Custom Framing: A Beginner's Guide
When they go into their local frame shop, many customers have no clue what to expect. For those who aren't familiar with custom framing, it might be a frightening concept.
Fear not: your neighborhood custom framer is a pro! She's a true artist, but bespoke framing is also an art form in and of itself. She will not only assist you in selecting the ideal frame design for your artwork, but she will also advise you on how to keep it safe. She'll also assist you in sticking to your financial plan. Phew! Isn't that a relief?
Not totally, to be sure. There are a few fundamental things you should know before heading into your local frame store, whether you're an artist, an art collector, or just seeking to have your prized mementos properly framed. Being prepared will make everyone's experience with custom framing more pleasurable.
Don't forget to bring your work!
Even if you've previously measured it, the framer must take exact measurements. After all, a photograph can never do justice to the genuine thing. The intricacies in the colors, patterns, and textures of the frames will astound you - and you'll be delighted you can see how they appear with your artwork!
Call the frame shop and explain the issue if your work is really precious or you are concerned about it being destroyed in transportation. When you bring your artwork in, get them advise on how to best preserve it. Various precautions will be recommended depending on what it is.
Prior to interior design, create a frame
You want your artwork to be attractive on your walls. However, if you keep the interior design part out of it at first, you will be pleased. Consider how well your frame options complement your artwork, and then how well the finished result complements the space in which it is displayed. That way, you'll be lot more pleased with the outcome!
Allow yourself enough time
Custom framing isn't something you should do on the spur of the moment. You may be able to dash in and out without being seen, but don't depend on it. Even if you succeed in making it quick, the end effect may not be satisfactory. Take some time to consider your frame options; you'll be pleased you did!
Contrast is important
Colors that are diametrically opposed on the color wheel complement each other well. That's why so many black-and-white photos have white matting and black frames. If your painting has warmer hues or blues, use a wood frame with an orange undertone and a contrasting blue inner mat. At least when it comes to color, opposites usually attract.
Change up the size of your items
If you're going to use both, the frame should be significantly thinner than the mat (in general). The human eye prefers variety; when everything is the same size, it seems weird and monotonous.
If you don't go big, you may as well not go at all
Mat width used to be three inches on average, but now it's four! Mats have grown in size as dwellings have become larger and more lofty. Make it a little bigger than you think it should be! When you hang anything on the wall, it always seems smaller than you expected. Consider using broader molding if you aren't utilizing a mat. On your wall, it'll be stunning.
There is no glass in a canvas painting
Before you go to your local frame shop, keep in mind that canvas need air to breathe. As a result, no glass should be used to frame it. The only exception is if you place it in a high-risk area (such a room with a constantly-burning fire, a smoke-filled bar, or the great outdoors). Otherwise, do without the glass — it'll save you money and be better for your canvas.
Isn't it true that all white is the same?
Wrong! It's never simply white when it comes to the color white. When you put cold whites next to warm whites, red undertones next to green undertones, you'll see the variations. If all you want is "a basic, white mat," you could try a few other possibilities. There's a good chance that certain whites will go with your artwork better than others!
Custom frame, as the name implies, is one-of-a-kind
You'll need to pick your materials before the framer can give you an exact price since she won't know how much the framing project will cost simply by glancing at the artwork. The majority of custom frames have a wide pricing range, and even then, there will be some outliers. It's all up to you to make the ultimate decision.
Having a budget for your artwork in mind is a more constructive way to tackle the problem. The framer may then assist you in making decisions that keep you inside your budget.
Maintain a flexible mindset...
Even if you know precisely what you want, you may be provided with fantastic possibilities you hadn't considered. In addition, based on successful design ideas, frame specialists will provide suggestions. You don't have to abandon your artistic vision if you have one, but you should have an open mind!
However, you should also follow your instincts
The majority of us undervalue our visual senses! It's generally a good idea to look at a few different frames, but don't limit yourself — the first one you choose is frequently the one you end up keeping.
Grasshopper, be patient
The procedure of custom framing is meticulous. It is time-consuming! Call beforehand to find out how long it usually takes, and then arrive to the framer's with plenty of time to spare. You'll be pleased you waited because it'll be magnificent when you receive it back.