Revamped Wall Art Strategy: Employ this framing tip to elevate any artwork's perceived value - it's a trick endorsed by my editor, and you shouldn't miss out either
In the world of interior design, creating a visually striking and luxurious atmosphere is key. One expert tip that has been gaining popularity is the use of oversized mounts to frame artworks. This simple yet effective trick can make even small or simple pieces look more expensive and curated.
Sienna Brooks, an interior stylist at Flitch, is a strong advocate of this framing trick. She advises keeping the frame simple and neutral to avoid it stealing the show. Heather Young, Editor-in-Chief of our platform, agrees and suggests going a few sizes up with frames or adding oversized mounts to make wall art look expensive.
Oversized mounts create breathing space around the artwork and draw the eye in. According to Sienna, this extra blank space around the art allows the piece to "breathe" and draws more attention, making even small or simple artworks look more luxurious and curated.
When choosing frames to complement oversized mounts, opt for clean, simple frames in materials like wood or metal. Minimalist frames prevent visual clutter and enable the mount to accentuate the art. A white or neutral-colored mount paired with a sleek frame is a classic choice.
For DIY painting ideas to accompany oversized mounting, consider creating large-scale abstract or geometric paintings that work well with large mounts and frames, as their shapes and colors stand out in expanded spaces. Use muted or monochromatic color schemes for your DIY pieces to keep the look sophisticated. Bold colors in large scale should be balanced carefully with frame and mount color.
When hanging oversized mounted art, use proper mounting hardware like wall anchors or picture-hanging hooks rated for the artwork’s weight to keep them secure and level. Make sure the piece is both centered and proportional to the wall or furniture it relates to.
Creating a balanced gallery wall or stacked arrangements can also benefit from using oversized mounts on key pieces to make a statement, while smaller pieces fill in the space. Begin with the biggest pieces first and build around them to maintain visual harmony and interest.
Mango Home offers a funky frame design with a stripe-printed, oversized mount. Heather Young, Editor-in-Chief of our platform, has used this trick in her guest bedroom, framing postcards with an oversized mount. Even postcards can look like they belong in a gallery with the use of oversized mounts and simple, neutral frames.
Sarah Goodwin's photo mounts can give art and photos space to breathe and make them look even more interesting. Go with a solid wood or even a metal frame, and think about unexpected tones; matte gunmetal, ebonised oak, or deep walnut feel very 2025. A pine IKEA frame can dull even a beautiful print, whereas a vintage or painted frame adds depth and character.
In essence, the oversized mount acts as a framing trick to elevate the look of any artwork by giving it breathing space and a polished, high-end feel, complemented by simple, quality frames and supported by secure hanging techniques. DIY paintings should be designed to work with this style for maximum impact.
Sara Hesikova, a Content Editor at our platform since June 2024, starting at the title as a News Writer in July 2023, has tested over 150 different sofas. Sara Hesikova is now also our platform Certified Expert in Training on Furniture.
Oversized mounts, as advocated by Sienna Brooks, can make even simple artworks appear luxurious and curated in the interior design world, by offering breathing space around the artwork and drawing attention. Paired with simple, neutral frames, oversized mounts can elevate the look of any artwork, creating a polished and high-end feel.
Heather Young, Editor-in-Chief, suggests considering large-scale abstract or geometric paintings for DIY projects, as their shapes and colors stand out in expanded spaces, matching the scale of oversized mounts.
