Custom Framing

Custom picture framing is important because it protects, enhances, and preserves the artwork or object in a way that off-the-shelf frames rarely can. Here are the key reasons:

1. Protection & Preservation

  • UV-protective glass: Prevents fading and discoloration from sunlight and indoor lighting.

  • Acid-free materials: Prevent yellowing, brittleness, or long-term damage to photos, art, textiles, and memorabilia.

  • Proper mounting techniques: Ensure the artwork isn’t bent, glued incorrectly, or stressed over time.

2. Perfect Fit for Any Item

  • Custom framing accommodates non-standard sizes, irregular shapes, and unique items—such as jerseys, medals, puzzles, canvases, and heirlooms—giving each piece a precise fit.

3. Enhances Aesthetics

  • Frame style, mat color, and layout are chosen to complement the artwork, not distract from it.

  • Custom framing helps the piece stand out and supports the style of your home or office décor.

4. Increases Longevity

  • High-quality materials and craftsmanship mean the piece will last decades, not just a few years.

  • Prevents warping, moisture damage, and environmental wear.

5. Adds Value

  • Professionally framed items typically look more polished and can increase the perceived (and sometimes actual) value of the piece—especially for limited editions, original art, and collectibles.

6. Personalization & Storytelling

  • You can choose designs that reflect your personality or the significance of the item—great for sentimental pieces like family photos, diplomas, or travel souvenirs.

7. Professional Techniques & Attention to Detail

  • Framers understand how different materials behave over time and use the right techniques to ensure safety, stability, and beauty.

How to Choose the Right Frame

1. Match the Frame to the Artwork, Not the Room First

While décor matters, your primary goal is to complement the art or photo itself.

  • Bold, colorful art → Neutral or simple frame

  • Minimalist or monochrome art → Sleek, modern frame

  • Vintage photos or classic paintings → Ornate or traditional frame

    2. Pick the Right Frame Material

    Wood Frames

    • Warm, classic, durable

    • Great for paintings, portraits, heirlooms

    Metal Frames

    • Sleek, modern, lightweight

    • Awesome for posters, contemporary art, certificates

    Composite / Specialty Frames

    • Budget-friendly or used for very large pieces

    Tip: Wood = character; metal = clean + modern.

    3. Consider Frame Color

    Use color to enhance, not overpower.

    • Black: Timeless, works with almost anything

    • White: Minimal, fresh, great for modern prints

    • Natural wood: Warm and organic

    • Metallics: Elegant or contemporary

    Rule of thumb:
    ➡️ If the art is busy → choose a simpler color
    ➡️ If the art is simple → try a richer tone or texture

4. Add Matting (Optional but Powerful)

Matting provides space between the artwork and frame, making the piece feel larger and more refined.

Benefits:

  • Prevents artwork from touching the glass

  • Adds visual focus

  • Creates a gallery-style look

Mat Colors:

  • Neutral mats (white, cream, grey) are safest and most popular

  • Colored mats can work if they pick up a subtle color from the art

5. Choose the Right Glass or Acrylic

This affects both protection and appearance.

Glass Options

  • Standard glass: Good for low-budget, low-light areas

  • UV-protective glass: Prevents fading—best for valuable pieces

  • Non-glare / museum glass: Reduces reflections; premium choice

Acrylic (Plexiglass)

  • Lightweight, shatter-resistant

  • Great for large frames or high-traffic areas

6. Scale the Frame to the Artwork

  • Small art → thin or medium frame

  • Large art → thicker, more substantial frame

  • Very delicate art → narrow frame to avoid overpowering

  • Bold art → chunky frame adds balance

Components Of A Frame

When it comes to custom picture framing, a few key materials make the biggest difference in how well your artwork is protected and how good it looks. Here’s a clear breakdown of the materials that matter most—and why.

1. The Frame Moulding

This is the physical frame that surrounds your art.

  • Affects the overall look (modern, classic, rustic, refined)

  • Provides structural support for the artwork

Best options

  • Solid Wood – long-lasting, elegant, high-quality

  • Metal (aluminum) – modern, very durable, great for posters & certificates

  • Engineered materials – economical but less durable long-term

2. Matting (Mat Board)

The border around your art that provides visual space and prevents the artwork from touching the glass.

  • Prevents moisture transfer and damage

  • Enhances presentation

  • Gives breathing room to delicate artwork

Best options

  • Acid-free (conservation) mats – ideal for photos, prints, keepsakes

  • Museum-grade 100% cotton rag mats – top choice for heirlooms & valuable art

Avoid: Cheap cardboard mats—they cause yellowing and deterioration over time.

3. Backing Board

The layer behind your artwork that keeps it flat and protected.

  • Prevents warping

  • Shields from humidity and dust

  • Integral to archival preservation

Best options

  • Acid-free foam core – stable, lightweight, archival

  • Archival-grade backing boards – for long-term preservation or valuable pieces

Avoid: Regular cardboard or chipboard, which emits acids and damages artwork..

4. Glazing (Glass or Acrylic)

This is the transparent protective layer over your artwork.

  • Protects from dust, UV rays, and physical damage

  • Affects visibility and clarity

  • Impacts weight, safety, and long-term preservation

5. Mounting Materials

These are what physically hold the artwork in place.

  • Incorrect mounting can cause buckling, tearing, or permanent damage.

Best options

  • Hinged, archival mounting (for photos, prints, watercolor paper)

  • Mylar corners (hold edges without adhesive)

  • Pressure-sensitive archival tapes

  • Stitching or pinning (for textiles or jerseys)

Avoid: Glue, spray adhesive, or tape directly on the artwork.

6. Sealants & Finishing Materials

These protect the artwork from environmental changes.

  • Keeps dust, insects, and moisture out of the frame

  • Ensures longevity and frame stability

Best options

  • Dust covers (kraft or archival paper)

  • Framing-grade sealing tapes

  • Rubber or felt bumpers on the bottom corners

Summary: The Materials That Matter MOST

If you remember just three things, remember this:

✅ Acid-free materials (matting + backing)

✅ UV-protective glazing

✅ Secure, archival mounting

These are the core elements that prevent damage and preserve your artwork for decades.