A shadow box is an enclosed glass-front display case containing an object or objects presented in a thematic grouping with artistic or personal significance. The grouping of the objects and the depth effect created by their relative heights from the backing creates a dramatic visual result.

A picture that has or appears to have height, width and depth is three-dimensional (or 3-D). A picture that has height and width but no depth is two-dimensional (or 2-D).

A float frame, as the name implies, is designed in such a way that the artwork appears to float within the frame; it is not pressed behind a piece of glass. Because of this illusion, viewers of your artwork gain a sense of three-dimensional depth when viewing the piece.

Unlike finish carpentry, framing doesn't have to look perfect or satisfy your desire to fit together two pieces of wood precisely. Whether you're building a house, an addition, or a simple wall, the goals when framing are strength, efficiency, and accuracy.