DIY Framing Tips & Tools
We frame almost all of the artwork we buy, except for the artwork that comes framed already. We like ornate, vintage and antique frames which are basically the same Search terms we use on Etsy and eBay to find and watch frames. We do the framing ourselves because of the exorbitant cost of going to a professional framer which can cost anywhere between $200-$1000, depending on the size of the frame. Often times the frames they use look cheap and ugly.
Finding frames for a work is one of the most time consuming and aggravation filled process when purchasing or planning to purchase artwork. We usually try to find frames before we buy or commission a work. The size of the work is a major factor to consider, and the size of a work is determined for us, by the amount of wall space available (Our space is small which makes wall space a constant challenge).
Guide on how to measure artwork for framing
Picture Frame Dimensions Explained
Additional Frame Accessories, Tools & Add-ons…….
Wall Buddies are for our larger wood frames to prevent them from bowing over time. (If you use hanging wire on a larger wood frame, the final product might warp and bow after a few months.)
Flexipoint Tabs come included on the back of our wood frames and are meant to be bent back to remove the backing from your frame, and then pushed back into place again once everything is placed in properly. These perform the same function as spring clips do for metal frames— keep everything in place and ensure nothing inside the frame can move or shake around.
Spring Clips Anchor backings so that they do not move in the frame. This is a great tool to make sure frame’s contents don’t move around.
Bumpers are meant to protect your wall more than your frame. Put the bumpers on the back corners of the metal frame to preserve your wall just as well as the frame you have preserves your artwork.
Felt Pads are added to the wood frame corners to protect your wall.
Getting started:
BLICK® Art Materials | Framing Supplies | Framing Supplies Online
How to Frame Art: A Simple Guide to Framing Art - MasterClass
DIY Framing Kits for Prints and Pictures | Level Frames