What is a Floating Frame for Canvas?

What is a floating frame for canvas? In this article we introduce the floater frame for canvas prints, also known as a shadow gap frame.

Unlike traditional frames, floating frames create the illusion that the artwork is "floating" inside the frame, thanks to a gap left between the canvas edge and the frame itself. This effect adds depth and draws attention directly to the artwork.

If you’re looking to elevate your wall art, floating frames can be a perfect choice. At BESTCANVAS, you can easily add a floating frame to your canvas print for a small additional cost, and it will arrive ready to hang.

But what makes a floating frame different from a traditional frame, and which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.

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Floating Frames vs Traditional Frames

Both floating frames and traditional frames serve the same core purposes: protecting artwork and enhancing its presentation. However, they offer distinct styles and visual effects.

Traditional Frames

A traditional frame fully encloses the artwork, presenting it as a single, unified decorative piece. These frames often include a glass or acrylic cover, which protects the artwork from dust, moisture, and other external elements.

Key features of traditional frames:

• The artwork is fully enclosed.

• Often includes a glass or acrylic front for added protection.

• Offers a formal, classic aesthetic, similar to the frames seen in traditional art galleries.

• Decorative objects

• Frames are commonly made of solid wood or metal and may feature ornate detailing.

Floating Frames

Floating frames, on the other hand, do not fully enclose the artwork. Instead, they leave a visible gap between the artwork and the frame. This gap creates the appearance that the artwork is “floating” within the frame, adding a contemporary and elegant effect.

Key features of floating frames:

• The artwork remains visible without a glass or acrylic cover.

• A gap between the artwork and the frame adds depth and dimension.

• The minimalist design draws attention to the artwork rather than the frame itself.

• Often used for canvas prints, as they emphasize the texture of the canvas material.

• Frames are commonly made of solid wood or metal and may feature ornate detailing.

Style Differences: Floating Frames vs Traditional Frames

Floating frames have a modern and sleek look, perfect for contemporary interiors. Typically crafted in minimalist designs, they are often available in neutral colors like black, white, or wood tones. These frames enhance the artwork without overpowering it.

In contrast, traditional frames tend to have a more formal, classic appearance. They can include intricate detailing and a glass front, creating a more structured and historic aesthetic. This style works well for formal spaces and classical artwork.

Why Choose a Floating Frame for Canvas Prints?

Canvas prints are known for their subtly textured fabric surface, which is part of their charm. A glass cover, often seen in traditional frames, can obscure this texture. Floating frames allow the natural texture of the canvas to shine, while the “floating” effect creates a polished and gallery-quality presentation.

Canvas Frame Options at BESTCANVAS

When you order a canvas print from BESTCANVAS, it arrives already stretched on a sturdy internal pine stretcher frame. Our wood comes from FSC-certified forests and is hand-assembled for durability and quality.

For an additional cost, you can choose an outer floating frame to complement your canvas print. At BESTCANVAS, our floating frames are available in five stylish designs:

• Black

• White

• Silver

• Walnut flair

• Oak vintage flair

Whether you prefer a bold, modern color or a warm wood finish, our floating frames will enhance your artwork beautifully. With their clean lines and shadow gap design, they create a striking display that adds elegance to any wall.

Prefer a Minimalist Look?

If you love the natural look of canvas, an unframed print is a timeless option that suits almost any decor style. At BESTCANVAS, our canvas prints are designed to look stunning even without a frame.

What is a Shadowbox Frame?

The term “floating frame” can sometimes be confused with a “shadowbox frame”. While floating frames showcase flat artwork like canvas prints, shadowbox frames are designed for three-dimensional objects. These deep frames allow you to display items such as medals, jerseys, or keepsakes, often with a glass or acrylic cover to protect the contents.

However, BESTCANVAS does not offer shadowbox frames - our floating frames are specifically designed for canvas prints.

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Final Thoughts

A floating frame is the ideal choice if you want to elevate the look of your canvas print while maintaining a modern, elegant aesthetic. At BESTCANVAS, we offer a variety of frame designs to suit your personal style. Whether you choose a floating frame or prefer an unframed canvas, your artwork is guaranteed to make a statement in your space.