Floater Frames

Nov 1

A versatile frame moulding for stretched canvas.

Floater frames are a sleek, modern way to display art that creates the illusion your piece is suspended within its frame rather than sitting inside it. By resting behind the canvas instead of overlapping it, floater frames add depth and drama without distraction, making them a favorite for gallery-style presentations. Curious how they work and why artists love them? Let’s dive in.

Why would you use a floater frame?

They allow the viewer to see the sides of a canvas.
They give stability to a canvas and prevent warping.
They can appear minimal or invisible.
They are available in a variety of colors, sizes and materials.

A floater frame is more versatile than you would imagine.

Using a floater frame can be a creative way to elevate your framing design. It allows you to add another layer to your moulding stack, introduce visual space between the artwork and the frame, extend the depth for shadowbox-style presentations, or simply add character to the overall look. Whether you're aiming for subtle elegance or bold contrast, floater frames offer versatility and style. We'd be happy to show you our collection and help you find the perfect match for your art.

Traditionally floater frames are used to rest behind a stretched canvas. It gives a clean, contemporary look.

You can also add a frame within a frame for a dramatic, multi-dimensional effect.

Sometimes you need to raise the art above the frame.

Gallery Wrap vs. Traditional Stretch

Traditionally stretched canvases are wrapped around shallow stretcher bars and secured to the sides, leaving the edges unpainted and staples visible. These canvases are typically intended to be framed before presentation, and their shallow depth allows them to fit inside standard frames.

Gallery wraps, on the other hand, are wrapped completely around the edges and secured to the back of the stretcher bars. The edges are painted and finished, with no visible staples or mounting hardware, making them suitable for display without a frame.

When using a floater frame, the depth of the stretcher bars becomes a matter of personal preference, depending on the visual effect you want to achieve. Regardless of the depth, it’s best to have the edges of the canvas painted—even a simple black edge works—since a small portion of the edge will remain visible within the floater frame. Ask us about your options and how to get the look you want.