When put together and hung professionally, floater frames can look great. They offer an eye-catching alternative to regular framing options, and showcase favourite artwork and photographs in an original way. However, floater frames can be ever so slightly tricky to get just right – so we’ve put together this simple guide to getting it spot on.
For this simple piece of DIY, you’ll need the following items:
- A floater frame (of course)
- A cradle to attach to the frame
- A mounted photograph (preferably on Foamex, foam board or quality card, and cut to match the dimensions of the cradle)
- Glue (the ideal glue will depend on the material of your frame and cradle)
- A drill and suitable screws
- A small art spatula
- Spacers (4 equally-cut small squares of your chosen mounting material)
- Small weights (to affix the mounted photograph to the cradle)
Step 1:
Using the spatula, spread glue alongside the four edges of the cradle that will face forwards when hung. Always check the guidance on the glue, as using too much of any adhesive could compromise the mount and photograph.
Step 2:
Then, affix the mounted photograph to the cradle, being sure to cover all of the cradle itself so that it will remain obscured when the floater frame is hung. If the glue needs to dry for a given duration, position the spacers flat over the four edges of the photo and place small weights on top of each one.
Step 3:
Once the glue has dried, place the cradle inside your floater frame. Use the spacers to separate the inside edge of the frame from the photograph (this is crucial to creating that innovative ‘floater frame’ effect you’re going for!). At this stage, you may also want to cover the photograph with protective card or cloth before you begin drilling.
Step 4:
The final stage in creating your floater frame is to drill the screws through the frame itself and into the cradle. With the spacers already in place, the best way to do this may be to position the frame on a table, with one side slightly away from its edge, and drill from below. Repeat this on all four sides of the frame to secure the cradle in place.
You can use the above four steps to create as many innovative floater frames as you want, and always achieve the standout result you’re hoping for. You could also apply similar techniques to hanging small canvasses and other artwork in the same way, and create a range of striking floater frames for the home or office.
Before we go, it must be added that we do stock a selection of original floater frames here on our site, featuring photographs and original artwork alike. Each floater frame has been designed and crafted by UK artist David Mason, highlighting his passion for nature, art and design.
Nonetheless, with these simple steps and a little creativity, you’ll have everything you need to showcase the things that inspire you, within a professional, unmissable floater frame of your own design.