What is the difference between frame finishes?
Finishes refer to the final treatment applied to the surface of a material, in this case wood, with the purpose of protecting it, enhancing its aesthetic appearance, and modifying its tactile characteristics. In the context of picture frames and photo frames, finishes determine not only the visual appearance of the wood – which can be glossy, matte, satin, or antiqued – but also the feel and resistance of the material. Finishes can protect wood from wear, moisture, and scratches, as well as enhance or tone down the natural grain and texture. Choosing a finish means deciding the final effect you want to achieve, influencing the style and character of the object, which can range from rustic to modern, from natural to sophisticated.
Decapé: The decapé finish is a decoration technique that gives wood an aged and worn look. The term "decapé" comes from the French "decapare", which means "to remove". The process consists of treating the wood with varnishes or paints, which are then partially removed to reveal the natural colour of the wood underneath, especially in the grain and grooves. This effect highlights the grain of the wood and gives a vintage look, often associated with styles such as Provence, shabby chic or country. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a rustic and decorative look.
Open pore: The open pore finish, on the other hand, enhances the natural structure of the wood while keeping the pores and grain visible. In this type of treatment, the wood is treated so as not to fill the pores with paints or covering finishes, thus allowing the texture and naturalness of the wood to be appreciated. This type of finish gives a more natural and material appearance, maintaining a sensation of authenticity to the touch. It is often used on woods with a marked grain such as oak or ash, and is appreciated in modern and minimalist contexts.
Matte: A matte finish is characterized by a non-glossy surface. This type of finish is smooth to the touch but does not reflect light, giving a more sober and discreet appearance. It is ideal for those who prefer a more natural and less reflective effect on the wood.
Finish - Satin: A satin finish, on the other hand, has a slight sheen. This type of finish is glossier than a matte finish but less shiny than a glossy finish. The satin surface reflects light very slightly, creating a slightly more elegant effect without being too shiny.
Glossy: The glossy finish is distinguished by its extremely shiny and reflective surface. This type of treatment enhances the appearance of the wood, making it smooth and polished to the touch, with a shine that captures and reflects light in a decisive way. The glossy finish gives the wood a sophisticated and visually striking appearance, accentuating the details of the grain and shades of the wood. It is often chosen for elegant or modern environments, where a brighter and more refined effect is desired compared to matte or satin finishes.
Decapé: The decapé finish is a decoration technique that gives wood an aged and worn look. The term "decapé" comes from the French "decapare", which means "to remove". The process consists of treating the wood with varnishes or paints, which are then partially removed to reveal the natural colour of the wood underneath, especially in the grain and grooves. This effect highlights the grain of the wood and gives a vintage look, often associated with styles such as Provence, shabby chic or country. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a rustic and decorative look.
Open pore: The open pore finish, on the other hand, enhances the natural structure of the wood while keeping the pores and grain visible. In this type of treatment, the wood is treated so as not to fill the pores with paints or covering finishes, thus allowing the texture and naturalness of the wood to be appreciated. This type of finish gives a more natural and material appearance, maintaining a sensation of authenticity to the touch. It is often used on woods with a marked grain such as oak or ash, and is appreciated in modern and minimalist contexts.
Matte: A matte finish is characterized by a non-glossy surface. This type of finish is smooth to the touch but does not reflect light, giving a more sober and discreet appearance. It is ideal for those who prefer a more natural and less reflective effect on the wood.
Finish - Satin: A satin finish, on the other hand, has a slight sheen. This type of finish is glossier than a matte finish but less shiny than a glossy finish. The satin surface reflects light very slightly, creating a slightly more elegant effect without being too shiny.
Glossy: The glossy finish is distinguished by its extremely shiny and reflective surface. This type of treatment enhances the appearance of the wood, making it smooth and polished to the touch, with a shine that captures and reflects light in a decisive way. The glossy finish gives the wood a sophisticated and visually striking appearance, accentuating the details of the grain and shades of the wood. It is often chosen for elegant or modern environments, where a brighter and more refined effect is desired compared to matte or satin finishes.