Display Like a Pro: Paint by Numbers Framing Guide

1) Decide first: glass or no glass?

Canvas (acrylic): usually no glass—you'll preserve the brush texture and avoid glare. Varnish is optional for protection and an even sheen.

Paper or canvas board: use glass or acrylic glazing plus a mat or spacers so the surface never touches the glazing.

The material of your paint-by-numbers kit significantly impacts your framing decisions. Understanding the fundamental differences between canvas and paper options helps determine the best protective and display strategies. Our detailed canvas vs paper paint-by-numbers comparison explains how material choice affects not only the painting process but also long-term preservation and optimal framing techniques.

2) Pick a frame style (canvas vs paper)

• Floater frame (canvas): modern, shows the canvas edge with a small "shadow gap." Great if you like a gallery look.
• Traditional frame (canvas): classic profile; add a linen liner for a museum feel.
• Standard frame with mat (paper/board): the mat creates breathing room and keeps your art off the glazing.
• Minimalist frame with spacers (paper/board): no mat visible; hidden spacers maintain a safe gap.

The choice between framed versus unframed presentation depends on your personal style and the specific requirements of your canvas material. Our detailed comparison of framed vs unframed paint-by-numbers options explores the pros and cons of each approach, helping you make an informed decision that best showcases your artistic achievement.

3) Prep your painting (flat, clean, dry)

• Make sure the paint is fully dry and dust-free before framing.
• If you prefer a unified sheen, apply a thin final varnish once the painting is dry (matte or satin reduces glare).
• Wipe frame/glazing parts with a microfiber cloth before assembly to avoid trapped lint.

4) Framing stretched canvas: floater frame

1. Place the canvas in the floater frame; center it so the gap is even on all sides.
2. Use D-rings or offset clips and screws into the stretcher bars (not the canvas) to secure the piece.
3. Add felt bumpers to the frame's back corners so it sits level and protects the wall.

5) Rolled or loose canvas: stretch or mount

If your canvas isn't stretched yet:

• Stretching: staple to stretcher bars, keeping even tension; then frame (floater or traditional).
• Mounting to board: attach to a rigid, acid-free panel and frame like a panel painting (no glazing needed unless you want extra protection).

6) Paper/board paintings: matting & glazing

1. Use acid-free mat board and backing. The window mat keeps paint off the glazing and gives a clean border.
2. Attach the artwork with archival hinges (Japanese paper + wheat starch paste) at the top edge, or use photo corners to avoid adhesives on the artwork.
3. Close the frame with a dust cover and add bumpers for airflow.

7) Choosing glazing: UV, glare & acrylic vs glass

• Best protection: "museum"-grade glass or acrylic blocks up to 99% UV and minimizes reflections.
• Glass vs acrylic: glass is scratch-resistant and heavy; acrylic is lighter and shatter-safe (great for large works or kids' rooms). Use spacers/mats to keep distance from the paint surface.
• Anti-glare: choose anti-reflective coatings instead of etched "non-glare," which can soften detail.

8) Hardware: D-rings, wire & bumpers

• Install D-rings about one-third down from the top of the frame; connect with coated hanging wire.
• Use wall anchors appropriate to the weight and wall type; check the hardware's load rating.
• Stick rubber bumpers on the bottom corners to protect paint and keep frames level.

9) Hanging height & gallery wall spacing

• For single pieces, set the artwork's center ~57″ (145 cm) from the floor—the typical gallery "eye level."
• Above furniture, keep the frame's bottom edge roughly 7–10″ above the top of the sofa/console.
• For gallery walls, keep 2–4″ between frames and maintain consistent gaps for a clean grid or salon layout.

10) Lighting & placement (avoid damage)

• Avoid direct sunlight and harsh UV sources. Choose LED lighting for low heat and low UV.
• Keep art away from high-humidity zones (bathrooms, steamy kitchens) and heat sources (radiators, fireplaces).
• If glazing is used, consider UV-filtering options and dimmer, angled lighting to reduce glare.

11) Styling ideas for every room

• Single hero: one large piece centered over a sofa or bed.
• Grid wall: identical frames in rows/columns for modern symmetry.
• Salon mix: varied sizes and frames; anchor with a central piece and build outward.
• Lean & layer: rest framed pieces on shelves or mantels for a casual, changeable display.

For those looking to create a truly personal gallery wall, consider incorporating custom paint-by-numbers creations alongside your standard kits. Custom pieces allow you to transform meaningful photographs into unique artworks that tell your personal story, creating a cohesive yet deeply personal display that reflects your individual journey and memories.

12) Care & cleaning

• Dust frames and canvases gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid household cleaners on varnished paint.
• Clean glazing with a microfiber cloth and a non-ammonia cleaner; spray the cloth, not the glazing.
• Re-level frames periodically—bumpers help keep everything aligned.

Proper maintenance ensures your finished artwork continues to look professional for years to come. For comprehensive guidance on preserving your painted creations, explore our collection of paint-by-numbers tips and techniques, which covers everything from paint application methods to long-term preservation strategies for optimal results.

13) Make your next piece with Paintby.ai

Ready to create your next masterpiece? With Paintby.ai, you can design a completely personalized paint-by-numbers kit from your favorite photo or concept. Create a subject you love, preview unlimited AI images, and get a complete kit—pre-printed canvas, premium acrylics, professional brushes, step-by-step instructions, and a DIY frame—with free worldwide shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.

Whether you're creating meaningful gifts, building a personal art collection, or simply enjoying the therapeutic benefits of guided painting, start your custom creation today and experience the satisfaction of transforming your most treasured memories into frameable works of art that you'll be proud to display for years to come.