subject: The Difference Between Ready Made Frames and Custom Picture Frames [print this page] Knowing the difference between custom frames and ready made picture frames is important when you're shopping for frames. Having a good understanding of these two types of frames will help you get the right frame without spending more than you want. So, what is the difference between ready made frames and custom frames?
A ready made picture frame is just that- a frame that is ready to be used right out of the box. Manufacturers of ready made picture frames assemble and package them so all you need to do is open the box, insert your picture and it's ready to be displayed.
Ready made frames usually come in standard sizes. You can find ready made frames for pictures, standard sized art work, small keepsakes or documents, like diplomas. Ready made frames are complete when assembled. They come with glass, backing, and some hardware for either displaying on a table or hanging on the wall. However, not all ready made frames include both hanging hardware and easel back stands. Ask your frame retailer to make sure you have everything you need to display your framed picture.
There are many different frame retailers that offer ready made frames online and in stores. With so much available you should be able to find exactly what you want.
Custom picture frames, on the other hand, give you more options than ready made frames. Custom frames are measured, cut and assembled specifically for you. If your framed item is not a standard size, or if you need a unique depth or dimension for your artwork or keepsakes, a custom frame is the answer. With a custom frame, you can choose the type of protective surface you want, whether glass or acrylic with a UV coating.
Custom picture frames let you create a unique look and choose the style of the frame, color, size, picture frame mats and the layout of your picture. Some customer framers refer to these as "ready made frames," because they are cut to a specific size, but this process really is a custom made frame as they're hand assembled.
Why should I choose a ready made picture frame over a custom picture frame?
You should only choose a ready made or custom picture frame when you know what you want to frame. If you have high quality or unique artwork, then a custom picture frame is your best choice especially if it's a non-standard size. A custom picture frame can be made to accommodate almost any dimension and thickness so it's exceptionally versatile. There are many options to choose from with custom frames so you have a lot of flexibility to find a frame that goes well with your artwork.
Something to consider is that ready made picture frames are usually a lot less expensive. Custom picture frames are cut and assembled by hand which will increase the cost of your framing project.
So, to decide between a ready made frame and a custom frame you need to ask yourself a couple of questions.
Is it a standard picture size? If so, then you'll have lots of options with ready made frames. Ready made frames are available in a wide range of materials, colors, shapes and sizes. You can find frames in everything from wood and metal to gold leaf, sterling and basic black picture frames. If you're looking for a nice looking frame without spending a lot, a ready made frame is your best choice.
If you have a photo that doesn't fit into a ready made frame, one thing you can do is to use a picture frame mat that fits your photo and place it into a standard size frame. This is a great inexpensive option to avoid the cost of a custom picture frame.
However, as convenient and economical as ready made frames are, sometimes you need a custom size or look for your photo or artwork. If you have a unique piece of artwork, whether it's a standard size or not, you may want the extra choices that a custom picture frame offers to best showcase your piece.
Once you have determined which type of frame is best suited for your needs, you're ready to start shopping for your frame. No matter what type of picture frame you choose, you'll now be able to tell the difference between these two types so you can always get exactly what you want.
The Difference Between Ready Made Frames and Custom Picture Frames
