How to Frame Kids' Art Without Losing the Originals

Every parent faces the same dilemma: your child creates a masterpiece, and you want to display it proudly—but framing means potentially damaging the original. Mounting tape, mat adhesives, and frame clips can all harm delicate paper and artwork. The solution? Frame copies and preserve the originals safely.

Why Not Frame the Original?

Kids' artwork is often created on construction paper, cardstock, or lightweight paper that degrades over time. Mounting and framing introduces several risks:

Adhesive damage: Mounting tape or glue permanently alters the artwork
Light exposure: UV rays fade colors and yellow paper
Humidity and temperature: Can warp paper or cause deterioration
Accidents: Frames break, kids bump into walls, drinks get spilled

The original artwork is irreplaceable. Framing a high-quality reproduction lets you enjoy the art worry-free while keeping the original pristine.

Method 1: Digital Scanning and Printing

This is the gold standard for preserving kids' art.

How it works:

Scan artwork at high resolution (300 DPI minimum, 600 DPI better)
Use a flatbed scanner for best quality
Save files as high-quality JPEG or PDF
Print on archival-quality photo paper or cardstock

Benefits:

Unlimited reproductions—make copies for grandparents too
Easy to resize to fit standard frames
Digital files preserved forever
Original stays safe in a portfolio or storage box

Where to print:

Local print shops (best quality)
Online services like Nations Photo Lab or Printique
Home photo printer (if you have one)

Pro tip: Create a digital portfolio on your computer organized by year and child. You'll have a complete archive of their artistic journey.

Method 2: Professional Photography

For 3D artwork, textured pieces, or oversized projects that won't fit in a scanner, photograph them instead.

Best practices:

Use natural, indirect light (near a window, no direct sun)
Place artwork flat on the floor or tape to a wall
Photograph straight-on to avoid distortion
Use your smartphone—modern phone cameras are excellent
Avoid flash (creates glare and harsh shadows)

Editing tips:

Crop to just the artwork
Adjust brightness and contrast if needed
Most phones have built-in editing tools

Then print the photo just like you would a scan. Frame the print, and store the original artwork safely.

Method 3: Create a Rotating Display System

Can't choose just one piece to frame? Create a system that lets you swap artwork regularly without damaging anything.

The Picture Ledge Method:

Install floating shelves or picture ledges
Lean framed copies against the wall (no hanging)
Swap out artwork seasonally or whenever your child creates new pieces

The Clipframe System:

Use clipframes (frameless glass with clips)
Quick to open and change artwork
No mounting required—artwork sits between glass and backing
Warning: This method exposes originals to light and handling

The Gallery Wire with Clips:

String gallery wire or twine across a wall
Use small clothespins or art clips to hang artwork
Easy to rotate pieces
Fun, casual aesthetic for playrooms or bedrooms

Method 4: Photo Reproduction Services

Several companies specialize in reproducing children's artwork as high-quality prints. They handle scanning, color correction, and printing.

Services to try:

Artkive (app that photographs and stores kids' art)
Plum Print (creates curated photo books of kids' art)
Keepsake (scans and creates custom products)

These services are more expensive than DIY but offer professional results and convenience.

Storing Original Artwork Safely

Once you've created reproductions, store originals properly:

Short-term storage:

Large portfolio case or artist folder
Flat, dry location
Organized by child and year

Long-term storage:

Archival boxes with archival tissue paper
Label clearly (child's name, age, year)
Store in climate-controlled space (not attic or basement)
Consider photographing pieces before storage

Digital backup:

Keep scanned files in multiple locations
Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox)
External hard drive
Printed photo books as physical backup

Framing the Reproductions

Once you have your prints, frame them beautifully:

Frame size tips:

Most kids' art is 8.5×11, 9×12, or 11×14
Use standard frame sizes with mats to accommodate odd sizes
Consider gallery wall layouts for multiple pieces

Mat selection:

White or cream mats keep focus on the artwork
Colored mats can complement the art's color palette
See our guide on choosing mat colors

Glazing options:

UV glass or framer's grade acrylic prevents fading
Acrylic is safer for kids' rooms (won't shatter)
Standard glass is fine for reproductions you'll swap out

Pro tip: Create a "featured artist" wall in your home. Frame 3-5 of your child's best pieces in matching frames for a gallery-style display that celebrates their creativity.

Rotating Displays: Keep It Fresh

Kids create constantly. Don't let old artwork dominate the display:

Seasonal rotation: Change artwork quarterly
Age progression: Display current year's work, archive previous years
Theme displays: Group similar subjects (animals, landscapes, self-portraits)
Multi-child rotation: Give each child equal display time

Special Projects and 3D Art

Not everything fits in a frame:

For 3D projects (clay sculptures, assemblages):

Photograph from multiple angles
Create a photo collage to frame
Store originals in clear bins with photos taped to outside for easy identification

For oversized pieces (poster board, large paintings):

Photograph and print at reduced size
Consider custom-sized frames for truly special pieces
Or trim edges if the composition allows

The Bottom Line

Framing kids' art doesn't mean sacrificing the originals. With digital scanning, photography, and proper storage, you can display your child's creativity proudly while preserving every precious original.

Start by scanning or photographing your child's best work this month. Create prints, design custom frames using our frame designer, and start building a display that celebrates their artistic journey—without risking those irreplaceable originals.

Your kids will treasure these originals when they're older. Keep them safe, frame the copies, and enjoy the art worry-free.