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| What about cost? The fees for custom framing reflect the size of the project, quality of materials used and the time required to produce the final product. A simple design with basic, non-conservation materials is not expensive, while an intricate design with quality wood moulding and preservation materials will run a little more. In relation to the other items found in a home or office, such as sofas, chairs, tables, desks, draperies and lamps, it is usually one of the least expensive of the decorative items. Yet, no one would disagree that some of the first things that catch your eye are the frames and artwork on the walls. They tell others who you are and what is valuable to you. They set the tone of a home or office more than any other element. Custom framing can be more expensive than the mass-produced, off-the-rack framing that is outsourced to other countries, of course - but, as always, you get what you pay for. A little more spent on the presentation can take it from the same "cheap art" you'll find anywhere, to a unique "Fine Art Piece" that reflects your own personality.  A little Technical stuff:Custom framing is one of a few things still done by hand. Each piece is specially designed, measured and built to your specifications. Although we use tools and some machinery - and even some new technology - each frame is still made 'one of a kind'. We do not mass produce, so each project takes time, care and patience. While sofas, carpets and fabrics will change many times through your life; the photos, beautiful artwork and momentos you cherish will stay with you for many, many years - and sometimes generations. The design is very important to the long-term enjoyment of your piece. Even more important may be the materials and methods used in the framing. Proper hinging and mounting methods, along with acid-free, lignin-free mounting and mat boards will help to preserve your items for more than a lifetime. There are many types of matboard available, but they can be broken down to roughly 3 categories: paper mats, the lowest quality mats that still contain acids or lignin (a substance in wood products that breaks down into acidic byproducts which can harm artwork and paper) - purified alpha-cellulose, in which the lignin has been removed and is considered "conservation grade" - and finally rag or cotton mats, the highest quality, which naturally contain no acids or lignin. These may also be called museum boards. Glass or acrylic is available in many grades also. Some basic categories here are: "regular" clear, providing only minimal protection. - UV filter, which blocks 98% of UV light, (which causes much of the damage to the art we see, and also accelerates damage caused by other pollutants and acids). - And finally Museum Quality which blocks the most UV light, while virtually eliminating glare and distortion. Samples of these are available for you to see the difference yourself. We'll help you determine the best framing materials and methods for your piece - whether it is an inexpensive poster, fine-art or treasured keepsake - and then we'll work with you for a great design and presentation. There really is nothing like professional custom framing to highlight and enhance your art and environment. | |
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