What is box framing?

Box framing is a contemporary picture framing technique that creates a clean, three-dimensional effect by mounting the artwork or photograph on a raised foam core board inside a deep-profile frame. The depth of the frame creates a visible space between the artwork and the glass, giving the image a floating, three-dimensional appearance that draws the eye directly to the picture. Box framing places maximum focus on the artwork itself, with the frame acting as a subtle border rather than a dominant visual element. It is one of the most popular framing styles in South Africa for modern homes, contemporary interiors, and professional gallery displays.

What is the difference between box framing and shadow box framing?

Box framing and shadow box framing are closely related techniques. Standard box framing floats a flat print or photograph on a raised foam core board inside a deep frame, creating a faux 3D effect. Shadow box framing takes this further — it is specifically designed to frame three-dimensional objects such as sports jerseys, medals, memorabilia, and keepsakes inside a deep box frame with sufficient depth to accommodate the object without touching the glass. Both techniques use deep-profile frames and create a similar visual effect, but shadow box framing is built for items that cannot lie flat. At The Frame & Art Factory we offer both standard box framing and custom shadow box construction for memorabilia and three-dimensional objects.

What are the benefits of box framing?

Modern, minimalist aesthetic — The clean lines and deep profile of a box frame create an understated elegance that works beautifully in contemporary and modern interior spaces. The focus remains entirely on the artwork, not the frame.

Three-dimensional depth — The raised foam core creates a visible depth between the artwork and the glass, adding visual interest and a gallery-quality finish to any print or photograph.

Versatile application — Box framing works for photographs, art prints, posters, certificates, canvas prints, and memorabilia. It is equally suited to residential, commercial, hospitality, and gallery environments.

Flush wall installation — All our box frames are supplied with a unique flush-wall hanging device, allowing the frame to sit perfectly flat against the wall for a seamless, professional installation.

Nationwide delivery — All box framing orders are carefully packaged and shipped to all major cities and towns across South Africa.

What materials does The Frame & Art Factory use for box framing?

Every box frame produced at The Frame & Art Factory is custom made in our Woodstock factory using high-quality materials selected for durability and visual impact. The foam core backing board is acid-free, ensuring the artwork is protected from deterioration over time. Frame profiles are available in a wide range of finishes including natural wood, painted finishes, metallic options, and contemporary colours to complement any artwork and interior. Glazing options include standard clear glass, anti-reflection glass, and UV-protective glass for artworks requiring additional protection from light exposure. All box frames are built to the exact dimensions of the artwork — there are no standard sizes, every frame is made to measure.

Who is box framing suitable for?

Homeowners and art collectors — Box framing is ideal for displaying photographs, art prints, and original artwork in a contemporary home environment. The clean, modern aesthetic works particularly well in open-plan living spaces, bedrooms, and home offices.

Galleries and artists — Box framing is a gallery-standard presentation technique widely used for exhibiting photographic work, limited edition prints, and contemporary artwork. The depth and clean lines give work a professional, exhibition-ready finish.

Interior designers — Box framing is a preferred choice for interior designers working on residential and commercial projects where a cohesive, modern aesthetic is required. We offer trade pricing and priority production for interior design accounts.

Hospitality and corporate — Hotels, restaurants, lodges, and corporate offices use box framing extensively for wall art installations. We supply large-volume box framing orders for hospitality fit-outs with consistent quality and reliable turnaround times.

Sports memorabilia collectors — Shadow box framing is the preferred method for framing signed jerseys, medals, photographs, and sports memorabilia. Our factory team specialises in custom shadow box construction for three-dimensional items.

How do I order box framing from The Frame & Art Factory?

Box framing orders can be placed in person at our showroom at 297 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town, where our team will guide you through frame profile selection, glazing options, and mounting choices. Orders can also be placed by contacting us on 021 447 1620 or sales@frameandart.co.za. For trade and wholesale enquiries, contact us to discuss volume pricing and turnaround times. We deliver box framing orders to all major cities and towns across South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep are your box frames?

Our box frames are available in a range of depths to suit different requirements. Standard box frame depths typically range from 30mm to 70mm. For shadow box framing of three-dimensional objects such as sports jerseys and memorabilia, custom depths are built to accommodate the specific item being framed. Contact us with your requirements and we will advise on the appropriate depth.

Can box framing be used for canvas prints?

Yes. Box framing works well for canvas prints, particularly canvas floater framing where the canvas is mounted inside a deep frame with a visible gap between the canvas edge and the frame profile. We offer dedicated canvas floater frames as well as standard box frames for flat canvas prints. Visit our Canvas Floater Framing page for more information.

Do you offer UV-protective glazing for box frames?

Yes. We offer UV-protective glazing for box frames, which filters out harmful UV light that causes fading and deterioration of artwork over time. This is recommended for original artworks, signed prints, and any item with significant value. Anti-reflection glass is also available for displays in brightly lit environments.

How long does custom box framing take?

Standard custom box framing orders are typically completed within 5-7 working days. Rush orders can be accommodated depending on factory capacity. Contact us on 021 447 1620 or sales@frameandart.co.za to discuss your timeline.

Do you offer box framing for trade and wholesale clients?

Yes. The Frame & Art Factory operates a formal trade programme for interior designers, architects, retailers, hospitality businesses, and corporate clients. Trade accounts receive wholesale pricing, priority production scheduling, and dedicated account management. Contact sales@frameandart.co.za to apply for a trade account.

Do you ship box frames nationwide?

Yes. All box framing orders are packaged in purpose-designed protective packaging and shipped to all major cities and towns across South Africa including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, and George.