Budget Framing: Smart Choices for Custom Art Displays

Photographed by: Massart Photography

Custom framing, much like custom tailoring, is inherently going to be expensive. The process involves skilled frame shop staff who collaborate closely with you to design a tailored framing solution that complements your artwork perfectly. From selecting the ideal materials to deciding on colors and styles, every detail is carefully considered to assemble your personalized frame.

Once you leave, that is when the magic happens. The staff prioritizes care for each and every frame that they assemble. It is all done with high-quality materials and with the latest technology; each cut and precisely measured to fit your art. This level of dedication and attention to detail is what really sets custom framing apart, transforming your ideas into a reality.

So what happens if you are on a budget, or if you feel your art isn't worth framing with a thousand dollar package?  We have options for you!

When evaluating the costs of frame materials, several key factors come into play: The size of the frame, the frame material, the glazing and matboards. Let’s go take a further in-depth look;

         1. Size of the Frame:

• • Although we really can’t do much about the sizing of the frame since it has to be big enough to fit your art; we can sometimes shrink it slightly to save on cost. Larger frames require more material and may also require additional structural support, which unavoidably increases the pricing.

         2. Frame Material:

• Even if the choices between two frames may look identical; the material of the frame can get quite pricey. For instance, solid hardwood frames are typically more expensive than those made of softwoods or synthetic materials. Another factor would be on your final decision to choose whether or not you want to get specialty finishes or custom treatments.

          3. Glazing:

• Another variable to keep in mind is the type of glass you end up choosing. Options that we offer range from museum grade acrylic, our most expensive and best option, all the way down to regular glass, which offers minimal protection. Even so, with the latter being more expensive; it offers more protective features and benefits in the long-term. Check out my blog post on Framing Brilliance: A Guide For Artists On Choosing The Right Glass for more background information.

          4. Matboards:

• Finally matboards are the bread and butter when it comes to custom framing, serving as both a visual enhancement and protective layer for your art. They come in various materials, including 100% cotton, museum-grade options, and wood pulp that has been treated to be acid-free, guaranteeing the preservation of your artwork. While rag-cotton matboards tend to be on the more expensive side, their quality often justifies the cost. Custom-cut matboards or those featuring special colors or textures usually carry a higher price tag compared to standard options, reflecting their unique qualities. If you’re curious to learn more about which options of matboard are most suitable for your art; feel free to read 50 Shades of White: Choosing The Right Mat.

There are a lot of choices to make in designing a frame, and choices can be overwhelming. We get this and promise to make the design process enjoyable and fun when we can. It should be a collaboration, not a shake-down! 

Enjoy your art and make your home beautiful, on your terms!