Chip Custom Carved Frames in Denver

Chip-carved frames are a hand-carved style where small “chips” of wood are removed to create crisp, geometric patterns. At AUM Framing & Gallery, this look works naturally with our closed-corner, hand-carved frames that begin in raw wood and are finished after assembly.

Chip-carved motifs can be paired with gilded, painted, or stained finishes to complement anything from period artwork to contemporary pieces.

What is chip carving?

Chip carving uses shallow cuts to form facets, triangles, rosettes, and repeat borders.

The facets catch light and add texture without overpowering the artwork. Because the carving is done in the wood before finishing, the pattern reads cleanly whether the frame is gilded, painted, or stained.

Design options

Common applications include narrow border bands, corner accents, center medallions, and repeating field patterns. Pattern scale can be subtle or more pronounced depending on the artwork and frame width. During your design session, we’ll review options and recommend proportions that suit your piece.

Finishes that pair well

- Gilded (gold or silver leaf): the facets reflect light for a classic look.

- Painted or stained: highlights the carving while keeping a clean, modern feel.

The tone of leaf or paint can be adjusted with underlayers so the frame harmonizes with your artwork.

When are custom carved frames are a good fit?

- Traditional or period-inspired art that benefits from restrained ornament

- Contemporary pieces that need texture without heavy moulding detail

- Works on paper, canvases, and mirrors where a crisp geometric border elevates the presentation.

Start a free picture frame design session

Bring your artwork in and we’ll walk you through chip-carved pattern choices, profiles, and finishes to create a frame that fits your piece and your budget.

We respect your privacy. By sending this form, you consent to be contacted by our team. Your information will never be shared.

Privacy Policy | TOS