Affordable Art Framing Ideas (That Look Luxe)
Proof that affordable frames plus a little styling creates wall-worthy magic!
Framing, the glamorous finishing touch that somehow always comes with a price tag big enough to make you sweat into your sketchbook. But fear not - looking fancy doesn’t have to cost as much as the artwork itself.
Whether you're an artist prepping for a show, a collector styling your wall, or a creative soul who just wants your art to sparkle, here are some budget-friendly framing ideas that’ll give your pieces the “wow” factor—without blowing the budget.
Go Off-the-Shelf (Then Glam It Up)
Ready-made frames from home décor stores can look surprisingly upscale with just a little love.
How to do it:
Head to shops like Kmart, IKEA, Target or Spotlight for simple, minimal frames
Upgrade the mat board with a custom-cut acid-free one from a local framer or art shop
Paint the frame with gold, black or matte spray paint for a luxe look
Swap out plastic for real glass if possible (hello, clarity!)
Pro tip: A wider mat instantly makes a frame feel more ‘gallery’ and less ‘student poster.’
From cheap and cheerful to gallery-ready – all it takes is paint, a new mat, and a bit of imagination.
Embrace the Float Frame Illusion
Float mounting (where the artwork sits on top of the mat or appears suspended) is a modern look that screams high-end.
How to do it:
Use foam tape or mounting corners to float the artwork in the centre of a larger frame
Leave plenty of negative space around the piece for that professional designer touch
Secure it on archival backing and pop the whole thing behind glass or acrylic
Bonus points if you add a shadowbox-style frame for depth!
Float mounting gives instant designer vibes.
Scour Second-hand Stores & Op Shops
Op shops are treasure troves for unique, well-made frames that just need a freshen-up.
How to do it:
Look for solid wood or metal frames with glass
Don’t worry about the weird art or photos of strangers inside - you can replace that!
Sand, paint or polish the frame to suit your vibe
Resize mats or backing boards to fit your own art
It’s sustainable AND stylish - win-win.
Go hunting for gems at your local op shop then give them a second (and far prettier) life!
DIY Your Own Frame from Timber Trim
If you’re a bit handy or enjoy a Bunnings visit as much as a gallery stroll, try making your own frame!
How to do it:
Buy timber trim or moulding (ask for picture framing moulding if available)
Cut pieces to size with a mitre box or have them cut at the hardware store
Nail, glue or clip together and stain or paint as you like
Add artwork using frame clips or flexible points
Not Martha Stewart? Grab a crafty friend, promise them cake, and make it a DIY day.
DIY framing is part art project, part weekend therapy.
Clip Frames, But Make Them Classy
Clip frames get a bad rap, but they can look great for minimal or modern art.
How to do it:
Choose high-quality ones with real glass and clean metal clips
Only use for unframed prints or works on paper (not bulky canvases!)
Mount the piece on a coloured backing paper or linen-textured sheet to add contrast
Use multiple clip frames in a grid for a modern gallery wall look
This is one of the easiest, fastest ways to frame a print and still make it look intentional.
Clip frames are cheap but can be really striking!
Think Beyond Traditional Frames
Who says frames have to be, well… frames?
How to do it:
Use bulldog clips and hang from decorative hooks for an industrial feel
Try wooden pants hangers (yes, really!) for a fun, casual way to display prints
Mount art on foam board and pop it in a floating acrylic frame
Display on small easels or in shadow boxes for 3D or mixed media work
The trick is to repeat the look in several places and make it feel deliberate - own your creative choices with confidence!
Who needs frames when pants hangers look this good!
Final Thoughts: It’s All About the Finish
At the end of the day, it’s not about how expensive the frame is - it’s about how thoughtful the presentation feels. A little polish, a little planning, and you’ve got yourself a display-worthy piece that looks like it came straight out of a boutique gallery.
So go ahead and play frame stylist - get scrappy, get creative, and remember: your art deserves to shine, no matter your budget.
