Cheap Canvas Frame: Budget Framing

1.
Y’all Really Think Framing a Canvas Has to Cost a Fortune?
2.
What Even Counts as a “Cheap Canvas Frame” These Days?
3.
Is It Cheaper to DIY a Canvas Frame? Let’s Do the Math.
4.
Does Michaels Have Frames for Canvas? What About Hobby Lobby?
5.
Where Else Can You Score a Legit Cheap Canvas Frame Without Selling a Kidney?
6.
How to Inexpensively Frame a Canvas Without Looking Like You Tried Too Little
7.
Wait—Do You Even Need a Frame for Canvas Prints?
8.
What to Watch Out for When Buying Cheap Canvas Frames Online
9.
Can You Repurpose Old Frames Into Cheap Canvas Frames?
10.
Ready to Frame That Canvas Without Crying Over Your Bank Statement?

cheap canvas frame

Y’all Really Think Framing a Canvas Has to Cost a Fortune?

Hold up—before you stash that gorgeous canvas print in the closet ’cause you’re scared framing it’ll cost more than your monthly coffee budget, let’s have a little heart-to-heart. Who said art has to break the bank? Not us. Not today. Not ever. The truth is, snagging a cheap canvas frame isn’t just possible—it’s downright easy if you know where to look (and what to avoid). We’ve all been there: you order this dreamy 24x36" print of your dog wearing sunglasses, and suddenly you’re staring at $80 framing quotes like, “Ma’am, this is a golden retriever, not the Mona Lisa.” But honey, with a lil’ hustle and some crafty know-how, you can wrap that masterpiece in a frame that looks luxe without charging your credit card into next week. All it takes is a pinch of patience, a dash of DIY spirit, and zero shame in hunting for deals.

What Even Counts as a “Cheap Canvas Frame” These Days?

Let’s define our terms, y’all. A cheap canvas frame ain’t about flimsy plastic or warped wood that smells like regret—it’s about smart value. Think under $25 USD for a standard 16x20", under $40 for a 24x36", and bonus points if it’s got real wood grain, clean lines, and doesn’t wobble like a Jell-O mold. We’re talkin’ frames that whisper “curated,” not scream “clearance bin.” And hey—“cheap” doesn’t mean ugly. Some of the most stunning gallery walls we’ve seen were built on thrifted finds, discount store gems, and online flash sales. The key? Know your materials. Avoid MDF unless it’s sealed and painted well; pine’s your budget BFF; and always, always check the rabbet depth (that’s the groove where your canvas sits—gotta be deep enough!). A true cheap canvas frame delivers style, structure, and soul… without the side-eye from your bank account.

Is It Cheaper to DIY a Canvas Frame? Let’s Do the Math.

Alright, grab your calculators—or just your common sense. If you’re handy with a miter saw and got spare wood lyin’ around, DIY might save you coin. But if you’re like most of us (read: owns one screwdriver and calls it “the pointy tool”), building a frame from scratch could cost more in time, materials, and emotional damage than just buying one. Here’s a quick breakdown for a 20x24" frame:

DIY route: Wood ($18), wood glue ($5), corner clamps (rental or $25), sandpaper, stain, finish—total ≈ $55–$70, plus 3+ hours of labor.
Pre-made cheap canvas frame: $22–$35 shipped, ready to hang in 2 minutes.

See the gap? Unless you’re already set up like Bob Vila’s cousin, buying a cheap canvas frame is almost always the smarter play. Save your DIY energy for painting the wall behind it—not crying over mis-cut angles at midnight.

Does Michaels Have Frames for Canvas? What About Hobby Lobby?

Oh, sweet summer child—you’re not alone in wondering if big-box craft stores got your back. Yes, both Michaels and Hobby Lobby sell frames designed specifically for canvas art. But here’s the kicker: their “canvas frames” are often just floater frames (which look slick, no cap) but can run $40–$90 before coupons. Now, if you’ve got a 40% off coupon (which, let’s be real, Michaels emails you daily like they’re your clingy ex), you might snag a decent cheap canvas frame for $25–$35. Hobby Lobby’s 50% off one item deal? Same vibe—but only if you’re patient. Pro tip: never pay full price. Stack coupons, shop clearance aisles (they rotate weekly!), and always check the back for dents or scratches. Sometimes, you’ll find a $60 frame marked down to $15 just ’cause the box got scuffed. That’s how you win at cheap canvas frame hunting.

Where Else Can You Score a Legit Cheap Canvas Frame Without Selling a Kidney?

Beyond the usual suspects, there’s a whole world of budget-friendly framing out there—if you’re willin’ to look. Online retailers like Amazon, Etsy (search “unfinished wood floater frame”), and even Walmart’s website often have shockingly good deals. Local thrift stores? Goldmines. We once found a solid oak 24x36" floater frame for $8 at a Goodwill—just needed a little sanding and matte black paint. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist? Full of folks upgrading their decor and offloading frames for pennies. And don’t sleep on discount chains like HomeGoods or TJ Maxx—they rotate art and frames constantly, and you’ll often find designer-looking pieces for half retail. The secret to scoring a cheap canvas frame isn’t luck—it’s consistency. Check weekly. Set alerts. Be ready to pounce. Your future gallery wall will thank you.

How to Inexpensively Frame a Canvas Without Looking Like You Tried Too Little

Here’s the thing: “inexpensive” shouldn’t mean “half-baked.” You can frame your canvas on a budget and still make it look intentional, elevated, and damn near expensive. Start with a simple floater frame—it creates that coveted “floating art” effect without needing glass (which adds cost and glare). Stick to neutral tones: black, white, natural wood, or matte gray. They go with everything and never scream “I was desperate.” Sand any rough edges, apply a quick coat of Minwax if it’s raw wood, and voilà—instant cohesion. And please, skip the glitter glue. We believe in you. With a thoughtful cheap canvas frame, your art doesn’t just hang—it *lives*.

Wait—Do You Even Need a Frame for Canvas Prints?

Hot take: sometimes, the best cheap canvas frame is… no frame at all. Modern canvas prints come gallery-wrapped, meaning the image continues around the sides of the stretcher bars. Hang it as-is, and boom—you’ve got clean, contemporary, frame-free art that costs exactly $0 extra. This works especially well for landscapes, abstracts, or photos with ample negative space. Just make sure the sides aren’t white or blank—unless that’s your aesthetic (minimalist chic, we see you). So before you stress about framing, ask: does this piece *need* it? Often, the answer’s a graceful “nah.” Save that cash for matching throw pillows instead.

What to Watch Out for When Buying Cheap Canvas Frames Online

Not all that glitters is gold—and not all “cheap canvas frames” online are worth your shipping fee. Watch for these red flags:

Vague material descriptions (“wood composite” = probably particleboard)
No dimensions listed for rabbet depth or outer size
Reviews complaining about warping or poor joinery
Photos that look suspiciously stock (could mean generic, low-quality product)

Always read recent reviews, especially ones with customer photos. And if a deal seems too good—like a 30x40" solid walnut frame for $12—it probably is. Stick to sellers with 4+ stars and clear return policies. Remember: a cheap canvas frame should save you money, not give you nightmares when it arrives looking like a sad popsicle stick collage.

Can You Repurpose Old Frames Into Cheap Canvas Frames?

Yessirree! Got an old picture frame from Grandma’s attic? Don’t toss it—transform it. Most traditional photo frames can be converted into canvas frames by removing the glass and backing, then adding spacers or building up the rabbet with thin wood strips. It’s a weekend project, but the payoff? One-of-a-kind character with zero carbon footprint. We turned a chipped 1950s gold frame into a moody charcoal floater for a forest print—now it’s the star of our entryway. Upcycling isn’t just eco-friendly; it’s storytelling. And honestly? That’s the richest kind of cheap canvas frame you can own.

Ready to Frame That Canvas Without Crying Over Your Bank Statement?

If you’re nodding along like, “Okay, I’m done letting my art collect dust in the corner,” then welcome to the club. Framing your canvas doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for interior designers or trust fund babies. With a little savvy, a few coupons, and maybe a trip to the local thrift store, you can give your favorite prints the spotlight they deserve—all while keeping your wallet happy. Go ahead—measure your canvas, browse those sales, and treat yourself to a cheap canvas frame that feels anything but cheap.

For more wallet-friendly art hacks, swing by our Maija Louekari homepage. Explore more framing tricks in our Canvas category. Or compare print-and-frame options in our guide Canvas Photo Prints at Walgreens: A Convenient Option. Your walls are waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to inexpensively frame a canvas?

To inexpensively frame a canvas, opt for a simple floater frame from discount retailers, use coupons at Michaels or Hobby Lobby, shop secondhand, or go frame-free with a gallery-wrapped print. A well-chosen cheap canvas frame can look high-end without the price tag—just focus on clean lines, neutral finishes, and proper fit.

Is it cheaper to DIY a canvas frame?

Usually, no. Unless you already own tools and materials, DIYing a canvas frame often costs more in time and supplies than buying a pre-made cheap canvas frame. Ready-made options start under $25 USD and save you hours of measuring, cutting, and sanding—making them the smarter budget choice for most folks.

Will Hobby Lobby frame a canvas?

Hobby Lobby sells canvas frames (mostly floater styles) but doesn’t offer custom framing services for customer-supplied canvases. However, you can buy a ready-made cheap canvas frame in-store or online—especially during their frequent 50% off sales—to frame your art yourself at home.

Does Michaels have frames for canvas?

Yes, Michaels carries a variety of canvas frames, including floater styles designed specifically for stretched canvas art. With their regular 40–50% off coupons, you can often find a quality cheap canvas frame for under $30 USD—just avoid paying full price!