What to Look for in a Custom Picture Framer
When deciding to have something custom framed, people are often concerned about making the right decisions when it comes to price, conservation options, and the final appearance of the piece. When you are making an investment in framing for your valuable art these are all very important considerations.
The simple solution to all of these issues is to choose an independent framer who has been in the field long enough to have an extensive knowledge base of custom framing. The framer should also be able to develop a design that will enhance your artwork not overpower it or underwhelm it.
If your main concern is cost, 60% off of an over-inflated price is not going to save you money. Be sure that when you are looking at price to compare apples to apples. If cost is your primary or only consideration let your framer know this. They will then be able to put together a less expensive quality framing package for you. A good framer will also go over your options and let you know if you should consider a more archival alternative.
As for conservation concerns, you need someone with experience to give you the best options for mounting and displaying your art. Insufficient acid and ultraviolet protection can end up damaging your artwork. In the case of valuable pieces this type of damage is a significant factor in any assessment of worth. A good framer can go over the many different options when it comes to mounting and protecting your art.
When it comes to the final appearance of your piece, the more choices that you have the more likely you will be able to design a good unified look for your art. There are thousands of selections when it comes to frames and mats. There are also several different types of glass. A good framer will be able to guide you through all of these choices without compromising your vision of what the final piece should look like.
In all of these cases an independent local framer is going to be your best bet. Avoid the craft and fabric stores. An independent framer almost always has better prices, more experience and a better selection of framing options.
If you have any questions concerning your framing needs please feel free to contact me. Bring any of your past or current framing projects to me for a free comparison of what pricing, conservation and esthetic options could be offered.
Additional posts by Ed Gowda
- Investing in Custom Framing, 08 Oct 2010 in Home & Garden
- The Importance of Conservation Framing, 10 Aug 2010 in Home & Garden
Mr. Gowda is absolutely right. For years, consumers have been getting scammed by phony sales being advertised by craft store chains. Promises of 50%-off and even 70%-off sales that expire on Saturday are nothing more than deceptive and false claims. These “sale prices” are simply inflated regular prices – the same ones you’ll pay every week. Not only won’t you save money, but you’ll feel like a sucker and a victim when you leave with an outrageous bill and a sales pitch from a untrained, commission sales person with false credentials.
Fortunately, the consumer is getting wiser. Don’t be a sucker. Report sham sales to your state’s Consumer Protection Department.
This is a well-written article, and as a custom framer, I appreciate it. It’s worth taking time to find exactly what you want, and this holds especially true with picture framing. Every framer I know is happy to show people mat and frame designs on their art, and to give an exact price quote, with no obligation whatsoever. There are so many good framing designers out there, and many of the independent shops use materials that are far better suited to protecting your artwork. And any good framer is going to make sure you know about these protective materials.
Custom Framing is not cheap, nor is custom tailoring. Think about it–”custom” is the buzzword here. Custom framers make the frame to suit your artwork, no matter the size or the complexity. That is not to say we–most of us!–”make” the actual frame! Most of us buy pre-made moulding in a specific finish in 9-10 foot lengths and cut and join that moulding for you. Hand finishers are out there, if you want it, but you will pay even more for that kind of service.
But it is ALL worth it! If you have a piece of artwork, an image that you feel you can’t live without, a properly designed–by someone who knows what they are doing!–custom framing will only enhance that art for your enjoyment for the rest of your life! Most custom framers don’t deal in “throw away” or “sofa” art. That is a different segment of the framing market.
Custom framers deal in price, but most of all we deal in “trust.” Trust us to know what we are doing–even the new shops, if they have the background–because we want to have your art look the best it can!
At least, that is MY goal!
This article succinctly states why people should use an independent custom framer. Trust your art (and I include needlework, memorabilia and old family treasures in this category) to someone who knows what they are doing. Beware someone who offers you a price “too good to be true” because it is.
Very good article. Yes indeed, buyers do need to beware and not fall for those inflated %OFF phoney sales. Please do check with your Local Independent Framing Expert and you will find that you will almost certainly get a better job for the same or less.
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