HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HAVE SOMETHING FRAMED?
Custom framing takes anywhere from 10-14 days, with most orders falling closer to the 10 day mark. We can always rush an order if you need something custom framed quickly.

WHEN I DROP SOMETHING OFF TO BE FRAMED, WHERE IS IT ACTUALLY FRAMED?
Being a local, family owned and operated company, all framing is done on the premises by Bob. The materials necessary to complete your order are ordered and then sent to us at the shop.

WHEN I HAVE SOMETHING FRAMED, IS MY ART SAFE AT THE STORE?
When it comes to art handling, no step is overlooked. Each piece is individually packaged and safely stored until the moment before it is put in it’s frame.

MY PICTURES HAVE ALL BEEN FRAMED WITH REGULAR GLASS. WHAT TYPE OF GLASS WOULD YOU SUGGEST TO REDUCE THE GLARE?
When it comes to glare reducing picture frame glass, there are two types: Non-Glare glass, and Museum glass. Each type has a different appearance and different features. Museum glass is a nearly invisible anti-reflective glass with conservation grade UV Protection. This is the best glazing option available for glare, and we highly recommend it. Along with its nearly invisible finish, it effectively blocks up to 99% of harmful indoor and outdoor UV light rays so framed pieces remain clearer and brighter longer. Non-Glare glass enhances the beauty of artwork with an etched matte like finish that scatters light to minimize unwanted glare. Although it is less reflective than regular grade glass, it still can give off a frosted look when in direct sunlight. We recommend this glass in the instance that museum glass is not preferable.

HOW DO I CONSERVE MY ITEM IN A FRAME SO THAT IT WILL NOT DETERIORATE OVER TIME?
In conservation framing, the glass, mats, and backing all have the most impact on the conservation of the item being framed. It starts with the glazing (glass or acrylic), which must be UV protective to help filter out ultraviolet light. Furthermore, the matting and backing must be preservation grade, meaning acid and lignin free. This way, your artwork or memorabilia are protected from both the front and the back from dangerous elements such as UV light and acid.

I NEED TO HANG SOME PICTURES IN AN AREA THAT GETS DIRECT SUNLIGHT. WHAT TYPE OF GLASS WOULD YOU RECOMMEND?
Unfortunately, there isn't a glass or acrylic product that provides 100% protection from the effects UV light. We offer glass with UV protection and acrylic with at least 97% UV protection. Once you have decided to use UV protection glazing, your ultimate selection will depend on features like improved color clarity or reflection control.

HOW MUCH DOES CUSTOM FRAMING COST?
The best way to get a good idea on the cost of framing your art is to bring it in and talk with us about it. We will customize a design for your piece, show you what's available, and provide a quote.

COST DETAILS:
A variety of elements contribute to the bottom line. The moulding, the matting, the glass, and the hinging/mounting.

The Moulding (frame): Custom frames are priced by the foot. So, the cost per foot multiplied by footage required determines the price of the moulding. For Example, an 8" x 10" photo without a mat would need about 4feet of moulding.

Matting: Matboards come in many different styles, colors, textures, thicknesses, core material. Each is a slightly different base price. We price each mat by the square inch (L x W). We typically use 4ply or 8ply acid free mats on the pieces we frame. Fabric is also a favorite choice for floating art or creating elegant shadowboxes.

Glazing: The two variables when pricing glazing are type and size. We offer several glazing choices. From regular to conservation grade, including museum glass and acrylic, each glass serves its own purpose and has a different cost.

Mounting / Backing: Mounting or backing is determined solely by what you are having framed. Rolled posters or prints for example, usually need to be dry-mounted in order to prevent your print from wrinkling in the frame. On the other hand, valuable paintings and documents are hinged to a mat or acid free backing board to ensure that it can be removed from the frame intact if need be.


HOW CAN I GET A PRICE QUOTE?
The best way to get a quote is by bringing your artwork into our shop. With thousands of frames and mats to choose from, the design possibilities are unlimited. There are many components that affect the pricing of custom framing. It all starts with what you are having framed. From the size of the art or item, to the number and type of mats, the type of glass, mounting method necessary, and ultimately the width and composition of the frame. We will help you figure out what products/methods are available and work to find a framing solution that both meets your needs and your budget.

HOW DO I HANG A MIRROR?
To hold heavy mirrors, avoid the use of picture wire. All of our custom framed mirrors will come with D-Ring hangers or Z-bar cleat hangers rather than traditional wall hooks. We often work with designers and construction crews to determine the best hanging solution for mirrors, including consultation on junction boxes for a sconce that may be integrated in the mirror design.

HOW DO I HANG MY ART AND PREVENT FROM THEFT?
To help deter theft, security hangers are available that firmly hold your art in place. A special key tool is needed to lock and unlock it. These are generally used in public places but are also good where the frame may easily be bumped. We highly recommend it for houseboats, earthquake safety, and over cribs.

HOW DO I AVOID CROOKED FRAMES ON THE WALL?
When frames are hung from a single point such as (1) nail or hook, they usually shift on the wall over time. For safety reasons and to keep frames straight, hang your art from two hangers with heavier pieces this will help distribute the weight.

WHAT KIND OF HOOK SHOULD I USE TO HANG MY PICTURE ON DRYWALL?
The best hook to use on drywall is called a "Picture Hook". This type of hook is designed in a v-shape, with the nail being hammered into the wall at a 45 degree angle. These hooks are easy to hammer to the wall, and can hold semi-heavy picture frames, given the right size of picture hook is used. These type of hooks are also very easily removed, and leave little damage to the wall surface. Come by and grab a few if you need them.

HOW SHOULD I FRAME ARTWORK THAT WILL HANG IN A LOBBY, RESTAURANT OR BUSY PLACE?
We recommend using acrylic instead of regular glass, as it will help to reduce the weight of the finished piece, and also provides shatter resistance, which is necessary from a safety and liability standpoint. We recommend selecting a frame with a smooth finish that can resist touching, cleaning and wiping. In common areas, janitorial crews or customers will inevitably touch/clean the frame and can potentially wipe off the finish over time. Security installation hardware is highly recommended, as it helps help hold the picture straight on the wall in case it is bumped and deters theft or removal of the art from the wall.

HOW DO I CLEAN THE GLASS ON MY PICTURE FRAME?
First identify what type of glazing you have on your art. If it is regular glass, use organic cleaners that are free of ammonia and other harmful solvents. If Plexiglas: use a soft cotton cloth with a mild plastic polish. If Museum Glass: use only a microfiber cloth that is clean, preferably new, with a 50/50 glass cleaner and water mix. When actually cleaning, it is important to spray the cleaning agent on one side of a microfiber cloth, and wipe a small section. Once it is clean, use the dry side of the cloth to polish the glass to remove streaks. Repeat this method over the entire surface. Treat Museum Glass like eyeglasses.

HOW DO I CLEAN MY FRAME?
Picture frames have a variety of finishes that may be damaged by water or other household cleaning products. It is recommended to feather dust the frame regularly. If the frame requires heavier cleaning, use water and a soft micro fiber cloth. Make sure to test a small inconspicuous area before applying to the entire frame.

I DAMAGED THE CORNERS ON MY FRAME. CAN THIS BE REPAIRED?
Sometimes. Unfortunately, we will need to see the extent of damage. Please visit us at the shop for further advice on repairing the damaged frame.

I MOVED AND THE MOVING COMPANY DAMAGED MY ART. CAN YOU HELP ME GET MY ART REPAIRED AND HAVE THE COMPANY PAY FOR DAMAGES?
We often work with insurance companies to repair damage to artwork. Documenting the damage to the containers/boxes is key to having the insurance company pay for any repairs. So, take pictures before bringing it to us.