Where to Frame Your Artwork: The Complete Guide to Professional Framing Services
Finding the right place to frame your artwork can feel overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with something precious – whether it's a cherished family photograph, an expensive print, original artwork, or a sentimental piece that holds deep personal meaning. The quality of framing can make or break how your artwork looks and how well it's preserved over time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all your framing options, from local frame shops to online services, helping you make informed decisions that protect your art and fit your budget.
Understanding Professional Framing vs. DIY
Before diving into where to get your artwork framed, it's important to understand the difference between professional custom framing and do-it-yourself alternatives. Each has its place depending on your needs, budget, and the value of the artwork.
Professional Custom Framing
Professional framers offer expertise, quality materials, and preservation techniques that protect your artwork for decades or even centuries. They understand archival standards, proper mounting techniques, UV protection, and how to handle delicate or valuable pieces. Custom framing allows complete personalization – you choose every element from the mat color to the frame style to the type of glass.
When to Choose Professional Framing:
- Original artwork or valuable pieces
- Items with sentimental value like wedding invitations, diplomas, or heirloom photographs
- Delicate materials requiring special handling
- Pieces requiring conservation framing to museum standards
- Unusual sizes or shapes that don't fit standard frames
- When you want maximum customization and expert guidance
DIY and Ready-Made Framing
Do-it-yourself framing using ready-made frames from retail stores or online suppliers offers convenience and cost savings. Modern ready-made frames come in numerous sizes and styles, making them suitable for many projects.
When DIY Works Well:
- Standard-sized prints and posters
- Temporary displays or frequently changed artwork
- Budget-conscious projects
- Simple framing needs without special preservation requirements
- Learning projects where you want hands-on experience
Types of Professional Framing Services
Local Independent Frame Shops
Independent frame shops are often family-owned businesses that have served their communities for years or even generations. These establishments typically offer the highest level of personal service and craftsmanship.
Advantages:
- Personalized, face-to-face consultation with experienced framers
- Ability to see and touch frame samples in person
- Often employ certified professional framers with extensive training
- Can handle unusual or challenging projects requiring custom solutions
- Support local small businesses and artisans
- Usually offer warranty on workmanship
- Opportunity to develop ongoing relationships for all your framing needs
Considerations:
- Generally the most expensive option
- Turnaround time typically 2-4 weeks
- Limited hours compared to chain stores
- May have smaller selection of frame styles compared to large retailers
How to Find Quality Local Framers: Ask for recommendations from local artists, art galleries, or interior designers. Look for framers certified by the Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA), which indicates they've completed rigorous training. Check online reviews but pay attention to how the business responds to feedback. Visit the shop to assess cleanliness, organization, and professionalism.
National Chain Frame Shops
Chains like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann Fabrics, and AC Moore have framing departments that offer custom framing services alongside their craft supplies.
Advantages:
- Convenient locations with extended hours
- Regular sales and coupons can significantly reduce costs (often 40-70% off)
- Consistent quality standards across locations
- Large selection of frame molding and mat options
- Often can accommodate rush orders for additional fees
- Loyalty programs offer additional savings
Considerations:
- Framing staff expertise varies; some locations have well-trained professionals while others have high turnover
- Can be busy during peak times leading to longer wait times for consultation
- May prioritize speed over specialized techniques for challenging pieces
- Environment less conducive to focused consultation compared to quiet independent shops
Cost-Saving Tips: Never pay full price at chain frame shops – wait for sales or use coupons from their apps or weekly flyers. Sign up for email lists to receive exclusive offers. Some stores match competitor coupons. Consider timing your project around major sales events like Black Friday or back-to-school periods.
Art Gallery Framing Services
Many art galleries offer in-house framing or partner with professional framers, particularly for pieces purchased from the gallery.
Advantages:
- Framers understand art and artistic vision
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship as standard
- Aesthetic-focused approach ensuring framing enhances the artwork
- Convenient if framing pieces purchased from the gallery
- Often have relationships with artists and understand their intentions
Considerations:
- Premium pricing reflecting their upscale positioning
- May have limited frame style selection focused on current trends
- Primarily serves gallery customers; may not accept outside projects
- Can be intimidating for casual framing needs
Museum and Conservation Framers
These specialists focus on preservation and conservation, using archival materials and techniques that ensure artwork remains in pristine condition for generations.
Advantages:
- Highest level of expertise in preservation
- Understanding of archival standards and conservation techniques
- Ability to work with extremely valuable, delicate, or historic pieces
- Knowledge of proper environmental controls and materials
- Often required for insurance purposes on valuable artwork
- Reversible framing techniques that don't permanently alter artwork
Considerations:
- Significantly higher cost reflecting specialized expertise
- Longer turnaround times due to meticulous processes
- May be overkill for pieces without significant monetary or historic value
- Limited locations, primarily in larger cities
When Conservation Framing Is Essential: Original artwork by known artists, historic documents or photographs, family heirlooms, valuable prints, items requiring authentication or appraisal, museum-quality pieces, or anything you intend to pass down through generations.
Online Custom Framing Services
The digital age has brought framing services online, allowing you to design custom frames from home and receive finished pieces by mail.
Popular Online Framing Services:
Framebridge: Known for simple three-step ordering, high-quality results, and beautiful packaging. You send your artwork to them, receive digital previews of framing options, approve the design, and get it shipped back professionally framed. Premium pricing but excellent customer service. Best for valuable pieces where you want quality without local shop prices.
Level Frames: Modern aesthetic with limited but curated frame options. Easy online design tool with instant visualization. Competitive pricing with frequent promotions. Good balance of quality and affordability. Best for contemporary art and photography.
Simply Framed: Minimalist designs perfect for modern spaces. Excellent mat and frame quality. User-friendly website with clear pricing. Solid customer reviews for quality and service. Best for clean, contemporary framing needs.
Artifact Uprising: Specializes in framing personal photography. Simple designs that let photos shine. Good for multi-frame sets. Best for family photos and personal photography projects.
Custom frame websites like Frame It Easy and American Frame: Budget-friendly options where you measure and design yourself, then they ship you the custom frame to assemble. Best for experienced DIYers comfortable with precise measuring.
Advantages of Online Framing:
- Shop from home at any time
- Often less expensive than local shops while maintaining quality
- Clear upfront pricing without surprises
- Digital visualization tools let you see designs before committing
- Convenient for those without good local options
- Detailed tracking of your project
- Often includes shipping both ways
Considerations:
- No hands-on consultation or ability to see samples in person
- Must ship artwork, which can be nerve-wracking for valuable pieces
- Turnaround time includes shipping (usually 2-4 weeks total)
- Returns or adjustments require additional shipping time
- Measurement errors are your responsibility
- Can't accommodate unusual shapes or extremely large pieces
Big Box Retailers with Framing
Stores like Target, Walmart, and IKEA offer ready-made frames and sometimes basic custom framing services.
Advantages:
- Very affordable pricing
- Immediate availability for ready-made frames
- Convenient one-stop shopping
- Good for basic, temporary, or budget-conscious needs
Considerations:
- Limited customization options
- Lower quality materials and construction
- Not suitable for valuable or archival framing needs
- Staff typically not trained framers
- Very basic selection compared to dedicated frame shops
Specialty Framing Needs
Sports Memorabilia and Jersey Framing
Sports jerseys, signed balls, medals, and other memorabilia require specialized framing techniques and shadow boxes.
Best Options:
- Sports memorabilia specialists who understand proper display techniques
- Frame shops with experience in shadow box construction
- Some national chains have memorabilia departments
- Online services like Framebridge offer jersey framing
What to Look For: Experience with fabric mounting, UV-protective glass (essential for signed items), shadow box depth adequate for dimensional items, and knowledge of proper mounting techniques that don't damage fabric or materials.
Canvas Stretching
Original paintings on canvas require stretching over wooden frames before display or framing.
Best Options:
- Independent frame shops with canvas stretching services
- Art supply stores often offer this service
- Art schools sometimes offer student services at lower costs
- Some galleries provide stretching for purchased artwork
Considerations: Quality of stretcher bars (look for kiln-dried wood, proper bracing for large canvases), tight and even stretching, corners properly stapled, and experience with different canvas types.
Needlework and Textiles
Cross-stitch, embroidery, quilts, and other textile art require specialized mounting and framing.
Best Options:
- Frame shops specializing in needlework (common in areas with active stitching communities)
- Independent framers with textile experience
- Some online services like Framebridge accept needlework
Critical Considerations: Lacing or pinning rather than gluing, stretching without distorting the work, accommodation for dimensional elements, and spacers to keep glass from touching delicate stitching.
Mirrors and Glass Cutting
Some frame shops offer mirror framing and custom glass cutting services.
Best Options:
- Frame shops with glass cutting equipment
- Specialty glass and mirror shops
- Some hardware stores offer basic cutting services
Three-Dimensional Objects (Shadow Boxes)
Displaying medals, collectibles, shells, preserved flowers, or any dimensional objects requires shadow box framing.
Best Options:
- Frame shops experienced in shadow box construction
- Conservation framers for valuable collectibles
- Some online services offer standard depth shadow boxes
Key Considerations: Adequate depth for your objects, secure mounting that prevents shifting, museum putty or appropriate adhesives, and possible need for spacers to create multiple depth levels.
Vintage and Antique Frames
Sometimes you inherit or find beautiful vintage frames that need restoration or want to frame artwork in period-appropriate antique frames.
Best Options:
- Frame restoration specialists
- Antique dealers who restore frames
- Conservation framers familiar with historic frames
- Specialty shops focusing on vintage and antique frames
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Geographic Considerations
Urban vs. Rural Options
Urban dwellers typically have numerous framing options within close proximity, from budget chains to high-end galleries. Competition often means better pricing and specialization – you can find framers who specialize in particular types of work.
Rural residents may have limited local options but can leverage online framing services effectively. Building a relationship with a trusted local framer, even if it requires some travel, can be valuable for ongoing framing needs.
Regional Pricing Differences
Framing costs vary significantly by location. Major metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco typically charge 30-50% more than smaller cities or rural areas for comparable services. This is where online framing can level the playing field – pricing is often standardized regardless of your location.
Shipping Considerations
If using online services or shipping artwork to distant framers, consider:
- Insurance for valuable pieces
- Proper packaging (many online services provide shipping materials)
- Climate during shipping seasons (avoid extreme heat or cold for sensitive items)
- Tracking and signature requirements
What to Look for in a Professional Framer
Qualifications and Training
The Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) offers Certified Picture Framer (CPF) credentials requiring extensive training and examination. While not all excellent framers pursue certification, it indicates serious commitment to the craft.
Look for framers who:
- Can articulate proper archival techniques
- Understand pH-neutral materials and acid-free matting
- Know proper mounting methods (hinging vs. dry mounting)
- Can explain UV protection options
- Have knowledge of preservation best practices
- Show examples of previous work
Quality of Materials
Professional framers should offer:
- 100% rag, acid-free matting (crucial for preservation)
- UV-protective glass or acrylic options
- Solid wood or quality metal frame molding
- Proper backing materials
- Archival mounting techniques
Be wary if a framer:
- Only offers paper mats without discussing acid-free options
- Suggests dry mounting original artwork (this is permanent and reduces value)
- Uses regular glass without mentioning UV protection for valuable pieces
- Can't explain their materials or techniques
Design Expertise
Good framers act as designers, helping you make choices that enhance your artwork. They should:
- Ask questions about where the piece will hang
- Discuss your home's style and color palette
- Offer multiple options at different price points
- Explain why they're suggesting certain choices
- Welcome your input and preferences
- Show patience in helping you decide
Red flags include:
- Rushing you through decisions
- Pushing most expensive options without explaining benefits
- Dismissing your preferences
- Unable to offer creative solutions for challenging pieces
Customer Service
Professionalism matters:
- Clear communication about pricing, timeline, and process
- Detailed written estimates before work begins
- Calling if any issues or delays arise
- Standing behind their work with warranties
- Treating your artwork with visible care and respect
- Clean, organized workspace
Understanding Framing Costs
Price Factors
Custom framing costs vary based on:
Frame Size: Larger frames require more materials and labor. Costs typically increase exponentially with size – a 24x36 frame costs more than double a 16x20.
Frame Material and Style: Simple metal frames are most affordable. Wood frames vary from inexpensive pine to costly hardwoods. Ornate frames with gilding or special finishes command premium prices.
Matting: Single mats are least expensive. Double and triple mats (layers of different colored mats) add cost but create sophisticated presentations. Mat size significantly affects pricing – a 4-inch border uses much more material than a 2-inch border.
Glass Type: Regular glass is cheapest. Conservation clear glass (UV-filtering) costs more. Museum glass (UV-filtering and anti-reflective) is premium. Acrylic alternatives vary in price based on quality and features.
Mounting Method: Simple fitting is cheapest. Hinging with archival tape costs more. Conservation mounting with wheat paste and Japanese tissue is most expensive but best for valuable artwork.
Special Features: Spacers (keeping glass off artwork), float mounting (showing the full paper with deckled edges), shadow boxes, and specialty techniques increase costs.
Labor Intensity: Simple rectangular pieces are straightforward. Unusual shapes, multiple openings, complex mounting, or conservation work require more time and expertise.
Typical Price Ranges
These are approximate ranges and vary by location and provider:
Budget Framing ($50-150):
- Ready-made frame with basic mat
- Standard sizes only
- Regular glass
- Basic mounting
- Chain stores with coupons or big box retailers
Mid-Range Custom Framing ($150-400):
- Custom-sized frame
- Quality wood or metal frame
- Acid-free matting
- UV-protective glass options
- Proper archival mounting
- Chain store custom departments or independent shops
High-End Custom Framing ($400-1000+):
- Premium frame materials
- Multiple mats with sophisticated design
- Museum glass
- Conservation mounting
- Expert design consultation
- Independent shops or galleries
Conservation/Museum Framing ($1000+):
- Top-quality archival materials throughout
- Reversible mounting techniques
- Museum glass
- Extensive design and expertise
- Handling of valuable or delicate artwork
- Conservation specialists or museum framers
How to Save Money Without Compromising Quality
Timing: Shop sales at chain stores, particularly around holidays. Some shops offer slow-season discounts in winter months.
Volume Discounts: Framing multiple pieces often earns discounts. Ask about package pricing.
Simple Choices: Narrower mats use less material. Simple frame styles cost less than ornate options. Single mats instead of double or triple.
Standard Sizes: Whenever possible, trim artwork to fit standard frame sizes (8x10, 11x14, 16x20, etc.) to use less expensive ready-made frames for less valuable pieces.
Glass Choices: Use UV-protective glass only on pieces requiring preservation. Regular glass works fine for posters or prints you may replace eventually.
DIY Elements: Buy a ready-made frame for standard sizes and have only the mat custom cut, or buy pre-cut mats and install artwork yourself.
Relationship Building: Regular customers often receive preferential pricing or discounts at independent shops.
Prioritize: Invest in quality framing for valuable or sentimental pieces. Use budget options for temporary or easily replaced items.
The Custom Framing Process
Initial Consultation
When you visit a framer, bring your artwork and be prepared to discuss:
- Where the piece will hang (room style, wall color, lighting)
- Your design preferences (modern, traditional, bold, subtle)
- Your budget
- Timeline requirements
- Any special concerns (valuable item, UV exposure, etc.)
Design Selection
The framer will present options:
- Frame samples in various styles, materials, and finishes
- Mat color options (choose from hundreds of colors)
- Glass types (regular, UV-protective, museum glass, acrylic)
- Mounting methods
Don't rush this process. Most framers let you take samples to your home to see how they look with your decor and in your lighting. Take photos of different combinations to review later.
Pricing and Approval
You'll receive a detailed written estimate showing:
- Each component (frame, mat, glass, mounting, labor)
- Total cost
- Estimated completion date
- Any deposit required (typically 50%)
Review carefully and ask questions about anything unclear. This is your opportunity to adjust if the cost exceeds your budget.
Production
Professional framing typically takes 2-4 weeks, though timelines vary by:
- Shop workload
- Complexity of project
- Whether frame molding needs ordering
- Seasonal busy periods (holiday season is busiest)
- Rush orders (available for extra fees)
Reputable framers will call if unexpected issues arise or if completion will be delayed.
Pickup and Inspection
When collecting your framed piece:
- Inspect before leaving the shop
- Check corners and joinings for gaps
- Ensure glass is clean and scratch-free
- Verify mat is cut cleanly without overcuts visible
- Confirm artwork is centered and straight
- Check that backing is secure and includes hanging hardware
- Get care instructions
Any issues should be addressed immediately. Professional framers stand behind their work and will correct problems.
DIY Framing Resources
If you decide to frame artwork yourself, numerous resources can help:
Frame Supply Companies
American Frame: Comprehensive online supplier of frames, mats, glass, and framing supplies. You measure and order custom sizes, then assemble yourself. Good quality at reasonable prices.
Picture Frames Express: Similar to American Frame with competitive pricing and frequent sales.
Dick Blick: Art supply chain with extensive framing supply selection, both online and in stores.
Retail Stores
Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann: Large selection of ready-made frames and DIY framing supplies including pre-cut mats, frame kits, and glass.
IKEA: Affordable, modern-styled ready-made frames in standard sizes. Best for casual, temporary, or budget-conscious projects.
Target, Walmart: Basic ready-made frames at very affordable prices.
Tools and Supplies You'll Need
For DIY framing:
- Measuring tape and ruler
- Mat cutter (if cutting your own mats – requires practice)
- Glass cutter (if cutting glass – requires safety equipment and skill)
- ATG tape gun or framing tape
- Backing material
- Hanging hardware
- Clean, dust-free workspace
Learning Resources
YouTube has extensive framing tutorials covering everything from basic ready-made frame assembly to advanced mat cutting techniques. Many art supply stores offer framing workshops. Books on picture framing provide comprehensive guidance.
When DIY Isn't Worth It
Some projects require professional framing:
- Valuable original artwork
- Sentimental irreplaceable items
- Pieces requiring conservation techniques
- Unusual sizes or shapes
- Complex mounting requirements
- When you lack tools, space, or confidence
Questions to Ask Your Framer
Before committing to any framing service, ask:
- Are your mats acid-free and lignin-free? (Essential for preservation)
- What mounting method do you recommend and why? (Should be reversible for valuable pieces)
- Do you offer UV-protective glass? (Important for preventing fading)
- What's your estimated timeline? (Ensure it meets your needs)
- Do you provide a warranty on your work? (Professional framers should stand behind workmanship)
- Can I see examples of similar projects you've completed? (Assesses experience)
- What happens if I'm not satisfied with the results? (Understand their policies)
- Will you call if any issues arise during framing? (Communication is key)
- What care instructions should I follow? (Proper maintenance extends life)
- Do you offer any discounts for multiple pieces? (Can significantly reduce costs)
Special Situations
Framing for Gifts
When framing artwork as a gift, consider:
- Gift certificates allowing the recipient to choose their own framing
- Choosing neutral, versatile styles more likely to match various decors
- Including a gift receipt for easy exchanges
- Beautiful presentation – many framers offer gift wrapping
Reframing Existing Pieces
If updating old framing:
- Many framers offer discounts when you reuse existing frames
- Consider keeping vintage frames if they have value or character
- Ensure old mounting materials are removed, especially acidic backings that can damage artwork over time
- This is an opportunity to upgrade to conservation materials
Framing Very Large or Very Small Pieces
Oversized Art: Not all framers can handle extremely large pieces. Call ahead to confirm capabilities. Shipping oversized framed pieces is expensive and risky – local framing often makes more sense. Consider sectional framing for extremely large pieces.
Miniatures: Tiny pieces need special attention to proportions. Often benefit from larger mats to give them presence. Some framers specialize in miniature framing.
Emergency or Rush Framing
Most framers offer rush services for additional fees:
- Expect to pay 25-50% premium for rush orders
- Even rush jobs usually take several days minimum
- Call ahead – rush orders may not be possible during busy seasons
- Some shops keep stock frames that can be used for quick turnarounds
Environmental and Sustainability Considerations
Eco-Friendly Framing Options
Environmentally conscious framing choices include:
- Frames made from reclaimed or sustainably harvested wood
- Metal frames from recycled aluminum
- Some framers offer carbon-neutral shipping
- Choosing local framers reduces shipping environmental impact
- Quality framing that lasts reduces waste from frequent replacement
Recycling and Repurposing
- Many frame shops accept old frames for recycling or repurposing
- Consider donating usable old frames to schools or community art programs
- Glass and metal can often be recycled through municipal programs
- Wood frames can be repurposed for other projects
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing where to frame your artwork ultimately depends on balancing several factors:
For Valuable or Sentimental Pieces: Invest in professional custom framing from independent framers or conservation specialists. The expertise and quality materials protect your investment and ensure proper preservation.
For Standard Prints or Posters: Online services or chain stores with sale pricing offer good quality at reasonable costs. These provide customization without premium pricing.
For Budget Projects or Temporary Displays: Ready-made frames from retail stores or DIY assembly serve well for pieces you might change frequently or that don't require archival quality.
For Unique or Challenging Projects: Seek out independent framers with experience in your specific needs, whether that's textiles, memorabilia, oversized pieces, or unusual shapes.
For Convenience: Online services eliminate the need to visit shops and provide everything from home, though you sacrifice the hands-on consultation experience.
Final Thoughts
The right framing choice enhances your artwork, protects it for years to come, and creates a polished presentation that adds value to your space. Don't rush the decision – good framing is an investment that should be thoughtfully considered.
Start by honestly assessing what you're framing and why. A child's crayon drawing destined for the refrigerator next month needs different framing than a valuable print or an original watercolor. Match your framing choice to the piece's importance in your life and home.
Research your options in your area, read reviews, visit shops to get a feel for their professionalism and expertise, and don't hesitate to get quotes from multiple framers for expensive projects. Build relationships with framers you trust – they become valuable resources as you develop your art collection and framing needs over time.
Remember that proper framing does more than make artwork look beautiful – it protects your pieces from environmental damage, UV light degradation, and physical harm. Quality framing is an investment in preservation that pays dividends in protecting what you love for decades to come.
Whether you choose a local independent shop, a national chain, an online service, or tackle the project yourself, understanding your options empowers you to make informed decisions that result in beautifully framed artwork that brings you joy every time you see it.