10 Important questions you should ask a Professional Framer

Deciding to visit a picture framer to get a piece of art professionally framed can be a daunting experience if you’ve never done it before. Knowing what to ask a professional framer will help you feel confident about getting the results you want at an affordable price.

Whether you know exactly what type of frame you’re after, need some guidance or are just checking out your options, here are 10 questions you should ask a professional framer before using their services:

1. Can you frame my item?

Picture framers can help you with framing prints, photographs and other flat artworks. Many will also offer services such as canvas stretching, memorabilia framing and mirror framing.

At Portfolio Picture Framers, we can help with framing just about anything, including 3D and bulky items. You name it – we frame it. Some items may be better showcased in a clear perspex box – we also supply these in store and can get custom dimensions made for you as well. 

We provide custom framing services for:

• Paper, canvas and fabric artworks
• Photographs
• Certificates and awards
• Wedding flowers and keepsakes
• War medals
• Sports memorabilia
• Pet memorials
• Puzzles
• Mirrors

And so much more!

2. How safe is my artwork?

If you’re getting a valuable or sentimental item framed, it’s important to know that it will be safe and secure in the framing studio. 

It’s a good idea to visit the framing studio in person, especially if it’s your first time engaging with a particular framer. We encourage our clients to come visit our Myaree showroom and factory so you can get a sense of how we operate. We understand how important it is that you feel confident when entrusting your precious items to a framer, so we welcome any questions you have about the materials we use, the processes we follow and the quality of our work.

3. Where will the framing be done?

Some picture framing businesses send artworks to a different location to be framed, others operate on-site. The benefit of an on-site studio is that it minimises the amount of times your item is transported and handled. On-site picture framing also means you can usually meet the person doing your framing and discuss your needs or concerns with them directly.

At Portfolio Picture Framers, your items will never leave our premises. All of our framing is done on-site by us. Our owner and head framer Travis is always happy to meet clients, offer advice and answer any questions you may have.

4. What materials do you use?

The quality of materials used and the type of techniques employed will affect the longevity and appearance of your framed artwork. Unfortunately, some framers use poor quality materials and cut corners during their framing process.

It is important that acid-free materials are used, especially for backing and matting. Materials that contain acid will break down paper and cause discolouration issues over time. 

At Portfolio Picture Framers, we use the highest quality materials available in Australia. All of our materials are acid-free and made to quality conservation standards. We believe framing should be done to the highest quality, so we don’t cut corners or settle for sub-standard supplies. If you have any questions about the materials and techniques we use, we are happy to run you through them. 

5. What mat board should I choose?

A mat board is the coloured border that sits around an artwork to enhance the presentation of the artwork and protect it from damage. Mat boards come in a vast array of colours, textures and fabrics to suit every type of artwork and framing style.

If you want to add a mat board, but aren’t sure what works best with your piece, ask us for advice. We can help you choose the right colours to complement your art all while keeping within your personal tastes and style. Not all items require a mat board and some people choose to frame their piece without matting – we can offer recommendations on how to best present your artwork without a mat board in this case.

6. What type of frames do you have?

It’s important that you can choose the exact type, size and style frame you want for your item. After all, that’s the benefit of custom framing. Ask us about the different options we can offer. If you’re not surehow to choose the right photo frame for your picture, we can suggest frame types that would bring the best out of your artwork.

When you come into the Portfolio Picture Framers showroom, we’ll ask whether you have a frame colour or style in mind. Having a colour or style in mind reduces the number of choices and can help with the decision-making process. However, if you don’t have a colour or style in mind, we can suggest some choices that will enhance the framed artwork, while staying within your personal style. Don’t be afraid to say, “No, I hate that one!” because it’s one step closer to finding the perfect frame.

Also read: Frame Styles for Art

7. Which type of glass should I choose?

The type of glass you choose can affect the appearance of your framed artwork as well as its longevity. Most framing studios offer a standard glass as their most affordable option. This type of glass reflects light and offers no protection from UV rays. Unless your item is very valuable or it's going to be displayed in direct sunlight, this is a cost-effective option to protect your framed artwork from dust, finger marks, dirt and moisture.

Another popular and relatively inexpensive glass in a non-reflective glass. Reflection-control glass does exactly as the name suggests, it controls reflection to improve visibility of the artwork. It’s a good choice if you don’t want to see your kitchen reflected in the framed art on the other side of the room. 

The premium glass option is a UV-grade glass that blocks 99% of UV rays from reaching your artwork. This ensures that your artwork will never fade from the sun’s harmful rays. We recommend this option if you have an original or limited edition artwork that is very valuable.

8. Why should I choose custom framing over a ready-made frame?

Whether you’re framing family photographs, aMothers Day present or an original artwork, you’ve probably asked yourself whether you should buy a pre-made frame or opt for custom framing. 

Custom picture frames havemany benefits over ready made options. Custom framing allows you to get the exact frame you want, enhances the overall appearance of the artwork and offers superior protection for your piece. If you’re framing an item of sentimental value, an original artwork or an expensive item, we highly recommend choosing a custom frame.

If you’re not sure whether a custom frame is worth it, we can offer you the best options to maximise results while sticking to budget. Ask the team at Portfolio Picture Framers for a quote – it might not be as expensive as you think!

Also read:Why not frame your artwork yourself? 

9. How much will your framing services cost?

Pricing is an important factor, especially if you are framing several pieces at once. The price of a custom frame can vary greatly depending on the size and style of your frame as well as other factors such as matting and mounting. 

We offer highly competitive prices at Portfolio Picture Framers. Since our services are done in-house, we pass the savings onto our customers by offering factory-direct prices. 

Get in touch for a quote or visit our showroom to see what we can offer.

10. What is your turnaround time for framing services?

It’s worth asking how long it will take until you receive your frame, especially if you are framing something time sensitive such as a gift or exhibition piece. 

We usually have your frame ready within 10 -14 days after you’ve chosen your framing options. If you have an urgent framing job, we can often accommodate depending on the specification. Simply let our team know and we’ll do our best to meet your needs.

Got more questions? Ask away!

At Portfolio Picture Framers, we’re always happy to answer questions, offer advice and provide you with a wide range of framing solutions. Call our team on (08) 9330 5884 or visit our showroom in Myaree to see how we can help you.