Save Money on Framing Art

How to Find Affordable Custom Framing and Ready Made Picture Frames

Jun 4, 2009

Custom frame mouldings often cost more than the art they hold. Use these tips to decorate walls less expensively with framed prints, posters, paintings and family photos.

Average costs for picture framing are hard to pinpoint, because many factors – quality of materials used, size and type of artwork being framed, and location – can influence price. One trade survey summary indicates that, in 2002, the average cost of a custom framing order ranged from $173 - $220. Understanding the different custom framing options available can help when looking for inexpensive frames.

Standard Size Frames and Prints Cost Less

The most expensive part of a custom framing order is almost always the frame. So one of the best ways to save money is to use a standard size picture frame whenever possible. Purchasing or creating art that is a standard size, on paper or canvas, can save hundreds of dollars in framing costs. A wide range of standard frame sizes and styles are available. Even if art is an odd size, a custom mat can often be used with a standard frame. And, if a standard size just will not do, a wood or metal frame kit may work.

Some prints and posters do require custom frames, especially larger ones. To keep this cost down, avoid buying unframed art or posters that are over 32'" x 40". Even long, narrow artwork over 40" long can be much more expensive to frame than a piece that measures 32" x 40", because oversize mat board, glass and mounting board can cost twice as much as standard materials. Custom frames, however, are priced by the linear foot, so framing an oversize painting or canvas print without glass will not be as costly as framing a large poster or matted art print.

Do-It-Yourself Framing

Do-It-Yourselfers can frame their own artwork in custom or standard-size frames to save time and money. Some frame shops will allow customers to frame their own work in the store, with employees' help. In other shops, framers can help customers find the right materials and tools to do picture framing at home: Below are examples of when DIY picture framing may be a good idea:

Knowing when to let the professionals handle the picture framing can also save time, money and, sometimes, prevent frustration or even injury. A trip back to the store to replace a sheet of broken glass or, worse, to the hospital for stitches, will surely outweigh any potential savings on framing installation fees. Also, having valuable art or sentimental items framed properly the first time is less expensive than paying to replace damaged frames or art. For the following items, consulting a professional picture framer is probably best:

Find the Best Price on Frames

Prices for frames and materials can vary widely; two similar frame mouldings from different manufacturers may have very different prices. So researching different framing options, both locally and on the Internet, can yield big savings. When getting estimates from frame shops, bringing artwork along is the best way to get an accurate quote. Students, professional artists and senior citizens should also ask about any reward programs and discounts.

Whether having framing done by a professional or taking the do-it-yourself route, it pays to be patient and comparison shop for the best deals. Remembering these money-saving strategies: buying standard size frames, choosing the right framing materials, and learning how and when to attempt DIY picture framing can help make decorating with framed art more affordable.

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The copyright of the article Save Money on Framing Art in Interior Decorating is owned by Alison Fletcher. Permission to republish Save Money on Framing Art in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.