Framed vs Unframed Wall Art
Frame taste is personal and room-specific. Shipping unframed watercolor prints keeps packaging safer, costs lower, and gives you full control over wood tone, metal finish, mat color, and glass.
Why we sell prints unframed
Every print is ready to frame and designed for standard landscape frame sizes across 8×10 through 24×36.
Choosing a frame that flatters watercolor
Soft watercolor cityscapes pair well with simple profiles — thin black, white, natural oak, or light walnut — so the art remains the focus. Ornate gold frames can work in traditional rooms, but keep the profile refined so brushwork does not compete with carving.
A mat (often white or soft off-white) adds breathing room and a gallery finish. For larger statement sizes, some collectors float the print with a slim reveal; either approach looks intentional when margins are even.
Glass, UV protection, and longevity
We print on premium archival paper with fade-resistant inks. Framing behind UV-protective glass or acrylic and hanging away from direct sun helps preserve color for decades — the same care you would give museum-quality paper art.
Avoid hanging unframed paper in high-humidity bathrooms long-term. If you love a steamy space, prioritize sealed framing and good ventilation.
When to invest in custom framing
Ready-made frames are perfect for most standard sizes. Custom framing shines when you want a specific mat width, non-glare museum glass, or a finish matched to built-ins. For a single hero print above a sofa, custom work can elevate the entire room.
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Quick answers
- Will standard frames fit your sizes?
- Yes. Our six landscape sizes are common ready-made frame dimensions. Confirm the opening matches the paper size before you buy.
- Should I mat every print?
- Mats are optional but recommended for a gallery look and extra separation from glass. Consistent mat width helps multi-print walls feel cohesive.