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People often call or stop in with questions about custom picture framing and we are pleased to be able to answer them.
How much does it cost to frame a photograph? There is no one answer to this question. It depends on the kind of frame, the number, and kind of mat(s), and type of glass that the buyer may want. It can be done relatively inexpensively, or it can cost a bit more. We do have high quality ready made, photo frames for less than the cost of a custom frame design.
Do you have frames whose materials are environmentally friendly? There is a strong trend in the industry to produce frames that are produced in a sustainable process and made from green products and therefore are considered environmentally sound. We are always researching products that we feel will meet the high standards of our customers.
Why would I choose to go to a custom frame shop? Again, there is no simple answer to this question. It will depend on what you want to frame, how much and in what way you value it, and how you want it presented in your home or office. If it is a simple photo or perhaps an inexpensive print or painting and you want a simple, quick presentation, it may make sense to pick up a ready made frame at a discount store. Keep in mind that we always carry a selection of high quality photo frames that may fit your budget. Alternatively, if it is a one-of-a-kind heirloom family photo, a collectible item or an artwork with investment value, then you will want custom framing. We recommend preservation quality framing. It will be important to use acid free mat(s), glass that offers U/V protection and to choose a frame that best complements the artwork. Custom framing will do that for you.
What is your “Quality Condition Check” (QCC): It’s a good idea to review any art work that you already have that is valuable to you to ensure that it has been framed in a way that is preserving and not damaging it. You may be able to do this yourself, or you can bring it into our shop for our free, non-invasive, “Quality Condition Check” (QCC) or call us for an on-site check. As you can see, there is a lot to consider. Check the visible edges of mat windows. If they have turned brown or are otherwise discolored then the mats are not acid free. The acids left in the mat during its production are most likely leaching into your artwork and degrading it. Glass is tougher to judge, but if it is regular glass and not conservation quality, then ultra-violet light from exposure to the sun, fluorescent, or other bright lights will equally cause the work to fade. The art should not be against the glass. There should be a space between. Many frames are made from wood or wood products that also can leach acids into an art work where it is in contact with the rabbet of the frame. Torn or missing backing paper exposes your art to dust, moisture, or insect damage. Other things to consider include: Are the corners of the frame solidly joined? Is the hanging hardware loose? Is the wire frayed or rusted? Are there bumpers on the bottom corners to protect our walls?
What is involved in a “semi-custom framing job”? Semi-custom work involves having us add a custom-cut mat and/or upgrading the glass on a ready made package. We may also be able to help you re-use a frame that you already own. This may or may not be cost effective for you. If your frame is in such bad repair, or requires extensive clean-up before it can be used, the additional labor involved may offset any savings. We can only determine this on a case by case basis and estimates are free.
Custom Questions: It is only the unasked questions that one truly regrets. So, if you have questions for us regarding custom art framing, our custom services or our gallery offerings, we encourage you to stop in or if you prefer, email us your question at our address posted on the “How to reach us” page. One of us will get back to you within 24 hours with a snappy and timely answer to your inquiry.
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