Does an unframed canvas look good? Absolutely, but it depends on your room size, wall space, decor style, and the kind of statement you want to make.
Unframed canvas prints (also known as gallery wraps) offer a clean, minimal, frameless look that’s perfect for modern and contemporary interiors. On the other hand, framed canvas wall art adds polish and structure, ideal for traditional, cozy, or elevated spaces. So how do you decide which one is right for your home?
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about framed vs. unframed canvas art, including pros, visual differences, best rooms to hang each style, and how to choose art that actually complements your furniture and layout.
Whether you’re shopping for living room canvas wall art, hallway gallery walls, or bedroom decor, you’ll find the tips (and pieces!) to bring your space to life.
👉 Ready to shop now? Explore our best-selling canvas wall art — framed and unframed — all made to order and ship free across North America.
Key Takeaways
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Unframed canvas prints (also called gallery wraps) offer a modern, frameless look and ship ready to hang
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Framed canvas adds structure and polish, great for traditional or styled interiors
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Both options work well in different types of rooms—it's about what fits your space
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Canvas art from Buy Wall Art is made to order and ships free across North America
What Is an Unframed Canvas Print?
An unframed canvas, also known as a gallery wrap, is a stretched canvas print with the image wrapped around the sides. There’s no frame border, which gives it a seamless, clean look.
This style works best in minimalist spaces, open-concept rooms, or anywhere you want the art to blend naturally into the wall. Unframed canvas prints are lightweight, easy to hang, and ideal if you're after that modern gallery-style vibe.
Looking for a clean, modern finish? Browse unframed canvas wall art here.
What’s the Benefit of Framing a Canvas?
Framed canvas prints bring in that finished, polished look. Whether it’s a black floater frame for contrast or a wood tone for warmth, frames make the artwork stand out and feel more intentional.
Framed canvas prints are perfect for classic decor, professional office spaces, or styled gallery walls. They also help protect the edges of the print and tie the artwork into the rest of your interior design.
Want a more elevated look? Shop framed canvas wall art here.
Can You Frame an Unframed Canvas Later?
Yes, you can. All of our unframed canvases are already stretched and gallery-wrapped, so if you decide to frame them later, you're set. Just find a matching floater frame and slide it in.
If you’re unsure now, you can always start unframed and upgrade later as your style or space changes.
Does Framed Canvas Wall Art Sell Better?
Framed pieces often sell for more—and faster—because they feel “complete.” According to some industry surveys, framed artwork can sell for up to 50% more than unframed pieces.
That said, unframed art is still extremely popular, especially among buyers with a modern taste or flexible styling goals. It’s lighter, more affordable, and easy to group or rearrange.
Want artwork that's ready to hang? Explore framed and unframed canvas options.
How to Style Unframed Canvas Wall Art
Unframed canvas looks best when styled with intention. Here are a few quick tips:
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Group 2–3 coordinating canvases into a gallery wall
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Use consistent spacing (2–3 inches) between prints for clean lines
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Let your wall color work for you—unframed canvas pops against light, neutral backdrops
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Use simple spotlights or natural lighting to highlight the texture
Minimal doesn’t have to mean boring. The right wall art can still stand out without a frame.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a gallery wrap and a framed canvas?
Gallery wrap canvases are stretched with the image wrapped around the sides—no frame needed. Framed canvas prints have an outer border (like a floater or traditional frame) for a more finished look.
Can I hang an unframed canvas without damaging my walls?
Yes! Our unframed stretched canvas prints are lightweight, built solid, and ready to hang with pre-installed sawtooth hanging hardware.
Is unframed canvas art considered lower quality?
Not at all! It’s a popular choice in modern interior design and is used in galleries all the time. It’s more about the style you’re going for than the quality of the piece.
How do I choose between framed and unframed?
If you like clean and modern, go unframed. If you want something that feels structured or blends with other decor, framed is the way to go. You really can’t go wrong—it’s just about what fits your space.
Bring the Look Home
Whether you're drawn to the minimalist style of an unframed canvas or prefer the timeless appeal of a framed print, both options can elevate your space with ease.
Unframed canvas wall art offers a clean, gallery-style finish perfect for modern living rooms, open-concept layouts, and Scandinavian-inspired decor. Framed canvas prints, on the other hand, add structure and depth—ideal for traditional interiors, cozy bedrooms, and curated gallery walls.
At Buy Wall Art, every piece is made to order, ships free across North America, and arrives ready to hang—no framing or extra hardware needed. Whether you’re styling above a fireplace, behind your bed, or in a hallway, our canvas wall art fits your style, space, and budget.
Ready to bring the look home? Browse our Canvas Wall Art Collection and choose between framed and unframed styles that fit your home perfectly.
