When most people choose a picture frame, they focus on the colour or look. But the real difference between an ordinary frame and a professional-grade, long-lasting one lies deeper. The materials, construction, glazing, and finishing techniques all affect how your artwork will age.
Whether you’re browsing unique photo frames online, comparing large photo frames for a statement wall, or visiting a local frame store in Australia, understanding the key components of a high-quality frame can help you protect your piece and achieve the best results.
If you are wondering whether to frame a picture yourself or leave the job to the professionals, we’ve leveraged our years of high-quality picture framing expertise to provide the following article. Keep reading to find out what photo frame retailers won't tell you about the construction of a good-quality picture frame.
The Picture Frame Profile
A frame is more than a decorative border. Strong, well-finished timber makes a big difference, especially in larger pieces. Profile frames need to match the size and weight of your artwork. Small photo frames generally suit slimmer profiles, while large photo frames need wider, stronger mouldings to prevent bowing and ensure strong corners. The right profile also sets the tone, ranging from minimalist designs to more elegant photo frame styles. The actual frame itself is a protective and decorative edging usually made from wood, available in various colours, finishes, widths, depths, and designs.
Whether you’re considering a large or small picture frame, in a simple or extravagant design, it is important to understand how to choose the right picture frame size.
The Glazing
The glazing is the first layer of protection for your artwork against the external environment. Without this protective barrier, your glass picture frame is vulnerable to damage from dust, physical impact, humidity, and condensation. Picture frame glazing is usually made using either glass or acrylic, both of which come in several options depending on the level of protection required and your budget. Starting with Premium Clear Glass, this is a high quality option ideal for every day framing. From there, we offer Non-Glare and Museum Glass (high UV protection) options. Acrylic Perspex is available in clear and UV protective options and is ideal for larger wall photo frames where hanging weight is a concern.
The Matboard
A matboard does more than add a decorative border. It creates breathing space between your artwork and the glazing. Without it, prints can stick to the glass - something that can happen easily in humid Australian homes.
Matboards also shape the final look of the piece. They can be subtle or bold, and have single, double, or even triple layers depending on how much depth you want to introduce. Our collection offers a large range of colours and finishes, with a bright white core for a clean-cut bevel. Black core mats are also an option.
For pieces that need extra protection, we also stock a variety of conservation-quality matboards, including acid-free Rag Mats and museum-quality mats for the ultimate level of conservation framing. Our range of 100% cotton, museum-quality mats are naturally acid-free and they adhere to the Fine Art Trade Guild and Professional Picture Framers Association specifications. This makes them ideal for valuable originals or irreplaceable artwork.
The Backing
The backing board sits behind the artwork, providing a rigid and sturdy backing to prevent your artwork from moving or warping.
We offer two main types of backing: a basic foam core and adhesive foam core. Adhesive options can be useful for certain projects, but they’re not suitable for anything valuable or irreplaceable, as the artwork bonds to the surface. Frame Today only uses acid-free foam core, which prevents discoloration or browning of your piece. Even our cost-effective, ready-made photo frame range use acid-free backing board.
Sealing Out Dust
This is the final but often overlooked step in professional framing. A high-quality frame should be sealed at the back to keep out dust, insects, and other small particles. There are various ways to seal the back of a frame, some of which look more aesthetically appealing than others, but they all achieve the same results if done correctly. We usually use framers tape to seal the backing and frame, which has an additional benefit of holding the framers' points in place and your artwork secure.
Watch our video on ‘How to Tape a Picture Frame’ where we'll show you a simple and effective method to seal the back of your picture frame.
Print & Frame
If you want to print photos from your phone or camera and frame them professionally, our print & frame service offers premium quality results. You upload your photo, select a size and choose a frame to suit, and we deliver a beautiful framed print, ready to hang.
Alternatively, you can visit any of our stores and choose from our full range of custom picture frames that offer great-value for money.
What Most People Overlook When Choosing a Picture Frame
Choosing the right picture frame involves more than just matching colours to your décor. There are many key factors that play a role in how long your artwork will last.
Consider the Environment
The room or location where you hang the frame can directly affect how well it lasts. Bright rooms with exposure to sunlight require UV-safe glazing to prevent fading. Humid spaces like bathrooms or coastal homes often benefit from sealed hardwood frames that resist moisture damage. High-traffic zones such as hallways demand sturdy frames that won’t flex or loosen.
When browsing photo frames online, think about placement first. A delicate frame that looks elegant in a showroom might not last very long in a busy family room.
Material Quality Matters
Low-cost frames can often twist, crack, or warp. High-quality timber stays stable over time. This is particularly important for pieces you want to last. Choose frames that are solid with secure joints and finishes that won’t crack or peel.
Start With a Quality Print
Even the best frame can’t make an average print look amazing. For a better quality photos, use archival inks and premium paper. When paired with the right glazing, these materials keep colours vibrant and prevent fading for years to come.
Weight and Wall Considerations
Heavy frames need proper wall anchors. Drywall anchors, wall studs, or professional mounting systems can prevent accidents from occurring. Consider the frame weight before choosing a location and remember that some walls simply can’t support large pieces safely.
Why Custom Picture Framing Is Worth It
Ready-made frames are suitable for standard size prints, photos and certificates, but custom frames provide precision, acid-free material options, and complete flexibility in size and design. They’re ideal for keepsakes, posters, jerseys, artwork, and other valuable items.
Here are many reasons why professional custom picture framing is worth the investment:
- Ensures a perfect fit for unusual or non-standard sizes, avoiding gaps or pressure on the artwork.
- Allows you to choose from a wide range of profile frames, colours, and finishes to match your décor.
- Uses conservation-grade materials that protect against fading, yellowing, and moisture damage.
- Offers better structural strength, especially for large photo frames or heavier pieces.
- Provides the option to use museum-grade glazing for enhanced UV protection.
- Provides professional mounting techniques that keep artwork flat and secure over time.
- Accommodates 3D objects, such as medals, baby shoes, certificates, or collectables, perfect for memorabilia framing.
- Enables layering techniques such as double or triple matboards for a more polished look or you can even add a v-groove for extra sophistication.
- Makes it easier to create an elegant photo frame style tailored to your home.
- Offers expert design from qualified framers on colour choices, preservation methods, and display ideas.
- Enhances the visual impact of a high-quality photo or artwork.
- Ensures the frame ages well, thanks to higher-quality materials and craftsmanship.
- Allows you to design unique combinations that aren’t available in photo frame online stores.
Get the Best Quality Print and Frame Services in Australia
If you are looking for professional framing that will help your artwork last, we offer expert services across 14 locations in New South Wales and Brisbane, Queensland. We back every frame with a lifetime guarantee on workmanship and materials. For a quick turnaround, ask about our same-day picture framing service.
Come in store and our expert framers can help you select the right frame materials that will help protect your artwork so it lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re framing a family photograph, valuable artwork, or prized memorabilia, we’ll create a custom framing solution that enhances and preserves what matters to you.
Find a perfect high-quality picture frame near you and discover the difference that professional framing can make.
