The cost of framing art or printed photos takes many a person by surprise. As it is often the final part of decorating your home, or even a refreshing of your interior, there may not be much left to spend on the frames that will adorn your walls.
That does not mean you have to settle for mediocre wall displays. The cost of picture frames can be significantly reduced if you know exactly what you need.
Not just the size, but the materials the frame is made of, and how it is put together. More specifically, how well the joints are on the corners of the frame.
Ever noticed in the chain stores that the corners of the frames are covered with cardboard? That is to protect them should the frame take a tumble, however, that is also the part of the frame that you need to inspect. The more robust the joints are, the sturdier the frame will be.
Mass-produced frames have their place in the home. Particularly when you are on a tight budget. That place is for smaller frames to suit print sizes of A5 and smaller. An A5 frame is 148.5 x 210 mm. The size you would use to display photos on a mantel, side table, dresser, or desk. They wouldn’t usually be hung on the wall unless you are creating a huge gallery wall installation that required the use of small picture frames.
For the larger wall art of A4 prints, poster sizes and larger, that is when the professional frames serve you well. They do not need to cost a fortune either.
The cost of custom framing is higher when you work one-on-one with a picture framer because they have to factor for time. Time is money. When you know the exact specifications of your framing requirements, there are savings to be had. More so when you shop online, even at a custom framer.
When all a framer has to do is make the frame in the size you need, including your choice of mount board, and your choice of glazing, all you pay for is material, labour, and shipping costs. Putting your frame together can be done yourself, saving a significant amount of money. It is the expertise of framers that are included in custom frame prices. Not just the quality of materials and robustness of the frame that is made.
There is a difference between having art custom framed and buying a custom cut frame for your art. The latter is the purchase of a frame only and you frame the art yourself.
Whether you choose to buy a custom frame online, or in store, experienced picture framers build far superior frames, paying close attention to the joints to ensure they hold up, use a material that’s known to be longer-lasting, and the recesses are precisely cut to fit the glazing ensuring complete enclosure to protect all types of artwork enclosed within the frame.
You can opt to have a framer professional frame your artwork, which is recommended for premium works of art. For photos that you have printed to frame and display, the larger your print is, the sturdier a frame will be required. That is when to use a custom framer.