Readymade frames are a cost effect way of framing artwork, however, there are limitations and their use are not advisable for all types of artwork.
Custom frames are one of a kind. A well designed and made frame will last for many years to come and certainly longer than most other home furnishings.
Readymade frames are limited in choice of styles and sizes and usually made of inferior materials. The corners are pinned, and the backs are often made of fibre board, a cheap option that tends to bend and the hangings can break free. MDF can be used in some products.
Custom framing offers the consumer a wide selection of mouldings in usually wood or aluminium in various styles and colours. These can be made to complimented with the addition of a custom-made matts in various colours, finishes and depths. This allows for various techniques to be used to enhance the appearance … float mounted, double mounted, shadow box, set to the back of the frame. The list can be as long as the framer’s imagination.
A professional custom framer would glue and pin the corners to give extra strength and to minimise the movement that can open the corners up, through expansion and contraction to changes in the atmosphere. The backs can be of various materials, our favourite is MDF as this adds to the stability of the frame, keeping the artwork in place and not so prone to warping. A conservation barrier board is added between the back and the artwork for protection from acids. Other man-made backs are available.
Readymade frames are glazed with rolled glass, which can have imperfections, colour cast, and a slight ripple to the surface. Custom frames use quality float glass. Our minimum is water white which has greater clarity and less iron particles which can create a green tinge. Anti-reflective and UV options are also available.
Custom are finished with superior hangings that should be attached to the frame not the backing board, together with none corrosive wire (coated in thin plastic to stop rusting)
COMPARISON
Readymade Custom
- Lower Cost More More expensive
- Available off the shelf Made to order
- Basic materials used Quality materials
- Limited styles Large range of styles
- Limited colours Large range of colour choices
- Limited size options Any size
- One type of glass Various quality glazing options
- Mass produced Individually made by expert framer.
- Limited advice Professional framing advice.
