When most people think of wall art, they picture perfectly framed pieces. But unframed prints have a unique charm—they feel fresh, casual, and often more expressive. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or just beginning to decorate your space, displaying unframed art prints can add creativity, flexibility, and a more personal atmosphere to your home.
Let’s explore when and why you might want to go frameless—and how to do it beautifully.
Why Choose Unframed Prints?
There are plenty of reasons to embrace unframed prints:
Affordability: Framing can be costly. Going unframed means you can collect more art for less.
Flexibility: Move your pieces around more easily. No need to commit to one layout.
Raw Aesthetic: A slightly undone, gallery-style vibe adds authenticity and creative freedom.
Space Saving: Prints stored rolled or clipped take up less space—ideal for small apartments or studios.
Unframed art isn’t "unfinished"—it’s a style choice, and when done thoughtfully, it can look stunning.
Creative Ways to Display Unframed Prints
Washi Tape Borders
This Japanese masking tape comes in endless patterns and colors, making it perfect for stylish, damage-free hanging. Use it to create clean borders or playful frames around your prints.
Best for: Colorful or minimalist art where the tape adds contrast or a complementary touch.
Binder Clips or Bulldog Clips
Simple and industrial. Hang from nails, a wire, or a mounted wood strip. This method is great for rotating prints seasonally.
Best for: Your mixed media or graphic work with bold lines and textures.
Wooden Poster Hangers
Magnetic poster hangers clamp gently onto the top and bottom edges of a print. Sleek and reusable, these are ideal for Scandinavian or modern decor styles.
Tapestry-Style Hanging
Mount prints on linen, cotton, or canvas backings. Adds an earthy, bohemian vibe and protects the piece from curling.
Ideal for: Folklore and myth-inspired prints or anything with a rustic or narrative quality.
Floating Shelf Displays
Lean your prints against the wall on a shallow shelf. This creates a relaxed, curated gallery feel that you can easily rearrange.
Pin Boards & Grids
Perfect for creating a moodboard wall with your prints, sketches, or inspirational quotes. Easy to swap out and reimagine.
💡 Ideal for: Mixed sizes and statement typography art prints.
Binder Frame Pockets
Archival sleeves or clear clipboards protect prints while letting them stay unframed. Great for offices or rotating gallery corners at home.
Tips for Styling
Group by theme or color: Tie everything together with a shared tone or motif.
Mix print sizes: Combine small, medium, and large prints for visual interest.
Layer for depth: Lean one print over another or overlap slightly.
Use lighting: Add fairy lights, clip lights, or nearby windows to highlight textures and details.
Why Unframed Prints Are a Collector’s Dream
Especially for collectors of independent artist prints, unframed works offer access to more pieces, more frequently. They’re easy to store, rotate, and reimagine—turning your home into a living, evolving gallery.
By choosing unframed prints, you're not just saving money—you're embracing a more dynamic, personal relationship with art.
