Let’s make a floating frame. This simple, low-cost hack transforms an ordinary frame into a sleek floating-glass display using items you likely already have. If you like the airy look of a floating glass frame but don’t want to pay for a new one, you can repurpose an old frame and achieve the same effect for almost nothing.
I started with a printable I had previously mentioned in another post. I printed it on cardstock at home and colored it with regular colored pencils. Initially I planned to buy a mat or backing paper, but then I had the idea to let the artwork literally float behind the glass instead of backing it with paper—similar to the floating pieces you find in many store-bought frames.
Rather than hunting for a floating frame at the store, I took apart a standard frame I already owned and examined how it was constructed. The conversion turned out to be straightforward: remove the backing, add a hanging hook to the top of the frame, secure the glass to the frame, and attach the artwork directly to the glass. With only a few small supplies, the frame was ready to become a floating display.
Material #1: A sawtooth hanging bracket. I centered and nailed a sawtooth hanger into the top of the wooden frame so it would hang straight. These hangers are inexpensive and easy to attach.
Material #2: Super glue. I applied a thin bead of glue around the outside lip of the frame and set the glass back onto that lip so the glass would be fixed in place. The glue dries out of sight behind the glass lip, and the front view remains clean. Important note: this method still allows you to clean both sides of the glass—simply lift the frame off the wall and wipe the back if needed.
Material #3: None. That’s it—you’re finished.
Once the glue was dry, I had a functioning floating glass frame. To secure the printable to the glass I used small pieces of clear Scotch tape applied to the back edges of the print. I overlapped the tape just enough so a tiny top edge met the glass at the top of the print and a tiny bottom edge met the glass at the bottom. The tape was so narrow it was barely visible from the front, even at close range, and just two small pieces—one at the top and one at the bottom—kept the paper flat and centered.
If the tape had been noticeable or awkward, my backup plan would have been to use a light spray adhesive on the front of the print and press it carefully to the back of the glass. I would only use spray adhesive on inexpensive or replaceable prints, not on anything valuable or irreplaceable.
A couple of caveats make this technique best suited for prints and casual artwork rather than precious originals:
- There is no backing panel protecting the artwork from the rear. Instead of being sandwiched like in a traditional frame, the art sits against the glass with the back open to the wall. While this generally works well for prints, it offers less protection than a fully enclosed frame.
- Using tape on the back of the artwork is a simple, effective method for lightweight prints, but it is not recommended for valuable or archival pieces.
For inexpensive printables, DIY art, or seasonal pieces, this floating glass technique is an excellent way to refresh old frames and add a modern touch to your wall decor. It’s quick, affordable, and gives a clean, minimalist look that complements many styles. If you’ve experimented with framing or altered a piece of decor to give it a new life, I’d love to hear what tricks you’ve tried—share your frame-hacking ideas and tips.