Beyond Basic: Why Solid Hardwood Floater Frames Make a Difference for Canvas Artists
When you’ve poured time, vision, and skill into a piece of canvas art, the frame shouldn’t be an afterthought. In fact, the right frame can elevate your work, helping it stand out in a crowded feed, at a gallery show, or in a collector’s home.
That’s why so many artists turn to floater frames. They give canvas art a clean, modern look—and the illusion that your piece is “floating” inside the frame adds dimension without distraction.
But not all floater frames are created equal. If you’ve been using standard frames made from engineered wood, veneer, or MDF, you might be missing out on one of the simplest ways to upgrade your presentation: solid hardwood.
What Makes Solid Hardwood Different?
Most mass-produced floater frames are made from composite materials—engineered to look like wood, but lacking its character and longevity. While these frames might look clean from a distance, they often fall short in person.
Solid hardwood floater frames are something else entirely:
Rich grain patterns that add natural interest and warmth
Genuine materials that feel as good as they look
Strength and durability—built to last and made to be collected
Sustainable sourcing with no plastic, laminate, or off-gassing
They’re frames that complement your work without competing with it—and they give your collectors a piece they’ll be proud to display long-term.
Matching Wood Types to Your Art
Choosing the right wood is a bit like choosing the right brush or palette. Each one brings a different tone and personality to your piece. Here’s how we like to think about it:
Maple
Bright, subtle, and contemporary. Maple is a popular choice for artists who want a clean finish that doesn’t overpower the artwork. It works beautifully with modern color palettes, abstracts, and bright or pastel work.
Walnut
Deep and dramatic. Walnut adds richness and contrast, especially to lighter-toned or monochrome pieces. It’s a great match for moody landscapes, minimal works, or any piece that could benefit from a frame that feels quietly confident.
Cherry
Warm and evolving. Cherry starts with a soft pink-brown tone that deepens over time into a rich amber-red. It’s ideal for earthy, expressive pieces—or work with bold, saturated colors that benefit from a warm edge.
White Oak
Natural and modern. White oak is a favorite for those looking for an organic, Scandinavian-inspired finish. Its texture adds subtle interest and plays well with neutral or minimalist artwork.
Why Materials Matter
When it comes to quality, details make the difference. Every Atlas floater frame is made from furniture-grade hardwood—the same material we use for heirloom furniture pieces. We hand-select each board and custom-build every frame to your canvas’s exact size.
We also finish every frame with a VOC-free hard wax oil, which means there’s no harsh chemical smell, no off-gassing, and no plastic-y shine. Just a clean, natural finish that’s safe for home studios, galleries, and collectors’ spaces alike.
A Frame Worthy of the Work
For working artists, presentation isn’t just about appearance—it’s part of your brand. A solid hardwood floater frame tells buyers and collectors that you’ve considered every detail. It adds polish without pretense. It signals that this piece is made to last.
And when a potential buyer picks up a framed canvas at a show or gallery and feels the real wood, the difference is undeniable.
We’re passionate about helping artists present their work in the best possible light—whether that means choosing the right wood, the right size, or just understanding your options.
Closing Thought
You already know how to make great art. Let the frame be part of the story—crafted with the same care and attention you bring to your canvas.