FRAMING IDEAS

Deep profile cradle board stands independently.

"The Deep Spots" by Melissa Stephens is seen here in a floater frame. These frames protect the edges and corners or an encaustic painting without touching it.

Example of a floater frame that protects the sides, but does not overlap.

Purchased by a colleague, Melissa Stephens' small painting was mounted on a piee of reclaimed wood and hung by a wire on the wall.

Painting mounted on reclaimed wood.

An easy way of displaying mini paintings is to lean them against a sturdy item, like a stack of books or a wall. Most of Melissa's paintings come with a sticky-backed or saw toothed hanger attached to the back. Wire hangers are attached to all works on cradle board or in frames. Some cradle board is deep enough to stand up on it's own!

Other options are to display paintings on mini wooden or acrylic hinged easels or to mount your new artwork on reclaimed wood or another sound surface.

When framing with a mat, you can leave the glass area open, or if you put in glass, be sure to raise it so it doesn't touch the encaustic surface.

Framing is a nice option. However it is important that you follow a few rules when framing encaustic artwork. If matting & framing in an enclosed style, be certain that the glass or plexiglas is raised above, and not touching the surface of your painting.

Leaving an encaustic painting exposed is a great option when framing. I recommend using what is called a "floater frame." A floater frame keeps the painting edges off and away from the frame's edge, but still protects the painting.

When the encaustic painting is left exposed, it allows you to lightly dust and buff the surface for a shiny top layer. Use a seamless, lint-free cloth, and gently rub in small circles across your artwork to brighten the shine.

Like all fine artwork, do not display your art in direct sunlight. Filtered or indirect sunlight is ok. Unlike fine artwork, you can touch the surface of your encaustic painting. The oils in your skin help to condition the beeswax and can help create a beautiful shine to the surface.