Finding your custom framer is worth paying attention to. Over the years of talking to framers and framing customers, we have realized that most people draw a blank when it comes to custom framing. And, while most people don’t know much about it, making the right decision also involves a lot of choices. So, first time customers might end up feeling intimidated. However, we have also found out that finding your perfect custom framer can result in interior decisions that are unmatched by any basic interior store.
To make the process a little easier, we have outlined a few of the things that we consider most important when looking for a custom framer. Not all of them are crucial details, but they are decisions worth pondering before committing to a complex framing job.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CUSTOM FRAMING
WHERE IS THE CUSTOM FRAMER
Location is in no way the only thing that you should consider, but it can make the framing process easier – especially if you’re planning to make more than one appointment with your local framer. Often artworks are forgotten in drawers just because their owners can’t get themselves to travel the long distances to framing salons. Remember that you might have a local framer that really knows the craft and can do wonders for your art!
CHOICE OF MATERIALS
When doing anything custom, you expect a variety of choices. However, walls covered in molding samples that are no longer sold might make this choice an illusion. Ask your potential framer about the availability of the material they recommend, and you are considering. The best frame shops will offer a good array of materials – including not only in color and texture but also in preservation qualities.
DOES THE FRAMER HAVE SPECIAL EXPERTISE
Does your artwork require special attention? For works where sustaining value is important, we suggest that you to turn to a custom framer who is certified in art conservation. If professional restoration is required, not all custom framers will be up to the challenge. Make sure to explain what you need for and from your framed art. And respect the time that it might take for your framer to give your artwork the attention that it deserves.
HOW AVAILABLE IS THE FRAMER
Complaints about how long a framing job can take are nothing new for custom framers. The fact that your framer offers a lot of choices in materials is great, but it also means that they won’t always have a full stock. Some suppliers might take longer to deliver the materials that are needed. Some might have run out of stock. If you’re looking for a last-minute frame, know that you’ll have to make some compromises. But also note that many framers don’t offer last-minute framing services at all.
DELIVERY AND INSTALLATION
Delivery and installation is a service that won’t be offered by all framers, but it is a nice bonus when they do. A custom frame, especially when glass is used, should always be safely secured to protect it from damage. But don’t expect that every framer will have the human resources to do the installation. Just remember that you can always seek advice from your framer. They’ll be happy to propose ways to protect their work.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING
The most important thing to remember is that, while custom framing might seem like a lot, it can also be extremely rewarding when done with care. Carefully selected materials and professional design decisions will help to protect your artwork and display beautifully. And very soon you’ll have found a friend in your custom framer. Then you will never have to look for one again.
