A beginner’s guide to framing your watercolour art.

You’ve mixed, washed, and layered your way to a finished painting and now it’s time to frame it. But how do you protect your delicate watercolour on paper, especially in the famously damp British climate? Whether it’s for a gallery wall or a gift, this guide walks you through the steps to frame your watercolour like a pro.

Why framing your watercolour matters

Watercolours are painted on paper, making them more vulnerable than canvas or boardbased work. Framing not only showcases your art, it protects it from moisture, dust, warping, and UV damage. Framing your own watercolour artwork is both satisfying and simple once you know the basics. The right frame turns your creation into a piece you can proudly share with the world.

A step-by-step how to guide for framing your watercolour

Choose the right frame

Choose a frame that fits your artwork or can be cut to size. You can buy standardsized frames (like A4, A3, 30x40cm) or have one custom made. Light wood or white frames complement most watercolours, especially florals and landscapes. Black frames suit bold or abstract work.

Use a mount (mat board)

A mount is the white or coloured border that sits between the painting and the frame. It stops the painting from touching the glass (which can cause mould or pigment lifting). You can buy ready-cut mounts or order custom ones to fit your frame and painting. A bevel-cut mount keeps the painting from touching the glass

Attach your artwork safely

Use acid-free tape or mounting corners to hold your painting to the mount or backing board. Avoid sticking tape directly onto the front or edges of your painting as it can cause tears or stains. Leave a little breathing room so the paper can expand and contract with humidity.

Add glazing (glass or acrylic)

Glass is more traditional and scratch-resistant. Acrylic (perspex) is lighter and safer for shipping or kids’ rooms. For added protection, look for UV-filtering glazing to prevent fading. Protects the surface from moisture and dust.

Secure the backing

Place the mount (with painting attached) into the frame. Add the backing board behind it and secure everything with the clips or fasteners. Optional: Tape the back edges with framers’ tape for a dust seal.

Add hanging hardware

Most shop-bought frames come with hooks or D-rings. For heavier frames, consider using cord and proper wall fixings especially on older plaster walls.

Beginner tips

If you're new to watercolour, don't stop here! Explore our other beginner-friendly guides to learn all you need to progress and develop your watercolour skills.

• Practice with prints: Try framing practice sketches or art prints before working on originals.
• Start with ready-made frames: Shops like Hobbycraft, The Range, or IKEA offer affordable UK options.
• Mind the paper warp. If your paper is slightly warped, flatten it by pressing it under books between sheets of clean paper. Leave it for a day or two before framing.

Caring for your framed watercolour

Avoid direct sunlight: Even with UV glass, watercolours can fade over time.

Keep it dry: Don’t hang in bathrooms or kitchens unless well ventilated.

Dust gently: Use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the frame, not glass cleaner.

---