Adding a floater frame to your canvas is the ultimate way to elevate your artwork. It provides that sophisticated, gallery-style "floating" effect where the canvas sits suspended within the frame without touching the edges.
At Kolekin, we’ve made the custom framing process easy. The most common mistake people make is trying to calculate the "gap" (the space between the canvas and the frame) themselves. At Kolekin, we handle the math for you. You simply measure your canvas, and we build the frame to fit it perfectly with the ideal floating distance already integrated.
Here is your definitive guide to measuring your canvas to ensure a flawless fit every time.
1. The Kolekin Golden Rule: Measure the Canvas, Not the Frame
Before you pull out your measuring tape, remember this: Order the exact size of your canvas. If your canvas is 12" x 24", you order a 12" x 24" frame on Kolekin.com. Our frame design is already factoring in the necessary clearance (the "float gap") so that your artwork drops in seamlessly with a beautiful space around all sides.
2. Tools You’ll Need
To get professional results, you need the right tools. Skip the soft sewing tape or a plastic ruler.
- A Metal Measuring Tape: These are rigid and provide the most accurate linear measurements.
- A Notepad and Pen: To record your Width, Height, and Depth.
- A Flat Surface: Place your canvas on a clean, sturdy table or the floor.
3. Measuring Width and Height
Measuring your canvas is straightforward. To ensure a perfect fit, you simply need the exact dimensions of the outer edges of your wooden stretcher bars.
- Measure the Width: Place your tape measure across the top and bottom of the canvas. If the measurements differ slightly, use the largest number.
- Measure the Height: Place your tape measure along the left and right sides. Again, if there is a slight variation, record the largest number.
Remember: Do not add any extra space for the "floating" effect. If your canvas measures exactly 12" x 24", that is the size you should order. We will automatically build the frame slightly larger to create the perfect gap around your art.
Step 2: Determining the Depth (Thickness)
This is where many DIY framers get confused. The depth of your canvas determines which Kolekin frame collection you should browse. In the industry, there are two primary standards:
Standard Canvas (0.75" Depth)
These are the most common canvases found in art supply stores. They are thin and designed to be framed. If your canvas side measures 3/4" (0.75"), you should select a Kolekin frame designed for Standard depth.
Gallery Wrap Canvas (1.5" Depth)
Gallery wraps are thicker and designed to stand out significantly from the wall. They are often painted on the sides. If your canvas side measures 1 1/2" (1.5"), you must select the Gallery depth option on our site.
Step 3: Placing Your Order on Kolekin.com
Now that you have your numbers, the hard part is over. Using our Easy Frame Finder you will easily be able to:
- Select Depth: Choose 0.75" or 1.5" based on your canvas thickness.
- Input Canvas Size: Enter the width and height you measured (e.g., 12" x 24").
- Select Color: Choose from our available wooden finishes or black frames.
- Checkout!
Why do we calculate the gap for you?
Precision is key to the "floater" look. By handling the offset in-house, we ensure that the gap is uniform on all four sides. If we asked customers to calculate it, variations in math could lead to frames that are too loose or too tight. We take that risk off your shoulders.
Summary Checklist
| Feature | What to do |
| Width & Height | Measure height and width; use the largest number. |
| Units | Use Inches as our sizes are using this measurement unit. |
| Depth | Choose 0.75" (Standard) or 1.5" (Gallery). |
| The Gap | Do not add extra. Kolekin adds it for you. |
Measuring for a floater frame doesn't have to be intimidating. By focusing on the actual dimensions of your canvas and letting Kolekin handle the technical offsets, you guarantee a professional result. Whether you are framing a thin 0.75" sketch or a bold 1.5" gallery masterpiece, accuracy in your initial measurements is the secret to a stunning wall display.
Ready to give your art the space it deserves?