How to Frame and Display Your New Pet Portrait
Your custom pet portrait has arrived. It’s beautiful, it’s personal, and you love it. Now what?
How you frame and display your new art can make the difference between a painting that just “sits” on a wall and one that truly becomes the heart of your room. As artists, we want your new piece to look its absolute best.
Here is our guide to framing and displaying your pet portrait to give it the “wow” factor it deserves.
1. To Frame or Not to Frame?
The first decision depends on what your painting is on.
For Stretched Canvas: You have options. Many of our clients love the modern, clean look of a “gallery-wrapped” canvas, where the painting continues around the edges. This can be hung as-is for a contemporary, minimalist feel.
The “Floater” Frame: This is our personal favourite for canvas. A floater frame is a sleek, modern frame that the canvas “floats” inside of, with a small gap around the edge. This protects the corners while still letting you see the entire painting. It’s an incredibly professional and fresh finish.
For Art on Paper (Watercolours, Drawings): Framing is non-negotiable. A frame, mat, and glass are essential to protect the paper from dust, humidity, and UV light.
2. Choosing the Right Frame Style
A great frame should complement the art, not compete with it.
Match the Art’s Vibe: A classic, soulful oil portrait might look stunning in a warm wood or an ornate gold-leaf frame. A modern, vibrant, and colourful painting might look best in a simple, thin black or natural wood floater frame.
Match Your Room’s Decor: Think about your home. Do you have a “country living” or “boho” vibe? A rustic, reclaimed wood frame could be perfect. Is your home “clean” and “modern”? A simple, gallery-style frame is the way to_ go.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a simple black, white, or natural wood frame. It’s timeless.
3. Location, Location, Location!
Where you hang your portrait determines the role it plays in your life.
The Statement Spot: The wall above a fireplace, over a sofa, or on a main wall in your dining room. This makes your portrait a central focal point of your home.
The Personal Spot: A home office, a bedroom, or a cozy reading nook. This creates a more intimate, personal connection with the art, letting you enjoy it in your private space.
The Gallery Wall: A pet portrait is the perfect “heart” of a family photo wall. Mix it with framed photos, children’s art, and other pieces to tell a rich, visual story of your family.
4. The Technical Part: How to Hang It
A few simple rules will make your art look like it was hung by a professional.
The 57″ Rule: The centre of your artwork (not the hook!) should be 57 inches from the floor. This is average human eye level and is the standard used by galleries worldwide. (If you have very high ceilings, you can go a bit higher).
Above Furniture: When hanging over a sofa or console table, the bottom of the frame should be 6-10 inches above the top of the furniture.
Lighting is Key: Avoid hanging your art in direct, harsh sunlight, which can fade the pigments over time. Instead, hang it in a well-lit room. For a truly professional touch, consider a small, adjustable “art light” or spotlight mounted above the piece. It makes a huge difference.
Your portrait is a one-of-a-kind piece. Taking a little extra time to frame and hang it properly will honour the art and the subject, turning it into a masterpiece you can be proud of for decades.