Finally got around to printing some of your favourite iPhone pics? Or have a stack of pretty prints still in their protective plastic hanging around in the corner of your room? It’s about time you got them on display. And if you’re short on cash to spend you can still make them look smart and stylish — there are plenty of affordable options to bring them to life.
As well as protecting your pics, a good frame will complement them and make them pop on your wall, or let them do all of the talking on their own — if you prefer. So how should you choose the best cheap picture frame for your piece and your decor scheme?
It goes without saying that you need to measure your print or check the dimensions first to find the perfect fit. A print sinking into the corner of too large a frame, or overhanging the picture frame mat will look messy and cheapen the look. If it does have a mounting, you want your picture to sit behind it with no borders or margins on show through the glass or perspex.
Colour-wise, if you have a bold piece of art or a busy picture, picking a matte finish in a shade which blends into your wall colour will allow your picture to take centre stage. White on white is an easy match if you’re buying readymade frames, or contrasting black can add a Scandi feel.
On the other hand, a colourful frame taking a tone from your picture will make more of a statement. For example, is there red linework in your print? Match it to the frame.
Or if your artwork is super simple why not choose something jazzier with a colour or pattern that will pop against your walls? Or a fun texture, such as bobbles in a glossy finish, or with a wave pattern — both big hits with lovers of eclectic interiors right now, and there are some great affordable dupes.
If your style is quite classic, then a shade of wood which matches the rest of your furnishings will add warmth - try an oak or teak look. Alternatively, opt for a gold or bronze edging to wood, or as an all-over finish on the frame as this can make your print look more elevated.
However, don’t feel the need to be too prescriptive either, if that’s not your style. If you’re creating a gallery wall, a mix of print types in different frames on a neutral wall colour will form a fun focal point for the room. A statement frame for a photo going on your shelf will help it stand out amid other treasured items.
When it comes to putting your picture in the frame, be sure to do so on a clean surface and with the print having come straight from a protective wrapper - you don’t want any pesky dust or fluff making its way behind the frame.
Now you’re all prepped to choose your frames, here are the best on the high street.
Dunelm Bobbin Rhubarb Photo Frame, A4
This glossy, playful Bobbin frame is perfect for modern prints. It comes in 7 x 5” all the way up to A3, so you can frame everything from your favourite photos to big works of art.
Buy now £8.40, Dunelm
John Lewis Striped Wood-Effect Photo Frame, 4 x 6"
John Lewis’s textured, chunky picture frame can be displayed freestanding or can be wall-mounted to bring your family photos to life.
Buy now £12.00, John Lewis
IKEA SILVERHÖJDEN Frame, 21 x 30 cm
Bring a little bling to a favourite print with IKEA’s gold, textured frame. This larger size is perfect for a more traditional artwork.
Buy now £6.00
The Range Keswick Sage Rustic Frame, 8 x 10"
With a slightly aged look, this sage-coloured frame from The Range, which comes in sizes from 6 X 4” to A4 will complement rustic and country-inspired schemes perfectly. Combine it with a mix of other styles of simple wooden frames to create a gallery wall with a homey feel.
Buy now £2.49, The Range
Sklum Nupur Wooden Photo Frame Nupur, 50 x 70 cm
This simple untreated pine frame is perfect for Scandi, minimalist-inspired schemes.
Buy now £32.95, Sklum
Dunelm Fulton Natural and Black Photo Frame, A3
Dunelm’s smart A3 frame has a photo mat to fit A4 as well as A3 prints. The double edging in black and natural wood gives it a high-end feel.
Buy now £3.00, Dunelm
George at Asda Blue Curved Edge Frame 7 x 5", Set of 2
George’s cute cornflower frames come as a set with a wiggle edge to add a playful feel to your photos. They come with a stand so you can put them on your bedside or dressing table.
Buy now £5.00, George at Asda
IKEA PLOMMONTRÄD Frame, 50 x 70 cm
IKEA’s white-washed frame will add rustic texture to your walls. Perfect for pairing with nature-themed prints.
Buy now £19.00, IKEA
Disenio White picture frame, 70 x 100 cm
Desenio should be your go-to for big frames on a budget. They’re made with solid wood and shatterproof glass so they’ll stay strong on your walls and instantly elevate your prints with a simple design that lets the art do the talking.
Buy now £43.95, Desenio
Habitat Ontario Matte Finish Picture Frame, 50 x 70cm
If you want to invest in multiple black frames to make all of your art look cohesive and give a gallery vibe, Habitat’s Ontario frames come in plenty of sizes.
Buy now £18.66, Argos
