When Framing Your Art, Here Are Some Tips To Keep In Mind: Choose a frame that complements the painting and does not compete with it. The painting and frame should work together to create a unified and harmonious image. Not all paintings need elaborate frames. Abstract paintings often look better with extremely simple frames. It is not necessary to frame paintings that were created on gallery wrap canvas and have painted sides. However, if you purchased the painting as a long-term investment, it is advisable to frame the painting in order to be sure that it is the frame, and not the painting’s stretcher bars, that absorb the stress of hanging the painting. A suitable, high-quality frame can really enhance a painting and can significantly elevate its perceived value. If you are matting and framing works on paper, it is advisable to use mat board that is acid free and lignin free if you are concerned that the framing be of archival quality. I often use archival quality mounting strips when framing work on paper. These are made in such a way that the adhesive never actually comes in contact with the art. If adhesive is necessary, use either a tape or adhesive that was made to be archival. Ordinary tape will eventually discolor. Ordinary glue might also eventually discolor. There is much debate about whether or not you should put a backing on paintings on canvas, and there are good arguments on both sides of the issue.