as our natural frame goes, we think this one shines with organic details like sand on the beach, multicolored sheep, and thatched umbrellas. (And so much more!)
Now, let’s get to the nitty gritty…
## Option 1: Gallery Black
If you’re looking for a classic, luxe option that will make your print look like it’s popping off the wall, then a black frame will be your best friend. In most cases we can’t argue with a black frame—it’s simple, sleek and neutral, which means it goes with most everything. But what we really love about this option is that (when paired with the right print) it adds a totally mod, high-contrast look that we’re completely obsessed with. Look no further than The Swimming Pool, Palm Beach or Llama with Pink Balloons, for example…
## Option 2: Gallery White
Ah, clean gallery white… the frame that quite literally goes with everything. Not only does a white frame allow your shiny new print to really do the talking, but it also allows for easy blending with existing décor in your space. But beyond that, we can’t get over the lightness that this pure white frame brings to a print. Whether your new artwork is just a foot tall, or towering at four and a half feet tall, this option will make your print look light as air. Just take a look at Gray’s Day Trip Whitehaven Beach or Pink and White Beach Club to see what we mean…
## Option 3: Natural Wood
Last, but certainly not least, is our au naturel wood frame. We love the warmth this option brings to a print, and the way it gives any piece of artwork an undeniably organic vibe. BTW, this natural wood frame looks beyond in a space already filled with natural wood accents—and don’t even get us started on this frame paired with everything from mid-century modern to boho design. Not only is this option the newest of the three we offer, but we also love how it plays off the warmth of the sand and sun in prints like Bathing Beauties and Riccione Multicolor Umbrellas (just to name a couple)…
**Which framing option are you going to choose for your new print?**
We get the struggle. We love all of these frames so much in their own way, it’s hard to choose just one…
But we know you’ll make the right choice. ;) We can’t wait to see what combinations you come up with, so make sure to scoop up your favorite prints this week during free framing, and tag us on social media @GrayMalin so we can see what you dreamt up!
Xx Team GM
Photos: Gray Malin