How to Frame a Screenprint Without a Mat
By Starfangled Press | Because Art Makes Life Better | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to frame a screenprint without a mat using a float frame or direct framing. Protect your art while keeping it the focal point.
Quick Answer
To frame a screenprint without a mat, use a float frame or place the print directly against the glass with a spacer. This creates a modern, edge-to-edge look while protecting the artwork.
Why Go Matless?
Skipping the mat lets the art take center stage. Screenprints, with their bold flat colors and hand-printed texture, often look striking when the full sheet is visible right up to the frame edge. This approach also suits contemporary interiors where clean lines and minimal layers are preferred.
The main trade-off is that the print touches the glass or is closer to it, which increases the risk of moisture trapping and ink transfer. That’s why proper mounting and the use of a spacer are essential when you frame without a mat.
Step-by-Step: Matless Framing
- Measure and choose your frame: Measure the print’s exact dimensions. Select a frame with a depth that accommodates the print plus a spacer (at least 1/8 inch) if you want the art to float away from the glass. A float frame with a visible gap is a popular choice. Check that the frame’s backing is rigid enough to support the print without bowing.
- Prepare the print: Clean the glass thoroughly. If you’re using a spacer, attach it to the inside of the frame or the backing board. Place the print on a clean, lint-free surface and consider using archival mounting corners or acid-free tape to avoid adhesive touching the art. Never use regular tape or glue directly on the print—it can cause staining and permanent damage.
- Assemble and close the frame: Lay the print face down on the glass (or against the spacer) and place the backing board on top. Secure the frame’s clips or tabs, then flip it over to check alignment. Use a clean cloth to wipe any dust from the glass before sealing. Once closed, gently tap the glass to ensure the print doesn’t shift; if it moves, reopen and adjust the backing tension.
A Print Worth Framing
- Squirrel Love Screenprint: The Squirrel Love Screenprint is screenprinted by hand on soft white paper with a rich, flat matte finish. The matte finish reduces glare, so you can display it without glass reflections even when framed without a mat.
Squirrel Love Screenprint
