Tips for making the most of your handmade art

So you’ve bought a lovely print, it’s been delivered, you’ve unboxed it… now what? Handmade lino prints are a beautiful and personal way to bring a unique aesthetic to any space. Because they’re created by hand, no two pieces are ever the same, each will have it’s own quirks and character. There are many ways to display pieces of art, so you can make your new print even more personal by displaying it in a way that suits you and your space.

Here are five tips to on how to make the most of your prints

1. Pick the right frame to complement the print

One of the best ways to elevate your lino prints is by choosing the perfect frame. The right frame can enhance the detail and add depth, while also protecting the print. For nature and animal themes, rustic or natural wood frames work wonderfully, creating an earthy, outdoorsy vibe. Black or white frames offer a clean, minimalist look that helps the intricacies of the print stand out. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a color that complements the print’s color palette, like a soft green for botanical prints or a warm gray for woodland creatures.

Tip: Opt for frames with UV-protective glass, which will help prevent fading over time, especially if the print is displayed in a well-lit area.

2. Create a gallery wall for a stunning display

If you have several prints, consider creating a gallery wall to showcase them as a cohesive collection. Gallery walls work especially well in living rooms, hallways, or cozy reading nooks. When building a gallery wall with nature and animal-themed lino prints, try mixing print sizes to create visual interest, or keep the sizes consistent for a polished, streamlined look.

Tip: Lay your frames on the floor first to arrange and rearrange until you find a configuration you love. This lets you visualize the layout before committing to wall space. Use a low tack painter’s tape to mark where each print will hang for hassle-free spacing!

3. Select lighting that enhances texture and detail

The intricate textures in lino prints are a hallmark of the medium. To bring out these details, be mindful of the lighting. Soft, indirect lighting highlights subtle textures without casting harsh shadows. Picture lights can also add a dramatic touch, illuminating the print’s details in a cozy, museum-like way.

Tip: Avoid placing your prints in direct sunlight. Not only can it cause colors to fade, but intense sunlight can also alter the ink’s texture over time. Aim for soft ambient lighting to keep your prints looking vibrant and fresh.

4. Pair prints with natural accents to enhance the theme

For nature-inspired prints, bring the outdoors in by pairing your art with natural materials. You could place your print on a wall near a rustic wooden shelf or display it alongside potted plants, driftwood, or stones to accentuate the natural vibe. This styling technique enhances the organic feel of your lino prints and creates a calming environment in any space.

Tip: If you’re styling animal-themed prints, choose accents like woven baskets or feathers, which complement the natural elements in the art. This subtle styling will connect your prints to the surroundings and bring the subject matter to life.

5. Rotate seasonal prints for a dynamic collection

One of the joys of collecting art prints is their adaptability. You can create a collection of nature and animal prints inspired by the seasons and rotate them throughout the year. For example, vibrant floral and bird prints in the spring, coastal prints in the summer, woodland creatures in the fall, and cozy, winter-themed designs can bring an element of seasonality to your decor.

Tip: Keep a few versatile frames on hand for easy rotation. By swapping out prints, you refresh your space with the seasons, making your home feel new and exciting all year long.

Displaying handmade prints is a fantastic way to add beauty, texture, and personality to your space. By choosing the right frames, experimenting with layouts, enhancing details through lighting, and pairing them with natural elements, you can turn these unique pieces into a central element of your decor. Embrace the joy of rotating prints seasonally, and you’ll find that your art collection feels fresh and inspiring every day of the year!