Why it’s so Important to Frame Original Sacred Art

Fifty years from now, do you want your original sacred art to look just as good as the day it was completed? Do you want to preserve it so you can pass it down through the generations to your children and grandchildren? If you think of some of the most famous paintings in the world today—like the Transfiguration by Raphael or the Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci—you’ll see that it’s entirely possible to fulfill this desire, if you care for it well. And one of the best ways to be a good steward of beauty, is to frame original sacred art because…

1. It protects art from damage, shrinkage, and growth caused by temperature changes.

2. It enhances the art itself.

And

3. It completes the space its in by creating a more seamless look.

How to Frame Original Sacred Art

1. Consider your Budget.

Original sacred artworks must be custom framed because every canvas varies in size. So, it’s important to get it measured by a framer. Since you’ve already invested so much in your sacred art, you can keep costs down when framing by visiting your local craft store, like Michael’s. Just bring the painting with you very carefully, and they’ll frame it for you. We recommend Michael’s all the time for framing. However, if you have more leeway in your budget, check out your local frame shop. Although it might be a bit pricier, you’ll find really beautiful high quality frames.

If you’re looking for something really high-end, consider visiting a conservatory. Conservatories not only restore original works, they also frame them, and they can help you find a style and frame that works for you and your space. However, since sacred art is intended to draw you deeper into prayer, make sure you choose a frame that speaks to you! (But one that doesn’t distract from prayer.)

2. Determine the Location and the Vibe You’re Going For.

Consider where your original sacred artwork will be displayed. Is it going in a home chapel, inside a church, or in your living room? Can the wall support the weight of the canvas? What is the design of the room? Are there specific colors, textures, patterns, styles in the room that you want to match or complement? Would you like the original sacred artwork to be a focal point of the room or blend with the room’s aesthetic? Knowing your purpose for the painting will help you choose the style of frame that will best complete your space. Here are a few examples of different frame styles…

Modern
(simple, sleek, and plain)

 

Ornate
(more design, detailed, often gold)

     

Rustic
(wooden and earthy)

   

3. Bring Out the Colors in the Painting Even More.

Look for key tones in the painting that you would like to bring out even more with your frame. When looking for the perfect frame, consider using complementary colors to enhance your art by bringing out the richness of the tones even more or to blend them with your space. Keep in mind, however, that the frame should highlight the art (and not distract from prayer).

What Not to Do When Framing Original Sacred Art

1. Never put original sacred artworks behind glass.

Especially when created with oil on canvas.

2. Don’t buy a frame without having your original sacred artwork measured.

Have your sacred artwork measured at an actual framing location because every canvas has slight variations in size, and trying to DIY it can have consequences. If an original artwork is framed incorrectly and you want to change the frame later, you risk damaging the artwork when removing it from the frame, which means you’ll end up having to spend a whole lot more just to restore the painting to what it was before.

3. Don’t buy a frame online.

Make sure to have it custom framed. It might be pricey to do so, but it’ll be a whole lot less expensive than having the work restored later on due to damage from an ill-fitting frame!

After reading this post, I hope you feel confident and equipped to go out and find your frame! If you still have questions, though, about framing your original sacred artwork, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am here to help! I would also love to see your original sacred artwork in its natural habitat—in your at home chapel, at your church, in your living room, or other beautiful space. If you feel comfortable and called, send a photo of the finished work, and I just might feature it on our website and/or social media! (Please include your instagram username if you wish to be tagged.)