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Framed Canvas Prints: How to Frame a Canvas

Framed canvas prints are where artful design meets personal storytelling—turning your favorite photos into gallery-worthy statement pieces. Whether you’re styling a blank wall, refreshing a room, or showcasing a milestone moment, a framed canvas print adds instant depth, texture, and polish to your space. But it’s more than just decoration—it’s a way to frame what matters most. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits of choosing a framed canvas, how to pick the right frame style for your home, and how to customize every detail to make it uniquely yours. If you’re looking to transform your space or give a gift that captures a moment forever, you’re in the right place.

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What is a Framed Canvas Print?

A framed canvas print is a photo or piece of artwork printed on artist-quality canvas material, stretched over a sturdy wooden frame, and finished with an outer decorative frame that gives it a polished, gallery-style look. Unlike traditional canvas prints, which have open edges, framed canvas prints are bordered in wood for a more refined presentation. They combine the textured, artistic feel of canvas with the elegance of a frame, making them perfect for both modern and classic interiors. Whether you’re highlighting a wedding photo, family portrait, or travel memory, a framed canvas adds visual interest and timeless charm to your walls.

canvas prints

Benefits of Framing Your Canvas Print

Framing your canvas print not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also offers practical advantages. Whether you’re creating a timeless piece of art for your home or looking for the perfect personalized gift, a frame can make all the difference in how your canvas is displayed. Here are the top benefits of adding a frame to your canvas print:

  • Polished Look: A frame provides a clean, finished appearance, adding sophistication to your artwork. It turns your photo into a statement piece that suits any room.
  • Enhanced Focus: The frame draws attention to your photo, making it the centerpiece of the space and highlighting the moments that matter most.
  • Added Protection: A frame helps preserve the integrity of your canvas, protecting the edges and ensuring its longevity for years to come.
  • Gallery-Worthy Style: Framed canvas prints are perfect for creating a polished, gallery-style display—whether as a standalone piece or part of a larger gallery wall.
  • Customizable Design: Choose from a variety of frame colors and styles, allowing you to match the frame to your home decor or personal taste for a completely unique look.

Framing not only protects your canvas but also amplifies its beauty, making it the perfect way to showcase your favorite memories in style.

woman hanging framed canvas prints on a wall

How to Frame a Canvas Print

Creating a framed canvas print with Shutterfly is a straightforward process that results in a beautiful, professional-quality display of your favorite photos. Follow these simple steps to customize your canvas print and add the perfect frame to showcase your cherished memories.

1. Select Your Canvas Print Template

Start by choosing a design template that suits your vision. Whether you want a single image, a photo collage, or a themed design, selecting the right template is the first step to bringing your wall art print to life.

2. Choose the Right Size and Orientation

Next, pick the size of your canvas print. From small photos to large statement pieces, there are various size options to fit your space. Be sure to choose the right orientation (portrait, landscape, or square) that complements your photo layout.

Tip: Consider the wall space where you’ll display the canvas to help you decide on the best size and orientation. Follow our guide on Canvas Print Sizes to pick the best one for your space.

3. Pick Your Frame Style and Color

Once you’ve selected your template and size, it’s time to choose your frame. Shutterfly offers several frame styles to complement any decor:

  • Black: A sleek and modern choice that works in almost any room.
  • White: Offers a clean and fresh look, ideal for contemporary spaces.
  • Rustic: Perfect for creating a cozy, farmhouse vibe.
  • Walnut: A rich, warm tone that pairs beautifully with earthy or vintage-themed spaces.
  • Metallic: Adds a touch of glam with modern, metallic finishes like gold, silver, or bronze.

Tip: If your photo has lots of bright colors, a neutral frame like black or white can help it pop. For more muted tones, a rustic or walnut frame adds character.

4. Upload Your Photos

Now it’s time to upload your photos! Choose images from your device or social media accounts (Facebook, Google Photos, or Amazon Photos.). Whether you have a single photo or a collection of images for a collage, upload them and see how they look in your selected template.

5. Customize the Design

Personalize your framed canvas even further by adjusting the design. Add text to commemorate a special date, choose a background color to complement your photo, or apply filters for a unique effect. This is your chance to make your canvas truly one-of-a-kind.

Tip: For a balanced look, make sure the text or filter doesn’t overpower the main image—let the photo be the focal point.

6. Preview and Order

Before you place your order, take a moment to preview your canvas print. Ensure everything is aligned, the frame color complements the photo, and the overall design looks just how you imagined. Once you’re happy with the design, place your order, and prepare to hang your new framed canvas on the wall!

Tip: Review the dimensions one last time to make sure it’s the perfect fit for your wall space.

How to Display Framed Canvas Prints

collection of framed canvas prints hanging on a wall

A framed canvas print isn’t just wall decor — it’s a statement piece that tells a story. Whether you’re working with a large focal-point canvas or a series of smaller prints, how you display them can make all the difference. Here are some inspiring and practical ways to show off your framed canvas pictures:

  1. Make It the Focal Point of a Room
    Choose a large framed canvas print and hang it above your sofa, bed, or mantel to instantly elevate the space. This creates a natural focal point and sets the tone for the rest of your décor. Pick a photo that means something — like a wedding portrait or favorite travel memory — to bring warmth and personality to the room.
  2. Create a Gallery Wall
    Combine multiple framed canvas prints in varying sizes to form a stylish gallery wall. Mix and match portraits, landscapes, quotes, or abstract designs. Stick to a cohesive frame color for a polished look or go eclectic for more personality. Lay them out on the floor first to test arrangements before hanging.
  3. Pair With Shelving
    Instead of hanging every piece, lean smaller framed canvas prints against the wall on floating shelves. Layer them with books, candles, or vases to create a curated, cozy vibe. This also makes it easy to swap prints out with the seasons or update your space without hammering new nails into the wall.
  4. Style in Unexpected Places
    Don’t limit canvas prints to the living room — framed pieces look beautiful in entryways, kitchens, bathrooms, or even stairwells. A single framed canvas in a powder room can make a huge impact, while a narrow vertical print fits perfectly in hallways or between windows.
  5. Use in Themed Displays
    Group canvas prints by theme — such as travel, family milestones, or nature — and hang them together for a storytelling effect. This works especially well for seasonal refreshes or creating mood-specific zones throughout your home, like a cozy reading nook or a hallway of happy memories.
  6. Lean on Ledges or Dressers
    If you’re not ready to commit to putting holes in the wall, prop framed canvas prints on furniture like dressers, desks, or console tables. It’s an easy way to add style without a long-term decision — and perfect for renters or decorators who love to rearrange often.

The way you display your framed canvas prints should reflect your style and tell your story. With a little creativity and intention, these prints can transform your home into a personal art gallery you’ll love coming home to.

How to Hang a Framed Canvas

Hanging your framed canvas print is quick and easy — no professional tools or hardware required. Each framed canvas comes ready to hang with a sturdy metal sawtooth hanger already attached to the back. Simply choose the perfect spot on your wall, use a nail or hook that supports the weight of your print, and align the sawtooth hanger for a secure hold. For best results, use a level to keep your canvas perfectly straight. Whether you’re creating a gallery wall or spotlighting a single piece, your framed canvas will be up and looking great in minutes.

Frequently Asked Question

What size options are available for framed canvas prints?
Framed canvas prints are available in a variety of sizes — from small 8×10 prints perfect for shelves or tight spaces, to large 30×40 statement pieces that anchor a room. With square, rectangular, and panoramic options, it’s easy to find the right size to match your wall and style.

What color frames can I choose from?
Available canvas frame colors include black, white, gold, metallic, natural, rustic, and walnut.

Can I create a photo collage on a framed canvas print?
Yes, Shutterfly provides options to create photo collages on canvas prints. You can select multiple images and arrange them in a variety of layouts.

Related Resources on Framing Canvas Prints

Creating a framed canvas print with Shutterfly is a simple and enjoyable process. With a variety of customization options and high-quality materials, you can create a stunning piece of art that beautifully displays your favorite memories. Start designing your framed canvas print today and transform your photos into timeless works of art. Additional Resources: