How to float mount

Float mounting can take your custom frame to the next level. To determine if the technique is right for your framing project, we answer all your most popular questions here.

What exactly is float mounting?

Float mounting is a framing technique that raises the artwork or item in the frame slightly above the mat, to make it appear like it’s floating. Float mounting adds a sense of depth and dimension to the framed piece, and it can be an especially effective way to frame objects and art or ephemera with an interesting edge.

How does it work?

In our Framebridge studio, our expert designers mount your art directly to foam board, before attaching that foam board to the mat. Then, we use spacers inside the frame, ensuring that the acrylic is not directly touching your art. Float mounting is an intricate technique, so it’s not often used in DIY framing projects.

Why choose float mounting?

Float mounting adds a little drama to any piece of art, textile, or object. It’s perfect for showing off unique edges–the tattered corners of an old postcard, the creases in a matchbox from the restaurant where you got engaged. It’s also the best way to showcase three-dimensional objects. Interior designers love a float mount because it highlights depth and makes the object stand out. It's an elegant, timeless style and the easiest way to make your art look truly custom framed. 

What can you float mount in a frame?

You can frame any object up to 1 1/2 inches deep. Here are just some–not even close to all–of the the things we've float mounted: postcards, scarves, passports, ticket stubs, boarding passes, ribbons, menus, textiles, rugs, currency, golf tees, small flags, pennants, matchboxes, keys, bandanas, guitar picks, playing cards, tassels, buttons and badges, coasters, koozies, medals, needlepoint, puzzles, photo strips, Polaroids, varsity letters, love notes, license plates, dinner plates, paint brushes, pens, crayons, magazines, book covers, album covers, CDs, DVDs, cassette tapes, and even a Blockbuster card.

You can also float multiple objects in one frame. The standard $25 fee includes up to five float-mounted items, with an additional $5 for anything thereafter.