Picture Framing FAQs
Common questions about custom picture framing, materials, pricing, and turnaround times.
General Picture Framing Questions
What are your business hours?
Monday 9-5
Tuesday 9-7
Wednesday 9-5
Thursday 9-5Friday 9-5
Saturday 9-5
Sunday and holidays closed
Do you have parking?
Yes, we have ample parking on the side and in the back of the building.
Do you pick up and deliver?
Yes, we can arrange to pick up an extra large piece or deliver your finished framing.
What can you frame?
We can frame virtually anything, including original artwork, paintings, prints, posters, and photographs, as well as canvas pieces, mirrors, and oversized wall art.
We also work with items that require more specialized handling, such as sports jerseys, textiles, needlework, memorabilia, diplomas, certificates, and collectibles. Three dimensional objects can be accommodated using custom built shadow boxes designed for proper depth and support.
If a piece is fragile, valuable, irregular in size, or not suited to a standard frame, we design a solution around it. Materials and construction methods are selected based on the needs of the item to ensure it is supported properly and preserved over time.
Do I need an appointment to get something framed?
No appointment is required. You can come in during business hours and we will walk you through the options, materials, and design choices based on your piece
What does custom picture framing include?
Custom framing involves selecting the appropriate materials, designing the layout, and building the frame to suit the specific piece. This includes proper mounting, matting, glazing, and assembly to ensure both presentation and long-term stability.
What types of items require custom framing instead of ready-made frames?
Items that are not a standard size, have value, if you want something unique and to stand out, or requires long-term protection are best suited for custom framing. This allows the frame to be built to exact dimensions and ensures the materials used will support the piece over time.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept standard forms of payment, including major credit cards. If you have a specific question about payment, we can clarify options in-store.
Custom Framing Process & Turnaround
How does the custom framing process work?
Visit us with your artwork, and we will guide you through the design. Each project starts with selecting materials and designing the layout based on the piece, and your preferences. From there, we cut and prepare the components, assemble the frame, and complete the finishing. Everything is done in-house so we maintain control over quality at every step.
How long does custom framing take?
Our normal turnaround time is approximately three weeks, depending on materials and the complexity of the project. In some cases, we can complete simpler pieces more quickly if needed.
Can I get a quote before committing?
Yes. We prefer you come in with your item for framing, for the most accurate quote, given the range of options and variables we have. However, we will provide our best estimates based on the size of the piece, materials selected, and overall design. Final pricing is determined once the details are confirmed at the design counter.
Can you match an existing frame or style?
Yes. We can often match or closely replicate an existing frame by selecting similar profiles, finishes, and materials. Exact matches depend on availability, but we aim to maintain consistency with the original piece. Keep in mind, that some frame styles are updated and discontinued at times. If you are planning to match several pieces it is always best to bring them all in together.
What information should I bring when getting something framed?
Bring the item you want framed, along with any reference images or ideas for how you want it displayed. Knowing where the piece will be placed and any size constraints also helps guide the design. We will help guide you otherwise.
Do you offer rush or expedited framing?
We have the ability to keep a variety of materials in stock for quick turnaround. We have been able to frame simple items in 24 hoursor less if needed. Rush service does limit the design options.
Materials, Glass & Protection
What are archival framing materials?
Archival materials are designed to prevent deterioration over time. These materials are acid-free and stable, helping protect artwork from discoloration, brittleness, and environmental damage.
What materials do you use for custom framing?
We use a range of materials selected based on the needs of the piece, including hand-crafted wood mouldings, premium milled acrylic, archival matting, conservation-grade backing, and UV protective glass. Each component is chosen to ensure proper support and longevity.
What is the best glass for picture framing?
The best glass for picture framing depends on the level of protection and clarity you want. For most artwork, we recommend museum glass or conservation-grade glazing, which offers high clarity and helps reduce UV exposure that can cause fading over time.
Regular options are available, but for pieces that matter, selecting the right glazing plays a significant role in both presentation and long-term preservation.
Do you offer UV-protective glass?
Yes. We offer and recommend glazing options that help reduce UV exposure, which can cause fading and deterioration.
What is museum glass?
Museum glass is a premium framing grade glass option that provides high clarity that is nearly invisible and free of reflections. It also includes strong UV protection, making it suitable for valuable or sensitive artwork.
What is the difference between regular glass and museum glass?
Regular glass provides basic protection, while museum glass offers significantly higher clarity and reduces reflections to almost nothing. It also includes UV protection to help prevent fading over time.
What is cotton rag matting?
Cotton rag matting is made from natural cotton fibers and is naturally both lignin-free, and acid-free. It is used for higher value or sensitive pieces where long term preservation is important, as it will not yellow or break down over time like standard paper based mats.
What is lignin-free matting?
Lignin-free matting is made without the compounds that can cause paper to yellow and break down over time. It is used in conservation framing to help preserve artwork and documents.
Will framing protect my artwork from fading or damage?
Proper framing helps protect artwork from dust, light exposure, and environmental changes. Using the right materials and construction methods reduces the risk of fading, warping, and long term damage. It is always best to ensure avoiding placing all artwork in direct sunlight.
What framing is best for valuable or original artwork?
Valuable or original pieces are typically framed using conservation methods, including archival materials, UV-protective glazing, and proper mounting techniques to ensure the artwork remains stable over time.
Specialty & Custom Work
Can you make large frames?
Yes, we can make frames to virtually any size. So far, our largest frame was 111” x 106” and was assembled on site because it wouldn’t fit through the doors of the residence.
Can you frame oversized artwork or large pieces?
Yes. Oversized artwork requires specialized materials and construction to ensure it is properly supported and displayed safely. We design each frame to handle the scale of the piece.
Do you offer shadow box framing?
Yes. Shadow boxes are custom built to provide depth for items that cannot sit flat, such as memorabilia, textiles, and three-dimensional objects. Each one is designed based on the item and how it will be displayed.
Can you frame canvas artwork or stretch canvas?
Yes. We offer canvas stretching using properly constructed stretcher bars, as well as framing options such as float frames and traditional framing depending on the piece.
Can you frame jerseys, textiles, or memorabilia?
Yes. These items require custom mounting and support to ensure they are held securely without damage. We design the framing to both protect the piece and present it clearly.
Can you frame three-dimensional or deep objects?
Yes. We build custom frames and shadow boxes with the required depth to accommodate three-dimensional items while keeping them secure and properly supported.
Additional Services
Do you offer pickup and delivery for framing projects?
Yes. We can arrange pickup and delivery for larger or more complex projects, depending on the size and location.
Do you offer professional art installation services?
Yes, we have extensive experience installing artwork. We offer picture hanging and art installation. When you schedule installation, the delivery fee is included in the installation charge.
Do you offer picture hanging services?
Yes. We provide picture frame hanging services for individual pieces and full layouts, including gallery walls. Our team ensures each piece is securely mounted and properly positioned.
Do you repair picture frames?
Yes. We repair damaged frames, replace glass, and address structural issues. Each repair is evaluated to determine the best approach based on the condition of the piece.
Do you help design gallery walls or multi-piece layouts?
Yes. We assist with planning and layout to ensure proper spacing, alignment, and visual balance across multiple pieces.
Pricing & Value
How much does custom framing cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of the piece, materials selected, and the complexity of the design. The best way to get an accurate price is to visit with your artwork so we can walk through options and provide a clear, no obligation estimate.
Do you offer discounts on custom framing?
We are far from discount framers. If price is the most important factor in your selection of a framer, we are probably not going to win your business. We do offer a 10% discount to new customers on the first custom order with us. This discount applies to all pieces framed on the first order and is a good chance to try us out. Other than this new customer discount, we generally don't discount as we, as well as our customers believe our prices are fair.
Why is custom framing more expensive than ready-made frames?
Custom framing is built specifically for your piece using higher-quality, protective materials and proper and-crafted methods. It ensures the artwork is supported correctly, presented properly, and protected over time, rather than simply fitting into a standard frame. The range of customization options are also far greater.
Is custom framing worth the investment?
For pieces that have value, whether financial or sentimental, proper framing helps protect and preserve them over time. Using the right materials and construction methods reduces the risk of fading, warping, and long-term damage.
Custom framing also plays a significant role in how the piece looks. The right frame, matting, and proportions are selected specifically for the artwork, enhancing its color, depth, and overall presentation. Rather than forcing a piece into a standard frame, the design is built around it so it feels complete and intentional.
When done properly, custom framing does not just protect the piece, it elevates how it is experienced in the space.
Location & Service Areas
Do you offer custom picture framing near me?
Yes. Boston Frame Works provides custom picture framing for clients in Boston, Cambridge, and surrounding areas. Customers visit our Cambridge location for design and consultation, and we can arrange pickup and delivery for larger or more complex projects when needed.
What areas do you serve for picture framing?
We serve Boston, Cambridge, and nearby communities. Many customers come from across the Greater Boston area for our custom framing services.
Do you work with customers outside of Boston and Cambridge?
Yes. Clients regularly come to us from surrounding areas for custom framing, especially for larger, more specialized, or design-driven projects. We can also arrange pickup, delivery, and installation when needed, depending on the scope of the project and location.
GET IN TOUCH
Unlock an exclusive opportunity for first-time visitors to experience our highest quality CUSTOM framing with a 10% discount on your entire order.
*We respect your privacy
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
© Copyright 2023 Boston Frame Works. All rights reserved. | Website design and digital marketing powered by FLOW5 Marketing