6 Creative Ways to Display Art Without Frames

Artworks in galleries, coffee shops, and homes look beautiful in custom frames or quirky thrift shop ones. However, they can also be very expensive. I'm here to share alternative ways to display works on paper in your home without the need for costly frames.

Why Go Frameless?

Displaying artwork without a frame can be cheaper, more convenient, and more fun. There are many ways to showcase a painting without framing, allowing the art itself to shine through. Remember to protect any works from direct sunlight and harmful UV rays, regardless of how you display them. Keep them out of reach of children, pets, and windy spots.

Particularly with small works, frames can overwhelm. Glass glare can make it difficult to appreciate the painting too.

How to Display Art on a Wall Without a Frame

1. Use clips or cute pegs under a shelf

The easiest way to hang art on a wall is by using clips, such as bulldog clips or even fancy clothes pegs, on a simple nail or hook. This quick and easy solution is a contemporary and fun way to hang anything from original art to prints and photos. You can choose to mount your works for added protection. Customise your clips with chunky designs or bold colours to match the artwork or to make a statement.

2. Use bookshelves, units and desk surfaces

One of my favourite ways to display art is by using shelves, tabletops, and other flat surfaces like bookcases. You can back the artworks onto a board, sturdy card, or paper. Use a mount to make them sturdy, and stand them on mini easels or book stands. Even recipe book stands work well.

3. Create a Themed Art Nook

I love displaying art in little themed nooks in my home. For example, you can showcase a collection of mini paintings alongside home decor pieces and souvenirs from your travels.

My little corner of Wales inspiration with stones and shells from the local beach, a beautiful little bird by The Shed by the Stream (https://www.instagram.com/theshedbythestream?igsh=MWwzeXVuejVmZTZ0eQ==) and my mini painting Aber Falls

An actual little corner in Wales with one of my paintings on display

5. Use Cork or Magnetic Boards

Corkboards and magnetic boards are great for swapping out art seasonally or whenever your mood changes. You can tack or secure your originals or prints to a corkboard, magnetic board, or even a whiteboard or blackboard for a minimal and customisable display.

6. Use Poster Hangers

Inexpensive and easy to find, magnetic poster hangers provide just a little bit of a frame to your art while remaining sleek and not overwhelming the piece itself. These are also quick and easy to swap out.

Carefully handled, varnished, and protected art on paper can be displayed almost anywhere. Choosing to display art without a frame can save you money, effort, and the hassle of patching holes in your walls.

Explore Alternative Display Options

There are countless ways to display art without traditional framing. Consider using washi tape for a playful look or hanging art with string and clothespins for a casual feel. You could also create a gallery wall with a mix of art styles and sizes, allowing for a dynamic and engaging display.

Conclusion

I hope this guide has helped you overcome some of the decision fatigue that might be holding you back! You can browse all available originals and my new Print shop using the button below.

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