Choose Your Canvas: Framed vs. Unframed

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Wall art is the perfect décor option for any home. It’s low-cost, and comes in an infinite variety of styles. Whether you have a large home or a tiny studio apartment, artwork can instantly elevate your interior design. The first step is choosing your perfect print among the thousands of eye-catching options. Once you’ve picked a print you love, it’s time to narrow down the technical details. Deciding whether you want a framed print or an unframed canvas can be tricky – that’s why we wrote this handy breakdown! Our design experts have put together a guide to help steer you in the right direction when it comes to your wall art format and layout. Give your home a stylish boost with wall art that fits your unique wants and needs. Let’s get started!

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The Evolution of Canvas/Framed Art

Choosing between framed and unframed wall art

What is a framed canvas?

Top benefits of a framed canvas

What is an unframed canvas?

Major benefits of an unframed canvas

Framed vs unframed décor ideas

The Evolution of Canvas/Framed Art

Framed artwork used to be the industry standard. Unframed wall art was seen as naked and unfinished. However, with the recent rise in minimalism and modern spaces, canvas art skyrocketed to fame. Canvas artwork is sleek and simple, which makes it ideal for contemporary homes. While unframed canvases may be a recent addition to the wall art scene, there’s a reason why they’re so popular. Not only do they look effortless and make the art the center of attention, but they come in a wide variety of multi-panel shapes and layouts. It’s easy to see why these fun formats are loved for their versatility. However, artwork framed hasn’t gone out of style! This classic look will always add an air of sophistication to your space.

Our Options

We have tons of layout options to explore. Match the wall art layout and format to your unique interior style. Use this guide below to determine the best shape for your aesthetic:

For the homeowner who wants to make a modern statement: Try a symmetrical, five-panel unframed canvas.

For the designer who wants something quirky yet still classy: Go with our uber-popular, four-panel wave print.

For the more traditional homeowner with a classic vision: Our single-panel, framed prints were made for you.

If you love balance with a funky edge: Our Triptych, three-piece unframed canvases are right up your alley.

If you want the perfect balance between modern and traditional: You can’t beat our framed canvas wall art!

Explore canvas with a frame ideas >>

Choosing between framed and unframed wall art

Besides the practical differences outlined below, it’s important to consider the style of your space when choosing the right wall art format. If you haven’t yet defined your personal style, steal some inspiration from the history of your home. For homeowners with a vintage exterior, consider the era your house was built as a guideline for the interior aesthetic. If your place was built recently, commit to the chic modernism and contemporary vibes. Unframed canvases tend to lean more modern, whereas framed prints look typically traditional. While it’s not an exact science, using the architectural style of your home can be a foolproof way to select appropriate décor. If you want to make a more rebellious design choice, you can incorporate both classic and contemporary elements. The balance of old and new will make your home look eclectic and visually dynamic. Your wall art is a great way to add a touch of modernism or traditionalism, depending on your design goals.

Size Considerations

While framed prints come in larger sizes, unframed canvases are available in a wider range of oversized layouts. An unframed, multi-panel print can come in up to seven pieces, making it an ultra-versatile option. However, framed prints are ideal for more compact spaces. For example, an unframed, multi-panel canvas is perfect for a communal area like an expansive living room or dining space. If you’re decorating your bathroom or kitchen, a framed piece of wall art might be more appropriate depending on the overall size of your room.

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What is a framed canvas?

A framed canvas looks like a single panel canvas, but this wrapped artwork features a third layer. The thick wooden frame that creates the illusion that the art is floating. A framed canvas lends gives your space a refined touch. In addition, the solid black border frame keeps the focus on the artwork. A framed print is typically what you see hanging in a gallery or a museum. A luxurious and low-maintenance choice, there are several benefits to this tried-and-true layout.

Browse unframed and framed canvas prints >>

Top benefits of a framed canvas

Below are our top reasons for opting for framed artwork:

The Polished Look

Framed artwork always looks chic and polished. The air of refinement subconsciously impacts the viewer's perception of your overall space.

The Floating Illusion

Because of the intentional gap between the canvas and the frame, the print appears to be floating inside the frame, giving your wall art an ethereal, three-dimensional look!

A Low-Profile Appearance

Another major visual benefit of framed artwork is that it looks very light and airy, which ultimately results in a neater overall appearance.

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What is an unframed canvas?

An unframed canvas is artwork that is not set into any frame. Because of the frameless borders, these canvases can adapt to almost any style. Versatility is key when it comes to current décor trends! Unframed canvas prints are loved for their fun and modern look. This minimalist take works well with contemporary furniture and décor.

Now you may be wondering, “How to hang a unframed, multi-panel canvas on the wall.” Well, our pre-stretched canvas prints come stapled onto wooden bars that create the internal supporting frame. We install these with a sawtooth hanger, so it's already ready to hang! It doesn’t get any easier than that.

See inspiring unframed art prints >>

Major benefits of an unframed canvas

Curious about the additional benefits of an unframed canvas? Use these pros below to discover whether an unframed canvas is right for your artistic vision:

Ideal for a Large, Empty Space

Do you have a lot of space that features a clean, large, empty wall? If so, an unframed canvas artwork can be a super-easy statement piece.

No Distractions from the Artwork

While frames can sometimes distract from the artwork itself, an unframed canvas keeps the art the center of attention.

Affordability

Our canvas prints cost less when compared with the framed option, making it a more affordable choice to stick within a tight decorating budget.

Explore no frame canvas print ideas >>

Framed vs unframed décor ideas

With the increasing quality of canvas prints, advanced printing technology, and the availability of more unique colors, artwork is now more accessible than ever. The emerging home interior and decor trends present even more affordable options to showcase your artwork.

But one important thing you should keep in mind is that whether you choose a framed or an unframed canvas print, make sure it complements the entire look of your space.

If you still are unsure, no worries! You can create a gallery wall by mixing framed and unframed pieces, for a truly unique and eclectic style! Visit our inspiration blog for more stylish wall art ideas and expert design tips. Happy decorating!