Frequently Asked Questions

How Does This Work?

Simply enter the size of the artwork in the box.  Type full inches into the first entry panel.  Select fractions (if needed) from the drop-down menu of the second entry panel.  Then carry on through the succeeding steps, selecting the frame, mat, glazing and backing from the drop down menus. 

What Width of Frame Should I Choose Given the Size of My Artwork?

This is not written in stone, but this gives you some guidance...

Artwork Size           Recommended Range of Frame Widths

8"x10" or smaller                    1-1/4" or narrower
9"x12" - 11"x14"                    1-1/4" - 2"
12"x16"-16"x20"                     2" - 2-1/4"
16"x20"-20"x24"                     2-1/4"-2-3/4"
20"x24"-24"x36"                     2-3/4"-3"
24"x36" or larger                    3" or wider

See a list of frames by categorized by width

How Do I Figure Out My Overall Frame Size?

You don't have to.  Just enter the size of your artwork in the box.  We will cut a mat with a 2" border.  So the mat will increase the overall frame size by 4" on each dimension.


So What Size Will My Frame Be?

Basically, if you include a mat, your frame size will be 4" larger than your artwork size on each dimension.  For example, if your artwork is 16"x20" your frame size will be 20"x24"

If you don't include a mat, your frame size will be the same size as your artwork.

  Do I Need Any Tools for This?

You will not need any tools to assemble wood frames.  You will need a screwdriver to assemble metal frames.  To attach hanging hardware you will need a screwdriver.  Wire clippers may be needed to clip off excess hanging wire.  You should also use Titebond wood glue when assembling wood frames. 

We offer an EZ-Finish Mounting Kit that provides you everything you need to mount the artwork, hold the contents in the frame, and hang it.   

Will My Frame Arrive Fully Assembled?

No.  Fully assembled frames, while convenient, are costly to ship and prone to damage in transit, leading to add-on charges for insurance and handling.  We ship sectional frames which are quick and easy to assemble and since they ship broken down cost less for shipping and incur no additional charges, making them less expensive to you.

How to Assemble Wood Sectional Frames

How to Assemble Metal Sectional Frames

Is Everything Acid Free?

Our regular mats are pH neutral Crescent Decorative Mats.  Our Rag mats are 100% acid and lignin free conservation grade mats.  Regular foam board has some potential long term acidity which should be a concern for art meant to hang for more than 50 years.  Acid free foamboard is available as an option. 

For more on acid free materials and conservation framing, click here. 

How Soon Will I Receive My Order?

Allow 7-10 days from the day of placement to receive all items.  Frame styles ending in -N will ship with your other items.  Frame styles ending in - L will ship separately from our framing warehouse in TX and may arrive 2-3 days before or after the other items.