How Veneers Are Used in Fine Art Picture Frames and What They Do for Your Art
If you’ve been following our content and new frame additions, you may be feeling our excitement for our growing and evolving assortment of natural wood veneers. In this article we will share our insights on what they are, what they do, and why it might matter to you.
What is a wood veneer and what does it do?
A veneer is an extremely thin slice of material; in our case natural wood (usually less than 1/40” thick), that is adhered to a substrate; in our case either wood or metal. Veneers are used for creating an aesthetic while offering other functional benefits, like cost reduction and flexibility in design. By using veneers on custom picture frame mouldings, we’re able to create frames that surpass the visual appeal and performance of natural hardwood frames, offering high-design alternatives at affordable prices.
The Larson Juhl 364708 Raw Oak Veneer
Aaron Bivins watercolor at MPM Wealth Management installation framed in the Raw Oak Veneer Picture Frame
By applying an oak veneer and maintaining its raw finish, we achieve a light and modern look for the frame. This method offers a more consistent appearance with minimal knotting and color variation compared to solid oak frames, especially in larger sizes. The substrate, finger-joined pine, ensures structural integrity and is commonly used in custom framing for its stability. By combining the oak veneer on pine, we’re able to deliver a high-end frame treatment that is on-trend, strong-profiled and lighter weight than a solid oak custom frame would be. It not only enhances the visual appeal of your art but also provides durability and affordability, making it easy on your eyes, your walls, and your budget.
The Natura Collection by DEHA Design
Photography installation at MPM Wealth Managment, Holland Ohio. Wood veneer on metal - Jet Black DEHA RL524
An even more innovative approach in framing involves using raw wood veneer on metal, creating a sophisticated and minimalist elegance with a subdued, luxurious touch. This pairing of materials provides superior structural stability, making it uniquely suited for achieving a sleek, ultra-slim, minimalist look. You will find these frames a great choice for framing photography, watercolor paintings, prints, and other works on paper, providing a contemporary and restrained presentation.
This framing technique combines modern design sensibilities with practical durability, resulting in a refined aesthetic while offering archival quality, ensuring longevity and preserving the value of the artwork over time, appealing to those seeking a sophisticated way to showcase art.
The Kyoto Collection of Bamboo Frames by Larson Juhl
Just launched and generating more than its fair share of attention are our new bamboos. If you’re a fan of bamboo, Japanese design and biophilic design, be sure to take notice! By layering oak veneer on an ayous wood substrate, and with the strategic use of roping under the veneer, Kyoto bamboos are earthy, raw, natural and multi-dimensional, just like its namesake. To us, these redefine what it means to frame in bamboo.
At this writing, we are offering three weathered finishes: black, natural and a smokey grey in a small profile, suitable for delicate works on paper yet ample enough for larger, more monumental works: a gorgeous, versatile custom picture framing option.
Like solid wood frames, the veneers will age gradually over time, keeping their authenticity and natural beauty from within.
Interested?
We’re happy to send you free samples.
