FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HAVE SOMETHING FRAMED?
Custom Picture Framing at The Custom Framers takes anywhere from 1-14 days, with most orders being completed in about 7 days.  Time depends on the Frame, Mat, and complexity of the project.  If the materials you select are in our inventory, we can do the job much faster.  In the case that you have a special event and would like something custom framed faster, we will always try to accommodate you.  The great thing about using us is that we will work with you to meet your timeline.

WHEN I DROP SOMETHING OFF TO BE FRAMED, WHERE IS IT ACTUALLY FRAMED?
Being a local, family owned and operated company, all readymade and custom picture framing is done on site.  All the materials that are necessary to complete your order are ordered and then delivered to our location for fabrication.

HOW DO I FIND THE RIGHT FRAME AND MAT SIZE FOR MY ART?
When thinking about frame and mat size, it's all determined by your art and your individual tastes.  When custom framing, the frame and mat dimensions can be any size in order to make the finished piece look aesthetically pleasing. Mat borders can be designed symmetrically in proportion to the art size, offset for a unique look, or weighted for some emphasis. We can help show you different matting border styles, and select an attractive mat width for your framing project.  If your custom framing, make it look custom!

In the case that the frame size is fixed, as with a repurposed frame, or frames that you have previously purchased, mat dimensions usually have to be tailored to take up the difference between the image size and the frame size. Please note that this often results in a mat border that is slightly different between the top, bottom, and the sides. In order to prevent this, it is sometimes possible to crop in, or cover a portion of the image to make the dimensions appear a bit more symmetrical.

Most mat borders whether custom or readymade, range in the 1.5 - 4 inch range, although the size of the art, the width of the frame, and the overall dimensions of the hanging area can all influence this width. The best way to get design advice that is tailored to your specific framing project is to come in and visit us.  We can help inform you, and create the perfect mat combination and size for your frame.

HOW DO I PICK THE RIGHT FRAME AND MAT COMBINATION FOR ARTWORK OR MEMORABILIA?
The first thing you will want to do is bring your artwork or memorabilia into one of our stores to discuss your framing tastes and needs with us. With over 1,800 custom frame choices, and 500 mats of various colors and textures, the possibilities are endless. However, the best framing designs are created based on a conversation about your tastes, the intended hanging location, and what it is that you’re having framed.  From here, we will be able to make sure your picture framing is customized for your piece in regards to style, aesthetics, and budget. We offer free, no obligation design consultation and quotes.

WHAT KIND OF MAT SHOULD I USE TO COLLECT SIGNATURES AT A WEDDING?
When it comes to signature mats, you want to select one that is both smooth on the surface, and archivally made up on the inside. Being such an importance piece of memorabilia from your event, you will want clear signatures on a smooth surface, and conservation board to ensure that everything lasts a lifetime. Over time, direct and non-direct UV light fades photos, regular grade paper mats, and ink. That's why it's very important to pick an archival mat. Using the proper mats will help resist fading, yellowing, and deterioration of the ink on the mats.

MY PICTURES HAVE ALL BEEN FRAMED WITH REGULAR GLASS. WHAT TYPE OF GLASS WOULD YOU SUGGEST TO REDUCE THE GLARE?
When it comes to glare reducing picture frame glass, there are two types: Reflection Control (Non-Glare) glass, and Museum glass.  Each type has a different appearance and different features.

Premium Reflection Control glass enhances the beauty of artwork with an etched matte-like finish that scatters light to minimize unwanted glare.  It is available in 46% or 99% UV protection.

Museum glass is a nearly invisible anti-reflective glass with conservation grade UV Protection.   Along with its nearly invisible finish, it effectively blocks up to 99% of harmful indoor and outdoor UV light rays.  This glass is clear but non-reflective.  To accomplish this, it has a coating that requires special care when cleaning.  This is the most expensive choice, but not always the best depending on the application.

ISN’T REGULAR GLASS GOOD ENOUGH TO USE FOR MY PICTURE?
It depends.  If you have an item of little or no monetary value and is easily replaced when it fades, then clear glass is fine.  The optimum protection for any framed piece is glazing that provides protection from harmful ultra violet light rays that help destroy paper, paint, fabric, etc.  We offer 8 glazing choices. From regular to conservation grade, all the way to museum glass and acrylic, each glass serves its own purpose and has a different cost. 

HOW DO I CONSERVE MY ITEM IN A FRAME SO THAT IT WILL NOT DETERIORATE OVER TIME?
In regards to conservation framing, the glass, mats, and backing all have the most impact on the conservation of the item being framed. When a picture frame is completely assembled all of the components complement each other. It all starts with the glazing (glass or acrylic), which must be UV-protective to help filter out ultraviolet light. Furthermore, the matting and backing must be preservation grade, meaning acid free. Finally, the package must be sealed, usually with paper backing to protect from dust and insects. This way, your artwork or memorabilia are protected from both the front and the back from dangerous elements such as UV light, acid, and the elements.

WHAT DETERMINES THE COST OF CUSTOM FRAMING?
When you have something custom framed, you are most likely purchasing multiple framing components, on top of work behind the scenes, such as assembly.

Major components of a custom framing project may include the frame, mats, glass, mounting, assembly, and any other charges necessary to custom fabricate your project. Each of these components is priced individually. When you add up all the components, this helps arrive at the final price. Here is some more specific information about how some of the main components are priced:

The Frame: Custom picture frames are priced by the foot. Depending on the size of your art either by itself or after any matting, combine with the width of the custom frame moulding helps determine the footage necessary. The cost per foot multiplied by footage required helps derive the final price. For Example, an 8 x 10 photo would call for roughly 4 – 5 feet of moulding.

Matting: Matting is priced by two variables: (1) the type and (2) the size.  Matboard comes in many different styles, colors, textures and core material.  From regular paper grade, to archival, textured, suede, or linen, in a variety of colors.   Each type of board has a different cost.  Plain paper mats, with the heat & humidity in the environment, deteriorate due to the acids they produce; this also acid-burns the art they are sitting on top of.  (The old wooden shingle backing on antique prints acidifies so badly that sometimes it will eat through the picture itself, or through the backing on old mirrors.)  At The Custom Framers, we use only acid free mat board.  We feel that the small difference in the cost of these quality mats is well worth the difference in the quality.  We feel that your projects are worth the difference.  Proper matting and framing will conserve or preserve your projects for many years to come.

Glazing: Glass/ acrylic is priced by two variables:  the type and the size.  We offer 11 different glazing choices. From regular to conservation grade, all the way to museum glass and acrylic, each glass serves its own purpose and has a different cost. 

Mounting / Backing: Mounting or backing is determined solely by what you are having framed. Rolled posters or prints for example, usually need to be dry-mounted in order to prevent your print from waving in the frame. On the other hand, valuable paintings and documents are usually hinged to a mat or acid free backboard to ensure that it can be removed from the frame intact if need be.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO FRAME SOMETHING?
There are many components that affect the pricing. It all starts with what you are having framed. From the size of the art or item, to the number and type of mats, the type of glass, mounting method necessary, and the moulding used on the frame.  We will help educate you about the products/methods available and also work to find a framing solution that both meets your needs and your budget.
The best way to get a good idea on the cost of framing your specific art or item is to bring it in.  The design process is fun, free, and quotes are given with no obligation!

DO YOU SELL WHOLESALE FRAMES?
No.  We make frames for specific projects that customers bring in for custom framing. Wholesale frame suppliers abound on the internet.  We do however, offer quantity pricing and work with local artists and photographers.

MY FRAME IS DAMAGED.  CAN IT BE REPAIRED?
The answer to this question can be very tricky, as there are so many types of frames and finishes.  Bring us the frame and let us see what we can do.  We routinely repair frames and replace glazing (glass).  Sometimes, it’s best to be proactive, especially in the case of children or cats.  It’s easy to replace your glass with professional quality acrylic before an accident occurs.  This is much easier and safer than dealing with shattered glass around children and pets.  Frames are made from a variety of materials, from metal to wood, and from MDF to poly.  With over 25 years of woodworking experience, we can generally repair your frame.     Quotes and advice are given free with no obligation.