Framing a Persian Rug: A Bespoke Textile Framing Challenge

At our bespoke framing studio, we’re often asked to frame items that go beyond traditional
artwork — from vintage garments to keepsakes and textiles. One recent project stood out as
both a technical and creative challenge: framing a Persian rug that was a full ¾ inch thick
(around 2 cm).

The Client’s Vision

Our client wanted their hand-woven Persian rug displayed in a frame with Artglass and a 2-
inch border — an elegant design that would protect the rug while showing off its intricate
patterns and craftsmanship.

The First Challenge: Depth and Structure

Most picture frame mouldings have a shallow rebate, suitable for flat artworks or canvases.
This rug, however, required a recess depth of at least 2 cm to sit comfortably within the
frame without pressing against the glazing.
After searching through several moulding collections, we sourced a deep moulding with the
right structural strength and visual balance to complement the rug’s rich tones. The depth
allowed the rug to sit neatly within the frame while maintaining the clean, gallery-style look
the client wanted.

The Second Challenge: Mounting Without Damage

Framing textiles — especially antique or handmade ones — requires great care. Traditional
mounting methods like adhesives or stitching can easily damage the fibres of a Persian rug,
so we needed a non-invasive textile mounting solution.
To solve this, we created a discreet support system behind the piece, allowing the rug to
rest securely against the mountboard without being permanently fixed. This method
provided both stability and conservation, ensuring the rug could be safely displayed or
removed in the future without harm.

The Finishing Touches

The rug was then glazed with Artglass, which offers museum-quality clarity and UV
protection. This ensures that every detail of the weave remains visible while safeguarding
the colours from fading over time. The 2-inch border added depth and visual breathing
space, making the finished piece both striking and sophisticated.

The Result

The finished frame showcased the beauty and texture of the Persian rug perfectly — a piece
that now functions as both art and heirloom. It was a reminder that with the right materials
and expertise, even the most challenging objects can be transformed into timeless wall art.
Bring Your Own Textiles to Life
If you have a textile, rug, or object you’d love to frame — whether it’s a family heirloom, a
travel treasure, or a unique piece of fabric art — our team specialises in bespoke object
framing and textile conservation framing. We’ll help you design a custom frame that
protects your piece while displaying it beautifully.

​Visit our studio or get in touch to discuss your project — we love turning meaningful
items into extraordinary framed displays.