When artwork extends beyond the back of a picture frame, offset clips are one of the easiest and most reliable ways to secure it. Whether you're framing a canvas panel, wood-mounted artwork, or any piece that's thicker than the frame's rabbet, offset clips help keep everything firmly in place.

At Articient, you can add offset clips to your traditional frame hardware kit when purchasing one of our traditional picture frames, so you'll have the hardware you need for installation right out of the box.

Here are a few tips to help you get the best results when using offset clips.

Tip #1: Understand When Offset Clips Are Needed

Offset clips are designed for artwork that sits proud of the back of the frame because it's thicker than the frame's rabbet.

They're commonly used for:

• Canvas panels
• Wood panels
• Mounted photographs
• Needlework
• Artwork with thick backing boards
• Other dimensional artwork

If your artwork doesn't sit completely inside the frame, offset clips are often the best solution.

Tip #2: Check Your Frame's Rabbet Depth

Before choosing your hardware, measure both:

• The thickness of your artwork
• The rabbet depth of your frame

If the artwork is thicker than the rabbet, it will extend beyond the back of the frame—which is exactly what offset clips are designed to accommodate.

Not sure what a rabbet is? Read our guide on Rabbets, Framing, and Offset Clips to learn how rabbet depth affects your framing project.

Tip #3: Use the Correct Size Offset Clip

Offset clips are available in different depths.

Choose a clip that reaches over the back of your artwork without forcing it tightly against the frame.

A properly sized clip should:

• Hold the artwork securely
• Apply gentle pressure
• Avoid bending or distorting the frame

Using a clip that's too shallow may not secure the artwork properly, while one that's too deep may allow movement.

Tip #4: Space Clips Evenly

Even spacing helps distribute pressure across the artwork.

As a general guideline:

• Small frames: 4 clips
• Medium frames: 6–8 clips
• Large or heavy frames: Use additional clips around the perimeter

Heavier artwork benefits from more support points.

Tip #5: Don't Overtighten the Screws

When fastening the clips:

• Tighten until the artwork is secure.
• Stop once the clip is snug.

Overtightening can damage wood frames or place unnecessary pressure on the artwork.

Tip #6: Double-Check the Artwork Before Tightening

Before installing all of the clips, make sure the artwork is:

• Centered in the frame
• Sitting squarely
• Properly aligned

Making adjustments is much easier before every clip has been installed.

Tip #7: Order Offset Clips with Your Frame

If you're ordering a traditional picture frame from Articient, you can add offset clips as an option with your frame hardware kit during checkout.

This ensures you receive the proper mounting hardware with your frame instead of purchasing it separately later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use offset clips instead of framing points?

Yes—when artwork extends beyond the rabbet depth. Framing points work best when everything fits completely inside the frame, while offset clips are designed for thicker pieces.

Will offset clips show from the front?

No. Offset clips are installed on the back of the frame and are completely hidden when the artwork is displayed.

Are offset clips reusable?

Yes. They can usually be removed and reused when replacing artwork or reframing.

Make Framing Thick Artwork Easy

Offset clips are an inexpensive piece of hardware that can make a big difference when framing artwork that's thicker than your frame's rabbet. By choosing the correct clip size, spacing them evenly, and avoiding overtightening, you can create a secure, professional-looking installation that will last for years.

When you order a traditional frame from Articient, you can add offset clips to your hardware kit so you'll have everything you need to complete your framing project with confidence.