Portfolio & Inspiration: Discover Our Framing Styles

Welcome to our Portfolio & Inspiration page, where we showcase real interior spaces featuring Osner Framing’s custom-crafted pieces. Each project highlights our commitment to quality and design flexibility, from minimalist wood finishes to classic, hand-painted mouldings. Whether you’re seeking modern simplicity or a more traditional look, browse our collection of photographs to spark ideas for your next framing project.

Featured Projects

Explore a selection of real-world examples where our custom frames complement a variety of artworks, décor styles, and colour palettes. Each image showcases our framing style and modern finish so you can get a feel for how Osner Framing enhances any interior.

Contemporary Paper Border Mount

This method involves printing your photograph on high-quality cotton rag paper with an extended border that acts as the mount. We then vacuum-mount the print onto museum-grade, acid-free board, and use archival glass placed directly against the paper. Paired with a simple box-type frame, this approach offers a sleek, minimalist presentation—keeping the focus on the artwork rather than elaborate surrounds or matboards.

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Our 4 Most Popular Framing Techniques

At Osner Framing, we focus on simple but highly effective methods highlighting the artwork rather than the frame. After years of perfecting our craft, these four timeless approaches consistently deliver beautiful, long-lasting results—no matter the art style or interior décor.

Deep Shadow Float

In this technique, we bring the glass to the front of the frame and secure it with a lined interior—often in white, though it can be custom-coloured. The print is “floated” on a raised mount, leaving a neat gutter of space around the artwork and casting a subtle shadow. This not only adds depth but also creates a light, airy presentation.

We hinge the piece with archival tape for limited-edition or high-value prints to preserve its integrity. When a perfectly flat look is desired, we vacuum mount the print onto an archival board and carefully back-cut it for a seamless floating appearance. The result is a simple yet striking display that truly lets the artwork shine.

Elevated Shadow Mat

Similar to our deep shadow float method, we bring the glass forward using a lined interior, but here we introduce a raised mat board that presses up against the glass. The artwork or print is then mounted behind this mat, creating a subtle shadow line and adding depth to the presentation.

This style is a modern twist on the classic mat-and-frame approach. By elevating the mat instead of laying it flat against the artwork, the resulting shadow gives a fresh, contemporary look—perfect for those who love traditional framing techniques but want a more current aesthetic.

Shadow Line Surround Frame

Perfect for canvas artwork or flat pieces on wood or metal, this modern take on a classic method features a simple L-shaped moulding. The front edge is kept visually light, while the base of the moulding provides structural support. A small gutter—typically 5 to 7mm—is left between the artwork and the frame, creating a subtle shadow line that gives the piece a floating appearance.

Canvases are first stretched and then mounted into the frame, while flat artworks are raised on a built-up interior so they sit closer to the front. The result is beautifully simplistic yet refined, with a clean, airy feel that highlights the artwork rather than overpowering it.

The Perfect Frame

In the following article, Martin Osner—owner of Fine Art Picture Framers—shares his expert insights into the art of custom picture framing. Drawing on over 35 years of experience, he discusses everything from archival materials to modern framing methods, offering practical tips to help you showcase and protect your artwork for years to come..

When it comes to custom picture framing in Cape Town, choosing the right frame is as important as selecting the artwork itself. At Osner Framers, we understand that a well-chosen frame enhances and preserves your art for years. Below are some key factors to consider when choosing a frame.

The Importance of Archival and Conservation Quality

Ensuring your artwork’s longevity begins with archival, conservation-quality framing. Substandard materials can cause irreversible damage over time, especially to prints. Our bespoke framing solutions use acid-free mounts, UV-protective glass, and robust backing to guard your pieces against environmental factors such as light and moisture.

Simplicity over Elaborate Designs

One common mistake is selecting frames that overshadow the artwork. At Osner Framers, we advocate for simple, clean frames that allow your art to take centre stage. A minimalist approach ensures the artwork remains the focal point, amplifying its visual impact without needless distractions.

Frame Size and Finish: Achieving Balance

The size of the frame significantly influences the overall presentation. We prefer uncomplicated, clean frames with square or sloped edges, bringing a modern touch while maintaining elegance. These styles work seamlessly with a wide range of artwork—from photography to large canvases—ensuring a cohesive look in virtually any interior.

Natural Wood vs Synthetic Frames: Why Authenticity Matters

Choosing natural wood frames over synthetic alternatives adds authenticity and warmth to your artwork. Wood feels more genuine and timeless, whereas synthetic frames can appear artificial and distract from the piece's integrity. Our frames are made from high-quality natural wood, combining durability with a refined aesthetic.

Quality of Joinery: Built to Last

A frame’s longevity hinges on the quality of its joinery; poorly joined corners can loosen over time. At Fine Art Picture Framers, we use blind screws and glue to secure our frames, ensuring they stay intact and rigid for decades to come.

Hanging Devices: Stability and Precision

Proper hanging techniques are crucial for preserving your frame’s alignment and preventing damage. We use two anchor points rather than string or wire, which can place undue stress on the corners. This method guarantees the frame sits flat against the wall and avoids leaning or skewing—common issues that undermine the artwork’s presentation.

Glass Options: Protecting Your Art from UV Damage

The right glass enhances the artwork’s clarity and offers vital protection. We recommend museum-grade, anti-reflective glass with UV protection in brightly lit rooms. Prolonged UV exposure causes colours to fade and materials to degrade, making quality glass essential for preserving vibrancy and integrity.

High-Moisture Areas: Taking Additional Precautions

When displaying frames in high-moisture environments like bathrooms, extra care is essential. We seal the frames to block moisture ingress and include small spacers on the back to encourage airflow, reducing the risk of mould or warping. We also utilise high gallery-quality Perspex glass for large pieces that require shipping, preventing breakage and ensuring safe transit.

Frame Colours: Versatility for Any Décor

Our palette of frame colours includes white, black, charcoal, and various natural wood tones. By guiding our colour choices in the workshop, we maintain control over the final look, ensuring each frame complements the artwork and its surrounding décor.

Modern Frames: Revitalising Older Artwork

A modern frame can dramatically refresh and revitalise older artwork, giving it a contemporary allure. This approach enhances the piece’s overall presence, blending effortlessly into modern interiors while bridging the gap between classic and current styles.

Our Quality Commitment: No Shortcuts

Picture framing demands meticulous attention to detail. At Osner Framers, we take pride in upholding the highest quality standards, knowing that even small mistakes or compromises can affect an artwork’s appearance and longevity. With over 35 years of experience, we ensure each frame we produce meets international standards of excellence.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect frame goes beyond aesthetics—it encompasses material quality, construction, and the artwork’s specific requirements. At Osner Framers, our bespoke, conservation-focused services in Cape Town and surrounding areas guarantee that your art is beautifully presented and carefully protected. Rely on our expertise for cost-effective, high-quality frames built to stand the test of time.

About the Author: Martin Osner owns Osner Framers, a leading custom picture framing service in Hout Bay, Cape Town. With over 35 years of experience in the art industry, Martin offers bespoke, conservation-quality framing solutions for galleries, artists, and the public. As an artist, his emphasis on craftsmanship and uncompromising quality has established Fine Art Picture Framers as a trusted name in the field.

The craftsmanship at Fine Art Picture Framers is unparalleled. Their bespoke framing truly enhances my artwork, making it a centerpiece in my gallery. Highly recommended!

Sarah Lee

★★★★★