Picture framing terms explained: Picture frames, photo mounts & more

Whether you're an artist, photographer, interior designer or just looking to frame your favourite artwork, understanding picture framing terminology is essential. This guide covers key terms commonly used in the framing industry to help you make an informed decision when selecting from our wide range of picture frames.

Acid-free materials 

Archival-quality materials free from acids, preventing artwork from discolouration and deterioration over time.

Box frame

A deep shadow box frame designed to hold three-dimensional artwork or memorabilia, adding depth and dimension to framed displays.

Bumper pads

Small pads attached to the corners or back of a frame to protect walls and improve air circulation behind it. 

Canvas floater frame

A type of picture frame designed to display stretched canvas prints, creating a floating effect by leaving a gap between the artwork and the frame edges.

Closed corner frame

A seamless frame with finished corners, providing a refined, high-end look – popular for gallery-quality framing.

Conservation framing 

A professional picture framing technique using acid-free materials, UV-protective glazing and reversible mounting to preserve artwork and prevent damage.

D-rings

Metal loops attached to the back of a frame, used for securing hanging wire and ensuring stability when mounted.

Dry mounting

A technique where artwork is permanently affixed to a backing board, commonly used for posters, prints and non-archival framing.

Fillet

A narrow decorative moulding inserted inside a frame or mount to create a layered, sophisticated effect.

Float glass

A standard type of clear glass used in picture frames, offering basic UV protection and clarity.

Float mounting

A technique where artwork is positioned on top of a mount rather than behind it, creating a floating effect. 

Frame profile 

The cross-sectional shape and style of a frame, defining its depth and overall design.

Gallery frame

A sleek, minimalist frame style – often used for modern artwork and photography.

Giclée

A high-quality printing process using inkjet technology to reproduce artwork with exceptional detail and colour accuracy – commonly used for fine art prints.

Glazing

A transparent covering (typically glass or acrylic) placed over artwork in a frame to protect it from dust, moisture and UV rays.

Glazing points

Small metal tabs that hold artwork, frame mounts and glazing securely in place within a picture frame.

Hinge mounting 

A reversible picture framing technique where archival-quality hinges are used to attach artwork to a mount without permanent adhesion.

Lignin-free materials

Archival-quality materials free from lignin (a natural plant compound), preventing discolouration and deterioration over time. 

Miter cuts

Angled cuts (typically 45 degrees) made at the ends of moulding pieces to create seamless, strong corner joints.

Mount/mat

A decorative and protective border placed around artwork within a frame, preventing direct contact with glazing.

Mount/mat burn

The yellowing of artwork edges caused by acidic mounts – preventable with acid-free framing materials.

Mount/mat depth

The thickness of a mount, typically ranging from 1.4mm (standard) to 2.4mm (deep).

Moulding

The material used for the outer frame, available in various styles, widths and finishes to complement different artwork.

Multi-aperture

A framing style with multiple openings in one frame, designed to display several pieces in a cohesive layout.

Museum glass

A premium picture frame glazing option offering maximum UV protection (99%) and anti-reflective properties – ideal for high-end picture framing.

Non-reflective glass

Glass that’s been specially treated to reduce glare, improving visibility in bright spaces.

Open-back frame

A picture frame sold without backing or glazing, allowing for custom framing and mounting. 

Picture wire 

A strong metal wire used to hang framed artwork securely, attached to D-rings or mounting brackets.

Polynate

An eco-friendly material made from up to 95% recycled polystyrene that’s also fully recyclable at the end of its lifecycle, offering a sustainable alternative to wooden picture frames.

Rebate/rabbet

The recessed area at the back of a frame that holds the glazing, artwork and backing materials in place.

Rebate/rabbet depth

The depth of the rebate, determining how many layers of materials can be fitted inside a frame.

Recycled moulding 

A framing material made from recycled or reclaimed wood, offering a sustainable framing solution.

Sawtooth hanger

A serrated metal hanger attached to the back of a picture frame, allowing for easy wall mounting.

Spacer

A small component, often made from wood or plastic, placed between the artwork and glazing to prevent direct contact and protect delicate materials.

Strutback

A hinged, easel-like stand on the back of smaller picture frames, enabling them to stand upright on a flat surface.

V-groove

A decorative groove cut into a frame mount, adding depth and visual appeal to a framed presentation. 

Create your perfect frame at Readymades 

Whether you're looking for custom frames for artwork, photographs or retail displays, Readymades offers high-quality framing solutions tailored to your needs.

Explore our wide selection of picture frames, or use our custom frame builder to design your perfect frame.