Common Framing Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

So, you’ve got a beautiful piece you want to frame. Maybe it’s a vibrant piece of art, a cherished family photo, or a bit of prized sports memorabilia. Whatever it is, framing should make it shine and keep it safe for years to come. But here’s the thing: it’s easy to get framing wrong.

At Portfolio Picture Framers, we see the same common framing mistakes over and over. The good news? They’re easy to avoid once you know what to look out for. So, before you order picture frames online or rush into a quick DIY job, take a moment to learn from the errors we’ve seen too often. This guide will help you make smart, stylish, and lasting choices so your piece comes out beautifully framed every time.

Mistake 1: Trusting sticky hangers with something valuable

Sticky hooks and adhesive strips are handy, sure. But they’re just not made for the weight of a glass-covered frame, especially in Australian humidity. Over time, the adhesive gives way, and the result is often a damaged wall, shattered glass, or worse, a ruined artwork.

The fix: If your piece matters to you, use proper hanging hardware. Screws, wall plugs, or purpose-made hooks offer the security your frame needs. Whether it's custom picture framing, photo framing, or memorabilia framing, the right hanging solution keeps everything intact and on the wall where it belongs.

Mistake 2: Picking the wrong matboard colour

It might seem like a great idea to match your matboard to a bold colour in your artwork, but too often, it ends up stealing the spotlight. Instead of drawing attention to the piece, a mismatched mat can make the whole thing feel off balance or overwhelming.

What works: Let your artwork breathe. Neutral tones like soft and off whites and soft colours that compliment colours that feature heavily in the artwork work best for softer and lighter artworks.They allow your piece to shine naturally, enhancing its presence rather than competing with it. The right framing materials bring sophistication and balance, giving your piece of art the stage it deserves.

Mistake 3: Chasing trends without considering practicality

Minimalist, thin black frames are everywhere online. And they do look stylish until they’re holding up a large, heavy artwork. Here’s the truth: a thin frame isn’t always strong enough to support the weight of glass and backing. That sleek look can quickly turn into a structural problem.

A better approach: If you’re going big, go strong. We’ll help you achieve a modern look while using the right materials to support the size and weight of your piece. From bold canvases to large-format photo printing, structure should never take a back seat to style. Our framing service takes into account not just aesthetics, but safety and longevity too.

Mistake 4: Letting price be the only decision-maker

Everyone loves a good deal, but when it comes to framing, cutting corners can be costly. Poor quality frames, acidic mats, and cheap backing materials can damage your piece over time. And that’s not always visible until it’s too late.

Our tip: Ask the right questions. Is the glass UV-protective? Are the materials acid-free? Is the mounting reversible? We only use high-quality framing materials because we believe your memories deserve better than a budget job. Whether you’re preserving sports memorabilia or looking to print and frame photos, craftsmanship and care matter.

Mistake 5: Trying to match your decor a little too perfectly

We get it, you want your frame to look good in the room. But trying to match the matboard to your wall paint or the frame to your lounge can backfire. Over-matching can make the piece feel disconnected or out of place, especially as trends (and furniture) change.

What works better: Think harmony, not identical. Aim to complement your space rather than match it. A well-chosen frame should enhance both your artwork and your interiors. And when done right, it creates a look that feels natural, timeless, and completely you. We offer a wide range of framing styles and finishes to suit both your piece and your space.

So, how do you get framing right?

It’s simple. Work with someone who cares. At Portfolio Picture Framers, we don’t just offer custom picture framing; we offer guidance, creativity, and experience. Whether it’s your first piece or your fiftieth, we take the time to understand your style, your story, and what matters to you.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Warm, expert advice from start to finish
  

• A stunning range of high-quality frames and finishes
  

• Acid-free framing materials
  

• UV-protective and non-reflective glazing options
  

• Reversible mounting techniques for peace of mind
  

• In-house services to print and frame photos
  

• Specialised solutions for photo framing and memorabilia framing
  

• A framing service that’s all about long-term value, not quick fixes

From a framed certificate to a gallery wall of family photo memories, we’ll help you bring your vision to life beautifully and professionally.

Let’s make your piece something special

Framing is about more than style. It’s about honouring what you love. Whether you’re protecting an original piece of art, celebrating a milestone, or showcasing sports memorabilia, avoid the shortcuts that compromise quality.

Visit us or get in touch to chat about your framing project. At  Portfolio Picture Framers, we make sure everything you value gets the care and attention it deserves so it comes out beautifully framed, every time.