Let’s talk turkey … and frame costs

Oct 25, 2022 | Picture Framing

Let’s talk turkey … and frame costs

Why does the frame cost more than the art?

American Gothic and frame costs

Sometimes custom framing a simple, inexpensive print or poster winds up costing more than the art itself. A basic reproduction of famous art like American Gothic can be purchased for a few dollars. Custom framing that same print can be many times the original cost of the art. If you didn’t spend that much for the art, why would you spend more on your framing? Here are some of the reasons it’s hard to compare the cost of art to the frame cost.

An inexpensive print or poster is going to run anywhere from $3 to $300, depending on the quality of the print. A poster is mass-produced and printed with lesser-quality inks on thin paper. A giclée is a fine-art print with a limited print run or printed on demand. Giclées typically are printed with higher quality inks on heavier paper and are sometimes signed by the artist. Neither of these are one-of-a-kind, rare, original, or custom works of art.

What affects the frame cost of a project custom-framed with wood moulding?

Material – it’s wood! A natural product takes time to grow and process. Hardwoods, softwoods, veneers, and pressed woods will all cost different amounts.
Location of origin – was the frame made in the USA, Italy or China?
Production – has the wood been hand carved or machine milled?
Frame Finish – has the frame been hand finished and/or gilded in gold leaf?
Quantity – this frame was ordered especially for you. Was the frame moulding purchased as length, already chopped to size, or pre-assembled?
Glazing – is there glass or plexi? A non-glare finish? UV protection?
Labor – this one-of-a-kind frame package was specifically designed for your art and put together just for you. That takes time and care!

Are you getting your money’s worth?

Framing protects your art from bugs, rips, and fading. A good framing display showcases your art so you can enjoy it daily. How can you really compare?

Additional Topics

Too good to be true?

When a big box frame shop advertises “50% + 20% off”, it makes you think you will get 70% off. Let’s say the original price of your project is $500. If it were 70% off, the final price would reflect a $350 savings. If it is 50% + 20% off, the final price would reflect a $300 savings. Not quite the deal you originally thought.

Here’s the kicker: big box shops will frequently mark their prices up specifically so they can mark them down and offer huge sales. Ask yourself what the true original price is before purchasing. Compare our prices and quality – you won’t be disappointed!

Fun Facts

Grant Wood, artist of American Gothic

Grant Wood was an American painter best known for his paintings depicting the rural American Midwest. American Gothic was painted with oils on wood in 1930. The painting won 3rd place in a contest hosted by the Art Institute of Chicago, who then purchased it. The iconic house is in Iowa and is referred to as ‘The Dibble House’. Wood intended the characters to be Father & Daughter; the man was actually modeled after Wood’s dentist and the woman is Wood’s sister. The general reception was very favorable, but Iowans felt it made them look dowdy. A Grant Wood landscape painting sold for $7 million in 2005, so you can imagine what American Gothic would fetch today.

When you bring your mementos to us you expect the best and that is exactly what you will get from start to finish. We organize, design, and create complex framing projects from your vacation memory treasures. From creative ideas to hanging hardware, we provide innovative design and quality workmanship so you can enjoy your memories for years.

How can that be framed?

Aug 30, 2022 | Picture Framing

How can that be framed?

how can that be framed Have you seen large 3D objects framed and wondered, “How in the world can that be framed?” Bulky or large items like musical instruments, sports equipment, baby shoes, or wedding dresses don’t fit into the familiar 2D art framing plan. Here’s the beauty of custom framing – anything can be framed.

Three-dimensional objects are typically framed in what is called a shadowbox, which is a case with a protective transparent front used for displaying objects. Simple enough, but how is the framing process actually done? Let’s break down a few things that make framing shadowboxes unique.

The substrate

We start with the substrate, an underlying layer that provides strength and a surface to securely mount the items that are being framed. Consider it the backbone of the shadowbox to which the frame will be attached. Substrates can be many different products including foam core, Masonite, or plywood.

Substrates typically aren’t very attractive, which is why a background mat or fabric covers it. These come in a variety of colors and textures to match the items being framed. Matting or fabric can also line the sides of the box for a seamless look – you wouldn’t want to stare at the bare inside of a frame moulding, so we continue the background on all four inner sides.

Mounting items to the substrate

Items are mounted securely to the substrate or mat. This process could involve various techniques including sewing, tapes, screws, Mylar strips, acrylic fasteners, or a variety of custom-built mounts to name a few. The size, bulk and dimension of the object will determine the mounting method. Conservation materials and methods are used so your items will stay in their original condition. To mount this signed guitar, for example, a custom-made L-shaped acrylic piece was screwed into the substrate, then screwed into the part of the guitar that normally holds the strap, without harming the value of the piece.

To mount this signed guitar, for example, a custom-made L-shaped acrylic piece was screwed into the substrate, then screwed into the part of the guitar that normally holds the strap, without harming the value of the piece.

Framing the shadowbox

The ideal choice for a shadowbox frame is one moulding deep enough to accommodate the objects, such as the one shown here. It is nearly 3” deep! But frames of that depth aren’t always easy to find; sometimes it is necessary to stack multiple frames together to create one deep enough. With creative thinking, there is always a solution.

Let’s take a closer look at four framed shadowbox projects:

When you possess a priceless signed guitar, you don’t play it – you frame it! A sand-colored fabric mat was chosen to pay homage to where the Beach Boys are from – Southern California. A plaque was added to mimic the Beach Boys logo and give visual weight to the look.

a signed beach boys guitar that's been framed

This ‘fiddle’ from the 1870s is truly a treasure. A blue fabric mat was used to replicate the felt the case was lined in. Everything that was found in the violin case was added as well as a picture of the owner. The violin is supported by acrylic mounts.

This tommy gun is a one of several replicas made for the 2009 movie Public Enemies. The drum was removed from the body of the gun so the finished product would not be prohibitively large.

Forget bronzing baby shoes – frame them! In the first example, a form was built to cradle the shape of the shoes. Fabric was used over the form to create a ‘blanket’ effect. In the second, stacked moulding provides the depth required for the piece.

Anything can be framed! Shadowboxes make great Christmas gifts – bring your special items in today.
Let us show you what we can do!

How many items can you put in a shadowbox?

As many as you want! But don’t go too crazy – you want just enough items to tell the story. Remember, the more items, the bigger (and heavier) the box. For larger items like the guitar or violin, you will have a lot of negative space in which you can add supporting items … but don’t add items just because you have the space. Sometimes one item says it all!

Additional Topics

Have you tried acrylic for framed pieces?

Acrylic glazing is available with the same UV protection as glass to prevent fading. Most shadowboxes are larger and heavier than typical art being framed, so you may consider using acrylic glazing rather than glass for these two reasons:

Acrylic is half the weight of glass. Because shadowboxes can be quite large, glazing weight could make a huge difference.
Acrylic is shatter resistant – if it does break, it is less likely to damage the art (or you)!

← Frame styles: Why did we choose these? Let's talk turkey ... and frame costs →

Frame styles: Why did we choose these?

Aug 3, 2022 | Picture Framing

Frame styles: Why did we choose these?

Finding the frame styles you’ll love forever

We know it can be a bit overwhelming when you walk into our shop and see a wall filled with hundreds of frame styles and corner samples. Our designers are here to help de-mystify the design process, and show you some guidelines that will place the perfect frame on your art.

Frame styles that go with the flow

A modern take on a traditional frame color choice! There are a lot of gold accents in this abstract landscape painting, and the gold frame complements them without taking away from the focal point. The textural paint is matched in the wavy frame pattern.

traditional frame styles with gold frame and oil painting

Embrace the culture

Sometimes it is best to honor the feel of the region/country where the art came from — you can do this with complementary frame styles. This hand-embroidered silk art from Asia looks natural in a bamboo frame. Texture and tone complement the stitching while not overpowering this gentle piece.

Bamboo frame styles complement an Asian painting

Frame styles that are similar but different

This rustic birch tree image is framed in a wood moulding that mimics the texture of the trees. A white frame could have been chosen because birch trees have white bark; instead, the colorful frame creates a warm feeling due to the rust-colored accents in the art.

traditional frame styles with wood and a tree print

traditional frame styles and details of inner frame moulding

Have fun with frame styles

You can’t deny how fun this art is! It needs a frame that can give it a musical vibe, one with movement. This frame design has a rhythmic element reminiscent of a drumbeat or piano keys. The blue tone of both artwork and frame encourages the viewer to relax and feel the chill energy.

contemporary frame styles with mic-century blue print

Do you have artwork that you’d like to frame, but are unsure of what kind of frame to choose? We can help!

Please note: pictured frame styles are subject to availability. These examples serve as a visual on how to think of frames working with art. But we have hundreds of different frame styles at our store and we are confident that you will find one that suits you.

Additional topics

Art & design consultations

Our designers can guide you toward that perfect frame for your art. We offer in-home consultations, or you can stop in the shop at your convenience.

Did you know?

August is National Eye Exam month. Healthy eyes make looking at your framed art much more enjoyable.

← Preserving a vacation memory in style How can that be framed? →

Preserving a vacation memory in style

Jul 3, 2022 | Family Framing, Picture Framing

Preserving a vacation memory in style

Using a shadowbox to preserve a fun vacation memory

A shadowbox is sometimes called a memory box for a reason. They are the perfect way to showcase special objects and photos that celebrate a vacation memory, family fun, achievements, events, or just the special people in our lives. And a vacation memory is the perfect place to start when creating a shadowbox. Relive those wonderful memories every day by putting them on display. We are experts in creating artistic presentations from your memories. All you need to do is bring them to us and we will create a one-of-a-kind framed shadowbox for you.

Here are the four steps to create a to turn your vacation memory into a fun project.

STEP 1:

Choose a vacation memory, such as the Caribbean cruise you went on last summer.

STEP 2:

Gather all the mementos and souvenirs that relate to your special memory — photos, tickets, clothing, mementos, medals, coins, maps, certificates… the more the better. We can curate while we design the project.

STEP 3:

Bring all of it to us. We will help you arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing way. Once we narrow down your items and layout, we can help you pick a suitable mat and frame.

STEP 4:

We’ll work our framing magic and present you with a framed memory to last a lifetime! Now it’s ready to hang so everyone can relive that magical Caribbean cruise with you.

Let’s take a closer look at our vacation memory project:

Vacation memory and Jayco t-shirt with parrot

A T-shirt form was cut from foamboard/matboard to hold the shirt taut and in place.

Maps were scanned and printed at a size that fits the design.

Individual mats were cut to mimic a framed look for the photos.

foreign coins and drink bottles preserved in frame

A sand-colored linen fabric was chosen for the background. At the bottom a framed “beach” was added, built up with a spray foam and cut to accommodate items.

In another corner we added some coins from the country for your vacation memory, along with some local wine corks.

When you bring your mementos to us you expect the best and that is exactly what you will get from start to finish. We organize, design, and create complex framing projects from your vacation memory treasures. From creative ideas to hanging hardware, we provide innovative design and quality workmanship so you can enjoy your memories for years.

Vintage or heritage?

Jun 27, 2022 | Picture Framing

Vintage or heritage?

What’s the difference?

Vintage or heritage? These two terms are frequently used interchangeably, but there a difference in their definitions. As with many words there can be multiple meanings, especially when you consider how they are used and in what context.

In custom framing, heritage generally refers to family history or genealogy, something that is passed down from previous generations, and vintage refers to something that basically means old or antique, something from a previous time.

Heritage

Heritage involves something that is handed down’from the past, such as a sentimental heirloom, tradition, or culture. It evokes a personal tie with history. Heritage can also be an item or a place that brings on a nostalgic feeling of tradition (like a portrait of your great-great-grandmother) or has historical significance (like a World Heritage Site).

Vintage

Vintage is sometimes synonymous with ‘old’ but will frequently be in reference to a specific period of time. One of the most used definitions of vintage is when talking about wine — vintage is the year in which the grapes were harvested. You can own a vintage 60’s outfit or a vintage car from the 30s, or a vintage art deco frame … the importance is more about the era it came from and not the personal connection.

Is it either/or, or can something be both vintage and veritage? Yes! Look at these examples. We think any picture, handwritten note, or cooking tool handed down through the generations is heritage and can be considered heirlooms… but these items are also old and hearken back to a specific time… so they are vintage as well. Vintage or heritage — you make the call.

vintage or heritage: image of various frames

This is just a sampling of the huge selection of frames possible for heritage or vintage pieces. Let us help you find the perfect one.

Summer décor refresh

Is your home ready for summer visitors? Give your home a fresh look you are proud to show off. We can help you choose art and then frame it and install it. Stop in, give us a call, or email us to learn more.

are your family photos damages? We can help

Photo restoration & printing

We all have old pictures that look faded and torn. Many fingers have touched them, or tape and thumbtacks have compromised the quality. Not to worry — we can digitally fix that for you. Ask us how.

We always use archival materials

Because we want your art or heirlooms to survive for a lifetime without change of color, damage from glues, or out-gassing from materials that are not acid-free, we use the very best materials for your projects. We’re happy to tell you all about it.

Go for a gold frame

May 2, 2022 | Picture Framing

Go for a gold frame

… and get the best!

“The Gold Standard” is the example by which everything else is measured: it’s the best. When you see a gold frame on an art masterpiece, you might think it looks timeless, luxurious, and valuable. How can you bring that quality look and feel into your home? Here are a few examples of using gold in your art and framing.

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Show off your artwork with a gold frame

brown and gold frames around the kiss print

You most likely have seen Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss, in which the use of gold-leaf is prominent. Klimt was heavily influenced by Byzantine mosaics during his Golden Period. A gold frame would be too much for this piece but the small gold accent works perfectly.

These gold collector medallions were meant to be shown off. Because the medallions are small, we united them with a creative mat design and used a gold frame to balance the look.

The use of gold brings this artwork to life and enhances the detail. Because we didn’t want to overpower the art, a contrasting frame in a dark color was used instead of a gold frame.

This is an engraving made on a piece of gold metal plate. It is a beautiful and unusual piece of art that belongs in a frame to protect it from bending and other damage that can happen to a soft metal.

Make an impression with a gold frame

When a piece of art is this small (6×6”), it needs a little help from a mat so that it doesn’t get neglected. The art is modern and high contrast, so it is best to keep the surrounding elements the same. A simple black mat and a sleek gold frame does the trick.

Veterans, thank you for your service. What a great way to honor your favorite veteran by framing their important military papers in a gold frame. Veterans Day is everyday!

Art isn’t always flat. This beautiful three-dimensional sculpture is surrounded by an equally beautiful gold frame, creating a show stopper.

Memories precious as gold deserve a gold frame

gold frames around photo of mother with bracelet

Maya Angelou said, “To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.”

Show the mothers in your life how much you care. Frame a cherished memento for her. Mother’s Day is May 8th this year!

A wedding lasts only moments but your love is unending. Frame your cherished wedding day memory in an elegant gold frame.

gold frames around graduation memorabilia

A diploma is more than just a piece of paper; it represents years of hard work and deserves a frame worthy of the effort. Frame those gold tassels!

Military service is honorable and steeped in tradition. Tasteful use of a gold frame can exemplify that service in style.

The gold medal is the goal of the Olympics. If you were lucky enough to attend an Olympics event, go for a gold frame when framing your memories!

Add a touch of gold with mats and fillets

Use gold mats when you want to add a luxurious touch or sparkle. A little goes a long way – gold can be subtle and still get it’s point across.

This wedding invitation is subtle yet striking. The muted golds and silvers are soft and opulent without being gaudy. A soft gold frames complements this perfectly.

brown and gold frames around ship painting

Do you notice that small inner gold frame? That’s a fillet, (pronounced ‘fill-it’) and it can provide a finishing touch to your art. Notice how your eye is drawn to the focal point of the art?

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