Magnetic Frames for Art Prints

'Let's Get Naked' print. Yellow with the words graffiti-style in pink with a black outline. Funny humour wall art. Colour Combo 7. On apartment wall. MaadWeb.

So you’ve found the perfect print and decided where you want to put it, now you just have to choose the right frame. Struggling? You’re definitely not the only one. So many of us hit a brick wall (sorry, pun intended) when we try to choose the right frame – especially when the old-school options are pricey, fiddly, and, let’s be honest, sometimes a bit of a pain. That’s where magnetic frames swoop in like heroes. They’re modern, stylish, and – best of all – ridiculously simple. In this post, we’ll chat about magnetic frames for art prints: what they are (including the two main types), why they’re brilliant, and how they can make your prints look their absolute best.

Whether you’re into lyric prints, cheeky quotes, or sports-themed designs, magnetic frames might just be the best little upgrade your walls have ever had.

Table Of Contents

What Are Magnetic Frames?
Why Magnetic Frames Are Perfect for Art Prints
The Pros and Cons
Magnetic Frames vs. Traditional Frames
Choosing the Right Magnetic Frame for Your Print
How to Hang a Magnetic Frame (Without Losing Your Temper)
Where to Buy Magnetic Frames in the UK
Conclusion
FAQ

What Are Magnetic Frames?

Let’s clear this up first – there are actually two main types of magnetic frames.

The Magnetic Poster Hanger Style

This is the type where two pairs of wooden (or metal) strips have strong magnets inside. You pop the top and bottom of your print between them – no nails, no glass, no stress. There’s usually a cord or string attached to the top strip, so you can hang it straight on a wall hook or nail. Sleek, minimal, and super easy to swap out your prints whenever the mood strikes.

It’s a bit like those old-school poster hangers, but with a modern twist and much stronger magnets (so your lovely A3 print won’t fall off the wall the second someone shuts a door too hard). If you’re struggling to grasp what I’m trying (terribly) to explain, have a look at this hanging magnetic frame.

Standard Magnetic Frames

These look more like a traditional frame – rectangular and solid – but they snap together with magnets rather than screws or clips. They often have a clear front panel (sometimes acrylic) and a backing that sandwiches your print in place. The magnets make it simple to assemble and take apart, so swapping prints is still way less hassle than with your typical frame. Plus, they can protect your print a little more, like glass frames do.

So whether you like the casual, floaty look of the poster hanger style or prefer something a bit more enclosed and formal, there’s a magnetic frame option out there.

Why Magnetic Frames Are Perfect for Art Prints

Let’s be honest: if you’re anything like our regular customers, you probably own far more prints than you have space for. One minute it’s all about your Arctic Monkeys lyric print, and the next you’re feeling your retro Coventry City chant print instead. Magnetic frames – both types – make it super easy to switch things up whenever the mood takes you.

If you’re a fan of easy change picture frames, these magnetic options are the ultimate upgrade for your home décor.

They’re spot on for:

Lyric prints – swap them out as often as your latest Spotify obsession changes
Funny quotes – perfect for kitchens, loos, and anywhere you want to give people a chuckle
Sports prints – rotate them depending on who your team;’s playing or which chanht’s your current favourite

One of our lovely customers, Michael from Coventry, told me he has a little ritual: “If Coventry City play at home, I make sure my ‘Twist & Shout’ print is on display. If they play away, I change it to my ‘We Live and Die in These Towns’ print. It’ll stay that way until the next match. Silly I know, but if it helps them win like they have been, I’ll keep doing it! Either way it keeps the house feeling fresh without me having to paint a wall or buy new stuff.”

The Pros and Cons

Pros

Dead easy to use: No tools, no faff. A toddler could probably do it (though maybe keep them away from the prints)
No damage: No need to hammer nails or clamp your prints under glass (especially with the hanger type)
Light as a feather: Ideal if you rent or just don’t fancy drilling holes everywhere
Super versatile: Works for all sorts of sizes – A4, A3, A2 and probably even bigger
Choice of styles: Go minimal with a hanger, or choose the standard enclosed frame for a more classic look

Cons

Poster hangers show the strips: Some people prefer that fully enclosed frame look
Standard magnetic frames can be pricier: Especially the acrylic-fronted ones
Not for precious prints: If it’s signed or rare, you might still want proper UV protection and a sealed frame

Magnetic Frames vs. Traditional Frames

Don’t get me wrong – traditional frames are great, especially for gallery walls or valuable stuff. But for everyday prints, magnetic frames win hands down for their ease and flexibility.

Framing prints the traditional way can be a bit of a faff – heavy glass, wall plugs, spirit levels, and a fair bit of patience required. Magnetic frames, though? They take all that stress away. Pop your print in, snap the magnets together, and hang it up – no tools, no drama. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves switching up their art regularly without turning their wall into a DIY battlefield. More and more print lovers are making the swap for this very reason, and once you try it, you’ll probably wonder why you ever bothered with the old way.

Banana for Scale print - Magnetic Frames for Art Prints

Choosing the Right Magnetic Frame for Your Print

A few tips so you get it spot on:

Decide the look you want: Go for the hanger style if you love that relaxed, floaty vibe. Pick a standard enclosed magnetic frame if you want a more polished, gallery look
Size matters: Make sure your frame matches your print (A4, A3, etc.). Most magnetic frames grip just the edges, so they won’t cover any of the artwork
Pick your material: Oak and walnut give a warm, natural feel. Black or white looks sleek and minimal
Cord colour (hanger style): A little detail, but choosing a cord that suits your wall colour can make everything look more put together

How to Hang a Magnetic Frame (Without Losing Your Temper)

For Poster Hanger Style:

Pop your print between the magnetic strips – top and bottom
Hang the cord on a hook, nail, or adhesive hanger
Tweak and level – step back, squint a bit, and nudge until it looks straight

For Standard Magnetic Frames:

Snap open the frame (usually the magnets pull apart easily)
Sandwich your print between the clear panel and the backing
Let the magnets snap shut – satisfying, honestly
Hang just like a normal frame, using the hooks or stand it comes with

How to Hang Prints Without Glass Safely

One of the biggest perks of using a magnetic poster hanger is ditching the heavy, reflective glass. However, many people worry about their art being “exposed.” Here’s how to do it like a pro while keeping your prints in mint condition:

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Without a glass UV barrier, prints are more prone to fading. Hang your artwork on a wall that doesn’t get blasted by direct afternoon sun to keep those pinks and yellows popping.
The “Clean Hands” Rule: Because there’s no glass to wipe clean, any oils from your fingers will go straight onto the paper. Always wash and dry your hands before snapping the magnetic strips into place.
Mind the Humidity: Steam is the enemy of paper. While magnetic frames look great in a bathroom, the lack of a sealed frame means the print might “wave” or curl over time if it gets too damp. Save the glassless look for hallways, bedrooms, or living areas.
Check the Magnet Strength: For heavier, high-gsm cardstock, ensure your magnetic hanger has “extra-strength” neodymium magnets. This prevents the print from slowly sliding out and getting creased on the floor.

No spirit level? No problem. Do what the rest of us do: shout for someone from the other room to say, “Bit to the left… no, too much… back a bit!” Or you could use something else in the room (another wall or shelf) to square it up. This is easier if everything is how it should be, although in my new build things can be a bit ‘wobbly’ shall we say?

Where to Buy Magnetic Frames in the UK

Good news: they’re pretty easy to get hold of nowadays. Here’s where to look:

Amazon UK – loads of choice, both hanger and standard types
IKEA – stylish and budget-friendly
Etsy – lots of handmade and custom-sized options
Specialist print shops (like us!) – some of us now offer frames that fit our designs

Conclusion

So there you have it – magnetic frames for art prints are an absolute game-changer. Whether you prefer the casual cool of a hanger style or the clean, modern look of an enclosed magnetic frame, they’re easy, affordable, and perfect if you love swapping out your prints without all the usual hassle.

Whether you’re a lyrics lover, quote collector, or sports fan, magnetic frames let you show off your style without breaking a sweat.

Next time you treat yourself to a new print, why not give magnetic frames a go? Your walls – and your patience – will thank you.

Give your prints the modern wall art display they deserve.

FAQ

What sizes do magnetic frames come in?

Magnetic frames come in loads of sizes, with A4, A3, and A2 being the most popular – perfect for most prints you’ll find online or at markets. But if you’ve got something a bit quirky, like an odd-sized festival poster or a custom lyric print, don’t worry. Loads of places offer custom sizes, so you can frame pretty much anything from a little A5 print right up to a massive statement piece.

Will they damage my prints?

Nope, that’s one of the best bits about them! Magnetic frames are super kind to your prints. There’s no need for tape, pins, or glue – they simply grip around the edges using magnets, keeping your artwork safe and sound. So, whether you’re switching things up every few months or keeping the same print on show, you won’t get any nasty marks or creases.

Are they strong enough for heavier prints?

They’re tougher than they look! Enclosed magnetic frames can easily handle heavier prints and even lightweight art boards. If you’re using the poster hanger style, they work brilliantly with regular art prints and posters. But if you’re framing something extra thick, like card stock or fabric, you might want to go for an enclosed frame – just to be on the safe side and make sure everything stays put.

Can I use them in rented homes?

Absolutely – they’re ideal for renters! Because they’re lightweight, you can often hang them with sticky hooks or those clever removable strips, meaning no drilling and no filling holes when you move out. Perfect if you’re in a rental, student digs, or just someone who prefers to avoid faffing around with tools.

Where’s the best place to get them?

You’ve got loads of choice. Big stores like Amazon, IKEA, and Etsy have plenty of options, whether you’re after something budget-friendly or a bit more high-end. And if you want frames that are a perfect fit for your prints, lots of print shops stock magnetic frames designed to match standard print sizes. That way, you know they’ll look spot on without any trimming or guesswork.

Shop now and give your room the glow-up it deserves!