Tray Frames Highlighting Your Canvas
Our tray frames are made by specialists in the UK to your exact needs. Your choice of material, style and finish. Get in touch to start your canvas tray frame project.
Description
Why Choose Tray Frames?
A tray frame (also called a floater frame) is an L-shaped profile that wraps around the outside of a stretched canvas or panel. A shadow gap — typically 3–10mm — is left between the inner edge of the frame and the canvas, creating the appearance that the artwork is floating inside the frame. This gap also serves as negative space, drawing the eye inward in the same way a mount does for a flat work.
Tray frames are the most minimal framing option for canvas. They add structure and a finished edge without competing with the artwork, and because there is no glass, the texture of the painted surface remains fully visible. We build each tray frame from Tulipwood or welded aluminium to the exact dimensions of your canvas, then hand-finish to your specification — sprayed, stained, gilded, or waxed.
Projects typically start from around £250 and are completed within 2-4 weeks. Get in touch with your canvas dimensions for a free, no-obligation quote.
Tray frames work particularly well when the painted edges of the canvas are part of the composition — the open front means every side is visible. They are also suitable for thick oil paintings on board, fine detail work on gesso-painted tiles, and laser-cut artwork. Any piece with inherent depth that does not require glazing for protection is a candidate for a tray frame.
The frame depth is matched to your canvas. Shallower profiles suit slim canvases; deeper profiles accommodate thicker stretcher bars. We can finish in natural wood tones, sprayed colours (including colour-matched to any RAL or NCS reference), or metallic finishes. Because everything is made in-house at our Bollington workshop, turnaround is typically 2-4 weeks.
Let's Get Started
Ready to Start Your Project?
Tell us about your artwork and we will provide a free, no-obligation quote. Most projects are completed within 2-4 weeks.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation
Craftsmanship
Our Craftsmanship Is At The Heart of Every Canvas Tray Frame.
We select sustainably sourced Tulipwood or aluminium for each tray frame, then mill, join, and finish by hand. No staples or adhesives touch the canvas — we use secure brackets or clips that hold it without damage. For larger pieces, we reinforce the structure to prevent warping. Every frame is spline-joined for strength and sprayed or hand-finished to your specification.
Tray
“I started using Harten Frameworks six years ago. These guys are the best framers in the UK, they focus on my needs and always deliver. ”
Lincoln TownleyArtist
Suitable For
What Are Tray Frames For?
Tray frames are versatile and shine with certain artworks. They're ideal for stretched canvases, where the sides are painted or textured. Paintings on board or panel also fit perfectly, as do prints mounted on rigid surfaces. Avoid them for paper-based art that needs glazing for protection. If your piece has depth or you want an open-front display, this is the way to go. Not sure? Drop us a line & we'll guide you.
| Acrylic | Metal & Wood Frames | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Artwork | Box | Panel | Box | Simple | Stretcher | Tray |
| 3D Object | ||||||
| Board | ||||||
| Canvas | ||||||
| Digital File | ||||||
| Mirror | ||||||
| Paper | ||||||
| Textile | ||||||
Speak to a Specialist
Discuss Your Project With Our Team
Our museum grade specialists will help you choose the right materials, finishes and construction for your artwork. Over 50 years of combined experience.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation
Construction
How We Make Bespoke Canvas Tray Frames
Building a tray frame starts with measurements. We take your canvas dimensions and add the floating gap, ensuring the frame's inner lip supports it securely. Woods are milled to precise profiles, then joined with strong, invisible bonds - no visible nails here.
For metals, we weld and polish for seamless edges. Final assembly includes attaching the artwork with care, using non-invasive methods. The result? A frame that's as sturdy as it is stylish, ready to hang or stand.
The result is a frame that is structurally sound and precisely fitted, ready to hang or display on a stand.
- Custom Sizes: Made to fit any canvas or panel, from small sketches to large installations.
- Floating Effect: A 5-10mm gap around the artwork for depth and visual interest.
- No Glass Needed: Ideal for oils, acrylics, and textured works that don't require glazing.
- Durable Materials: Woods like oak, walnut, or maple; metals for a modern twist.
- Finishing Options: Stains, paints, veneers, or metallic foils to complement your artwork.
- Easy Mounting: Includes secure hanging hardware for walls or display stands.
- Protection First: Shields edges from knocks while allowing full visibility.
- UK Crafted: Hand-built with precision for a flawless fit.
The framing of my piece has really made a statement in our new home, for a price that was unrivalled by any local competitors.
Questions?
Have a Question About Your Project?
We are happy to discuss your requirements with no obligation. Send us a message or give us a call.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation