How to Properly Frame Your Child’s Artwork: Tips for Displaying Creative Masterpieces

Every parent knows the joy of seeing their child’s imagination come to life through art. Whether it's vibrant finger paintings, carefully drawn animals, or bold abstract shapes, these pieces hold a special place in our hearts. One of the best ways to celebrate and preserve these creative masterpieces is by framing them and proudly displaying them in your home. Properly framing your child’s artwork not only adds a touch of professionalism but also protects the artwork for years to come. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips on how to frame your child’s art to make it shine.

1. Choose the Right Frame to Complement the Art

The first step in framing your child’s artwork is selecting the perfect frame. Picture framing comes in a wide range of styles, colors, and materials. For children’s artwork, you can have fun with vibrant, playful frames that match the colors in the artwork or opt for simple, neutral frames that let the artwork take center stage.

• Wooden frames add warmth and can complement both bright and subtle artwork.
• Metal frames provide a sleek, modern look, perfect for more abstract pieces.
• Colorful frames can highlight specific shades in the artwork and add a playful touch to the display.

When selecting a frame, consider the size and shape of the artwork. Custom picture framing can be an excellent option if the artwork is non-standard in size or if you want a more personalized display.

2. Use Archival Materials for Long-Term Preservation

Children’s art is often made using materials that are not designed to last forever, such as construction paper or crayons. To preserve these precious creations, it’s essential to use archival-quality materials in your picture framing. Acid-free mats and backing will prevent discoloration and deterioration over time.

Additionally, using UV-protective glass can help shield the artwork from light exposure, which can cause fading. This is particularly important if you plan to hang the artwork in a brightly lit area.

3. Consider Creative Matting

Matting not only adds a professional touch to framed artwork but also helps to highlight the artwork itself. For children’s drawings or paintings, you can choose colorful mats to complement the artwork or stick to classic white or neutral mats for a more minimalist look.

• Double matting is an excellent option if you want to add extra depth to the frame.
• For a whimsical feel, multi-colored mats can reflect the fun and creativity of the artwork.

When choosing the mat size, leave enough space between the artwork and the frame to give the piece breathing room. This also prevents the artwork from being directly against the glass, which can cause smudging or sticking over time.

4. Mix and Match for a Fun Gallery Wall

One of the best ways to display your child’s framed artwork is by creating a gallery wall. Instead of sticking to one type of frame, try mixing and matching different styles and sizes to create a fun and dynamic display. You can combine custom picture framing with ready-made frames to give each piece a unique look.

A gallery wall is not only a wonderful way to showcase your child’s creativity, but it also adds a personal touch to your home decor. Consider changing out the artwork periodically to keep the display fresh and reflect your child’s evolving artistic journey.

5. Frame Multiple Pieces Together

If your child has created a series of related artworks, such as seasonal themes or different versions of the same subject, you can frame them together in a multi-opening frame. This allows you to display several pieces in one frame, creating a cohesive story.

Another option is to create a collage-style frame with several smaller pieces arranged together. This works well for doodles, sketches, and smaller creations that might otherwise get lost in a larger frame.

6. Get Creative with Display Locations

Where you hang your child’s framed artwork is just as important as how you frame it. While common places like living rooms or hallways are great, don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

• Children’s bedrooms: Framing their own artwork and hanging it in their room gives kids a sense of pride and ownership.
• Home office or workspace: Displaying your child’s framed creations in your workspace adds a personal touch and can be a great conversation starter during virtual meetings.
• Kitchen or dining area: Artwork can add color and vibrancy to everyday spaces like the kitchen or dining room.

7. Rotate Art for a Fresh Display

As your child continues to create new art, you’ll likely have more pieces than wall space! Consider rotating the framed pieces every few months. This keeps your display fresh and allows you to highlight new masterpieces while still preserving earlier works in storage. Swapping out the artwork can also reflect changes in seasons or special events, making the display more dynamic.

Framing your child’s artwork is a beautiful way to celebrate their creativity and give their pieces the respect they deserve. By choosing the right frame, using archival materials, and getting creative with display options, you can turn simple drawings into cherished keepsakes. Custom picture framing ensures that each piece is preserved and showcased in a way that reflects the uniqueness of your child’s art. With these tips, you’ll not only enhance the artwork’s appearance but also create lasting memories for your family to treasure.