December is one of the most impactful months of the year for giving something personal, thoughtful, and lasting to those we care about. While framed art has always been a classic gift, there’s a growing shift towards custom picture framing.
If you’re looking for a gift that feels personal but still polished, custom framing is one of the best ways to transform anything special into a real keepsake.
But how do you choose the right frame when there are so many options: wood types, profiles, glass types, mounts, colours and finishes?
Whether you’re framing a print, an original artwork, a photograph, or a sentimental object, this guide will walk you through the process and help you choose a frame that feels perfect for Christmas gifting.
Start by thinking about the person you’re gifting to
Great framing begins with understanding the personality and taste of the person receiving the gift.
Ask yourself:
- Do they prefer a minimal, modern look?
- Are they drawn to warm woods and a natural aesthetic?
- Do they love bold colours or statement pieces?
- Is their home neutral and calm, or vibrant and eclectic?
Match the frame to the artwork, not just the room
While the décor matters, the artwork always comes first. A frame’s role is to support the piece without overpowering it.
For prints and photography
Sleek, simple mouldings work best: matte black, white, or pale hardwoods.
Float mounting works beautifully for prints with deckled or uneven edges, giving a contemporary, gallery-quality finish.
For paintings or textured works
A deeper tray frame can give the artwork breathing space and elevate its presence. Choose a wood tone that complements the dominant colours.
For sentimental pieces
Tickets, textiles, holiday cards, children’s drawings: these deserve a frame that protects and celebrates them. Shadow boxes, spacers, and conservation materials help preserve fragile items for the long term.
Choose the right mount or no mount at all
The mount can transform the feel of a piece.
Why use a mount?
- It adds space and helps the artwork breathe
- It directs attention to the image
- It prevents the artwork from touching the glass
White or off-white mounts are the most timeless options, but for bolder gifts, a coloured mount such as deep navy, forest green, or charcoal, can create a dramatic edge.
When to skip the mount
Certain contemporary prints or large-format photos look cleaner without one. In those cases, a float mount or a narrow space between the image and frame can be ideal.
Select the glass based on longevity and display environment
Your gift should age beautifully. This is where glazing matters more than most people realise.
- Standard glass
- Affordable, but offers limited protection and may create glare.
- Non-reflective glass
Great for pieces that will sit opposite windows or in well-lit rooms.
UV or museum glass
If the artwork has sentimental or financial value, this is the best choice. Museum glass offers clarity, anti-reflective coating, and UV protection to preserve colours and paper.
Think about scale and impact
If you’re gifting art to someone in a smaller house or apartment, consider how the piece will sit in their space.
A larger frame often creates more impact and can make a room feel more considered, especially when hung above a sofa or bed.
On the other hand, a set of two or three smaller framed prints can feel more personal and flexible; easy to arrange and perfect for gallery walls. December is a great time to create a themed set: winter landscapes, abstract colour studies, typography, or archival photography.
Add a personal touch
Custom framing allows for detail that gives the gift emotional weight:
- Float mounting a handwritten note or postcard alongside a print
- Framing an old family photo with a conservation window mount
- Adding a brass nameplate
- Choosing a moulding that has symbolic meaning, such as oak for strength or walnut for heritage
- Working with a double mount to create depth or highlight a specific colour in the art
These details are where a simple framed picture becomes an heirloom.
Give a gift that feels truly thoughtful
Custom framing is one of the few gifts that’s both emotional and practical. It tells someone you value their space, their taste, and their memories.
Whether it’s a print they’ve always loved, a photograph from a special trip, or a piece of art they’ve had rolled up for years, a custom frame transforms it into something meaningful.