To choose the right canvas frame, ensure the rabbet depth of the frame is deeper than the thickness of your canvas. Here's a more detailed breakdown to help you make the best selection:
Understanding Rabbet Depth
The rabbet is the recessed area on the inside of the frame where the canvas sits. Its depth is crucial because it determines whether your canvas will fit properly.
Canvas Thickness and Stretcher Bars
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Stretched Canvases: These canvases are stretched over wooden stretcher bars. These bars come in various thicknesses, such as:
- Thin profile (approximately 3/4 inch)
- Standard profile (approximately 1 1/2 inches)
- Gallery profile (typically over 1 1/2 inches)
The thickness of the stretcher bar directly impacts the overall depth of your canvas, so consider this when selecting a frame.
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Canvas Panels: These are thinner, often around 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, and don't require as much rabbet depth.
Steps to Choosing the Right Frame:
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Measure your canvas's thickness: Use a ruler or measuring tape to determine the depth of your canvas, including the stretcher bars if applicable.
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Consider the rabbet depth: When selecting a frame, ensure the rabbet depth is slightly deeper than your canvas's thickness. This allows the canvas to sit comfortably within the frame without protruding from the back.
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Aesthetics:
- Frame Style: Consider the style of your artwork and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Options range from ornate and traditional to minimalist and modern.
- Frame Color and Material: Choose a frame color and material (wood, metal, etc.) that complements your artwork and its surroundings.
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Hardware and Mounting: Ensure the frame comes with appropriate hardware for securing the canvas and for hanging the framed artwork.
Example Scenario:
Let's say you have a stretched canvas with stretcher bars that are 1 1/2 inches thick. You'll need a frame with a rabbet depth of at least 1 5/8 inches (or slightly more) to ensure the canvas fits properly.
By considering these factors, you can choose a canvas frame that not only complements your artwork but also provides the necessary support and protection.
