CHICAGO CUSTOM FRAMING COST
You have questions — We have answers.
You have questions — We have answers.
What does it cost for a custom frame?
Well it depends - There are many variables that need to be considered when we talk about a custom frame and the price point. Let's break them all down real quick.
Frame Size
Frame Material
Glass/Acrylic
Matting & Mounting
Design & Craftsmanship
Frame Size
The frame size will dictate the amount of material needed as well as the complexity of the job. These are two of the most important factors when it comes to custom frames. Framing something small is typically easier than making a frame for a piece that is five feet tall.
Frame Material | Type Of Wood
Every wood comes at a different price. The most expensive wood being African Blackwood, Pink Ivory, and Ebony. Walnut is an example of higher-mid range. Pine and Poplar are amongst the least expensive woods for framing. So the final price of the custom frame will depend on what type of wood you want and how you want the finished product to look.
Glass or Acrylic?
Glass will always be more expensive than plastic. Glass is made from natural minerals (sand, soda ash, limestone) which requires high-temperature processing (more energy intensive). Whereas plastic is derived normally from petrolium-based materials which makes it relatively cheaper.
Matting and Mounting
If you prefer to have matting involved in your framing it will cost more. If the artwork or whatever it is you're framing requires special mounting to keep it secured in the frame - it will cost more. The complexity of the job and the amount of excess materials used will tack on a substantial amount.
Design & Craftsmanship
The beauty of custom framing is it's an art form in and of itself. The frame can act as an extension of the artwork it houses. Or it can just be a simple frame to protect whatever it houses from aging, dust, and sunlight. You get to decide how you want the frame to be, you get to be a part of the design and the process to find the perfect fit for your home.
Final Thoughts
Every project is different and that's why we love custom framing. You get to add a little bit of self expression in each frame by making all of these choices. Custom framing can be affordable depending on what you want to get out of it. Bottom line is if you truly cherish your photos of family & friends, your artwork, posters, whatever it may be—then you should be considering getting them framed.