What Is a Floater-Frame Canvas Print? Materials, Finishes & Comparison

Updated September 2026 · Written by Chiara Rossetti, artist and founder of Rossetti Art

A floater-frame canvas print is a stretched canvas mounted inside a wooden frame with a small, deliberate gap between the canvas edge and the frame, so the artwork appears to "float" within it. Unlike a traditional frame, nothing covers the edges of the canvas and there is no glass. At Rossetti Art, every canvas print can be ordered with an optional solid poplar hardwood floater frame in black, white, oak or brown, fully assembled and ready to hang.

What is a floater-frame canvas print, exactly?

A floater frame is an open-sided frame made to surround stretched canvas. The canvas sits slightly inside the profile, leaving a measured gap around its edges. This gap creates a floating effect and gives the artwork visual space.

Traditional framing often overlaps the art or uses a mat and glass. Floater framing keeps the printed image visible to its edges. It suits large photos, abstract art, landscapes, and gallery walls that need a clean profile.

The open construction also avoids a glass reflection. It is a strong choice for rooms with windows, spotlights, or viewing angles that make framed art hard to see.

Floater frame vs. stretched canvas vs. rolled canvas

The best format depends on your budget, installation plans, and need for a finished display. A rolled canvas can offer flexibility, while stretched canvas removes the need for later stretching. A floater-frame canvas print adds the finished framing step.

Rolled canvas may suit buyers who already own a frame or want to manage framing later. Stretched canvas is a practical middle option. Choose a framed product when you want the artwork, frame, and hanging hardware coordinated in one order.

What are Rossetti Art floater frames and canvases made of?

Material quality affects image detail, surface feel, stability, and long-term presentation. Rossetti Art uses a defined canvas and hardwood construction rather than a temporary display solution.

"Every canvas print uses artist-grade Fredrix poly-cotton canvas, OBA-free, at 344 gsm (17.5 mil), printed with HP latex-based inks that are UV- and fade-resistant and GREENGUARD Gold certified, finished with a proprietary satin-matte coating for minimal glare, and hand-stretched over high-quality hardwood stretcher bars (kiln-dried, knot-free, finger-jointed, sap-free, warp-free), 1.25 in (3.18 cm) deep. The floater frame itself is solid poplar hardwood, finished in black, white, oak or brown, with a 5/16 in (8mm) shadow gap, and ships fully assembled with pre-installed sawtooth hanging hardware and rubber wall bumpers. There is no glass."

In practical terms, the satin-matte surface helps reduce glare. The 1.25-inch depth gives the canvas a substantial wall presence. The wood frame adds a finished profile without covering the printed edges.

Which frame color should I choose?

Black: Black creates contrast and a strong profile. It works well with monochrome photos, modern furniture, white walls, and graphic art.

Oak: Oak adds warmth and a lighter wood note. Choose it for Scandinavian rooms, natural textures, pale walls, and relaxed landscapes.

Brown: Brown supports traditional rooms, leather furniture, warm neutrals, and earth-toned art. It can make a photo feel more grounded.

White: White keeps the display light and quiet. It suits coastal rooms, soft palettes, minimal spaces, and artwork with bright backgrounds.

When unsure, match the frame to a repeated furniture finish rather than trying to match every color in the photo. The right profile should support the image, not compete with it.

Is a floater frame worth it?

For many buyers, yes. You receive a complete display with a refined profile, visible canvas edges, a floating effect, and no glass glare. The frame also removes the need to find a compatible framing service after purchase.

A stretched canvas may be better for a simple, frameless look. A rolled canvas may be better for a custom project, storage, or a tighter starting price. Compare the product price and your installation plans before deciding.

What sizes are available with a floater frame?

Floater frames are available on Rossetti Art canvas prints from 50 × 50 cm (20 × 20″) upward; the largest framed size varies by design and is shown in the size selector on each product page. Measure the wall before ordering and leave enough visual space around the art.

For a multi-piece display, consider the total arrangement, not only one print size. Mark the outer dimensions with painter’s tape before you buy. This simple step helps confirm scale and spacing.

How is a floater-framed canvas shipped, and how long does it take?

Framed canvas prints are made to order in 3–5 business days and shipped in 5–10 business days from the production facility nearest to you (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European Union or New Zealand), with free shipping and no import fees. The piece ships fully assembled and ready to hang, with pre-installed sawtooth hanging hardware and rubber wall bumpers.

Inspect the package soon after delivery. If the box or artwork appears damaged, photograph the packaging and contact customer service promptly. Keep packaging until you are satisfied with the product.

How do I hang a floater-framed canvas?

1. Measure the wall and mark the intended center point.
2. Use a level to confirm the desired position.
3. Choose wall hardware that suits the wall type and artwork weight.
4. Place the hardware at the measured point, allowing for the hanger position.
5. Lower the pre-installed sawtooth hanger onto the hardware.
6. Check that the frame is level and that the rubber bumpers rest against the wall.

Do not rely on a small nail if the artwork is heavy or the wall requires an anchor. Follow the included product instructions where applicable. Ask a qualified professional for help when mounting on difficult surfaces.

Can I return a floater-framed canvas print?

Yes. Canvas prints — framed or unframed — can be returned within 30 days in their original packaging. Original paintings and sculptures are made to order and are not returnable. Full details are on the Return & Refund Policy page.

Do not assume that every custom product has the same return terms. Save the order confirmation and review the instructions that come with the shipment.

FAQ about floater-frame canvas print options

For a finished gallery look, start with the artwork, confirm the size, select a frame color that supports the room, and review the current product details before ordering. The result is a coordinated canvas display designed to arrive ready to hang.