Can You Frame Plant Prints for Outdoor Garden Walls?
So, you have a yard wall that is empty and begs for some love. You've found the perfect patio furniture and taken care of your green space. Now you want to add that one last unique touch. It might sound like a dream to have bright, lush plant prints all over your outdoor space, but the harsh Australian climate—with its intense heat and unpredictable rain—can be a nightmare for anything that wasn't made to last. Can you really frame pictures of plants to put on the walls of your garden?
The quick answer is a resounding "yes!" But before you rush off to hang your favourite prints from inside to outside, here are some important things to think about. It is possible to make a beautiful and long-lasting outdoor art piece if you have the right tools and know-how. Let's look at some ways you could turn that plain wall into a striking focus point.
Everything Depends on Preparation: Choosing Your Gear
Think of Australia's weather as a very tough opponent. Your valuable prints need to be protected in the best way possible. This starts with the image, which is the most important part of your work. Normal paper and paints are clearly not a good idea. They will fade, twist, and break faster than ice cream melts on a hot summer day.
Instead, pick things that are made for being outside. Look for printers that use UV-resistant prints on strong, waterproof materials like:
- Metal
- Treated canvas
- Special synthetic papers
Especially made to stand up to our strong sun, these won't turn into mush at the first sign of rain. Buying art that will last a long time may cost a little more at first, but it is well worth it.
Building for the Elements: The Fortress
Once you have a strong picture, the next step is framing a print to give it the best protection. Don't throw away that old garage door frame just yet. If wood isn't cleaned properly, it will swell, rot, and become a home for bugs that you don't want.
Frame Materials
The best materials for outdoor frames are those that don't get damaged by the weather. These include:
- Powder-coated metal
- Galvanised steel
These options won't rust or corrode. To make it look more natural, you should use hardwoods like teak or cypress, which are known for being strong and long-lasting.
Protective Glazing and Sealing
That being said, the frame is only one part of the issue. The glazing, the clear layer that protects your picture, is just as important. Standard glass is not only fragile, but it also doesn't protect you much from the sun's UV rays. Pick polycarbonate or glass that blocks UV light. These "sunscreens" for your art are light, won't break, and, most importantly, will keep those beautiful greens from turning a sad, washed-out yellow.
If you want a really waterproof seal, make sure the back of the frame is just as strong. You need to have a strong, waterproof backing board. To go the extra mile, you could put a bead of clear silicone glue around the inside edge where the backing board sits and the glass meets the frame. It will make a shield that doesn't let water through, so humidity and rain stay outside the frame.
How to Design Your Outdoor Masterpiece: Ideas and Inspiration
The fun starts once your plant prints are ready to go outside. Think of the wall in your yard as a canvas. A dramatic statement piece could be made by hanging one large picture. Think about how a beautiful monstera leaf print could bring a touch of the tropics to your Melbourne courtyard or a bright banksia print could bring some local colour to your Perth patio.
Instead, why not create gallery wal prints? A set of smaller plant prints that go well together can add a touch of class to your outdoor living area. Try out different frame styles and sizes to make an arrangement that is dynamic and lively. To add texture and depth, you could even mix in other types of art that can be used outside, like metal or ceramic statues.
When it comes to placement, a little bit of strategy goes a long way. Even though your prints are now well protected, you can always make them last longer by putting them somewhere that doesn't get direct afternoon sun. Good choices include:
- A covered patio
- A shady spot
- A wall with a beautiful gum tree in the shade
A Garden That Was Made Just for You
As unique as you are, your yard should be a place where you can relax and recharge. By thoroughly preparing and protecting your chosen plant pictures, you can effectively expand your living space and create an outdoor gallery that is just as beautiful and inviting as the natural environment.
So go ahead and make something new! To make a room that speaks to you, try out different prints, frames, and layouts. We're excited to see what you make! Use the space below for comments to share your ideas for outdoor garden walls and inspire other Australians with green skills.