How to Choose the Right Frame for Bold Colour and Abstract Art

If you're like Denis, a client who commissioned a portrait from me, then this blog is not for you.

The portrait stage went swimmingly, then I needed to choose Denis a frame. I spent quite a while using colour theory and other arty decisions before arriving at a number of suggestions. After scratching his chin and frowning for a few minutes he declared none of them would do, as they didn't match the other frames in his sitting room. I looked up and scanned the wall and, sure enough, all the artwork in his room was framed in the same sage green colour.

Unlike Denis, I believe it's important to choose a frame which complements the colour of the picture. For example, my abstract floral pieces are very colourful but include a strong black outline to add a kind of relief to the picture elements. A slim black frame therefore echoes this outline feature without competing with the bold colour.

Here is a simple guide to choosing the perfect frame to complement abstract pieces, created in partnership with my go-to studio for framing and printing, Love to Frame.

1. The Power of the “Floating” Frame (Great for Originals)

If you own an original painting on a stretched canvas — such as an acrylic and charcoal piece with heavy texture — a canvas float frame is almost always the best option.

How it works: The canvas sits inside a wooden box frame, but with a small gap (usually about 5mm to 10mm) between the edge of the canvas and the inside of the frame.

Why it works: It looks as though the painting is floating inside the frame. Crucially, it leaves 100% of the painted canvas visible, ensuring no details or textures around the edges are covered up.

Beware: If the painting is on a canvas which isn't exactly in proportion — especially if it's meant to be square — buying an off-the-shelf floating frame can mean there is an uneven gap around your painting. This is really obvious with a floating frame because the gap is visible. A bespoke frame fitted by a professional is always going to give the best results.

2. When to Use a Mount (Best for Prints)

For fine art paper prints or soft pastel pieces, you will generally want a traditional frame that includes a mount (the cardboard border surrounding the art).

Provide breathing room: A wide, neutral mount gives a vibrant, energetic abstract piece a quiet space to rest. This draws the viewer's eye directly into the colours of the artwork.

Keep it clean: A bright white or soft off-white mount is universally flattering for modern abstract art. Avoid highly coloured mounts, which will compete with the tones in the artwork.

3. Choosing the Right Colour and Material

The frame should complement the art, not overpower it. For contemporary abstract work, simpler is usually better.

• Natural Wood (Oak or Ash): Perfect for pieces featuring organic shapes, florals, or earthy tones. It adds warmth to a room without distracting from the canvas.
• Sleek Black: Ideal for abstract art that incorporates dark line work or charcoal elements. It provides a crisp, dramatic, and modern border.
• Clean White: A great choice if you want the artwork to feel light, airy, and seamlessly integrated into a modern, minimalist wall space.

However if, like Denis, you prefer everything in sage green then that's ok too — it's your purchase and your choice!

Need Expert Advice?

If you are looking for high-quality, professional framing in the UK, I highly recommend chatting with the team at Love to Frame, who beautifully handle my studio framing needs.

If you are currently looking for a new injection of colour to brighten your home, browse my available collection of original paintings and prints in the Abstract Florals Gallery.