Another tip when you are designing a piece that is to be framed.
If you are not going to have a custom frame, it is wise to have a selection of standard sized mats.
You may want to adjust your layout so that it fits nicely within the dimensions of the opening.
Or if you do not want to have mats on hand, you may draw a pencil line for reference.
I like to do layouts on graph paper.
It helps to keep things in a grid, which is one of the tips on the PDF.
When doing commissioned pieces, it is wise to discuss the framing before you do the artwork.
You may ask clients with a modest budget to supply the mat and frame and then you can do the
artwork to suit the frame.
Most clients appreciate suggestions for frames and I like to steer them towards choices that I think will look best.
It is always sad to see a nice piece of art that has been stuck in the wrong frame
because somebody did not have a good eye for how to frame the piece.
Jean