Frequently Asked Questions
How much will it cost to frame my picture?
The cost will depend upon a number of factors including the size of the item, width and height and style of frame that you would like. You might want an oak frame for example or just the cheapest option, but let us know if you have any "special" requests as it might need 3D framing or special glass for UV protection or anti-glare properties. We have access to over 6000 different mouldings, many from stock, with options to suit every budget! The best thing to do is to pop in and see us for a no obligation quote.
I am not sure how I would like my picture framed, can you give me advice?
We know that choosing framing can be overwhelming with all the possibilities on offer, that’s why we are always happy to use our experience to suggest a framing solution that will bring the best out of your picture or object. If you are not sure what style of frame you prefer, for example traditional or contemporary, it can help to think about the style of the room the frame will hang in, or the style of other framed pictures in your house.
How long will it take to frame my picture?
We aim to keep a wide range of materials in stock, however if we have to order moulding or other special materials, and depending on the complexity of the framing, we aim to complete work within four weeks. Having said that, we will do our best to prioritise work to suit the customer, and try to have the work complete as soon as you require it.
Are all of your frames wood or are they plastic / MDF?
MDF frames have their place, it’s just not here. You’ll get them (and compressed cardboard ones) from home furnishing stores, DIY stores,some reputable department stores and even some framers. MDF frames are not designed to be permanent – hence the low selling price.
Plastic (or composite) frames are made from a cocktail of chemicals and petro-chemical by-products. They are cheap, but both the manufacturing and end disposal of this type of frame is not particularly eco-friendly.
We only use wood mouldings, as we find they create the most durable and beautiful frames to conserve your work. We are also aware of the importance of sustainability, using FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council®) suppliers to ensure the timber comes from an environmentally friendly source.
Are your materials sustainably sourced?
We recognise the increased environmental concerns over wood sources, and our three primary supply partners hold FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Chain of Custody certifications.
This scheme provides assurance mechanisms to us that the wood and paper products that we source are produced in a sustainable way. Products carrying FSC labels are independently certified to assure consumers that they come from forests that are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations.
Chain of Custody certification is the unbroken path which products take from the forest to the consumer, including all stages of manufacturing, transportation and distribution. This means that we can offer you the added reassurance and peace of mind about the source of the timber in our products.
What sort of glass do you use?
For bespoke framing, we recommend UV blocking glass in order to protect your valued items, but there are a number of options, including tint-free, anti-reflective (AR), and plain float glass.
AR glass should be considered if you are hanging the picture in a brightly lit area, near a light source, or in direct sunlight, whilst UV glass will protect against fading.
Combined UV/AR glass (such as Artglass AR70) combines the best of both.
You can see examples of each type of glass on display in the gallery.
Can I have Perspex?
What is the largest item that you can frame?
As a small gallery, we are limited for space, both for storage and creation. Standard glass comes in 1200mm x 900mm sheets (4' x 3'), so this is normally our largest size. Larger items can be arranged depending on their complexity.
Do I have to pay all the cost up front?
For bespoke framing we ask for a deposit of 50% when the work is left with us.
Will my picture be safe with you? Is it insured?
Whether worth thousands of pounds or of sentimental value we treat all of our customers work with the same care and attention. You do have to leave your item with us but it will not leave the premises. In addition, we offer Artwork Care Cover as detailed in our Business Terms and Conditions.
Can you frame a needle work?
We regularly frame needle works, cross-stitches and tapestries and we can carry out lacing and stretching if you would prefer us to do it.
Can you frame multiple items?
Yes, we can cut a mount with multiple windows to accommodate your artworks.
Can I get a picture remounted but re-use the frame it’s already in?
Yes! Getting a picture re-mounted can be a fantastic budget friendly way to conserve and bring out the beauty in a picture.
Do you carry out frame repairs?
We can replace your broken glass, or even change the glass for better glass that we stock in the gallery. We can replace or add new mounts into your frame. We can re-hinge your artwork if it has ‘slipped’ in the frame. We can replace or fit new back boards, and also fit new cord or wire hangers.
Do you sell just mounts?
Yes we do. We sell all types of different sized mounts, colours and styles. If you tell us what you require, then we can cut it for you, often while you wait.
Will my picture be ready to hang on the wall?
As standard all frames are finished with cord and are ready to hang. Alternatively, if you have a smaller picture we can make it ready to stand (by request)
Where is the best place to hang a picture?
Some things to consider when choosing where to hang a picture are;-
- Is it in direct sunlight? Direct light can cause distracting reflections from artwork framed in standard float glass and so may benefit from Artglass AR (anti-reflective) glass. In addition, UV light causes works on paper to fade, with watercolours being particularly susceptible, and modern reproduction prints and oil and acrylic paintings being less so. If you have a high value or precious work that you would like to protect from fading consider framing it with a UV protection specialist glass, such as Artglass UV.
- Is it humid or damp? Paper is susceptible to absorbing moisture from its surroundings, and hanging a picture on a damp wall can cause condensation inside the frame. Pictures that have been exposed to moisture can buckle and warp, or become discoloured.
- Is the temperature consistent? As well as moisture, paper is sensitive to heat, and could buckle or warp if hung above a heat source such as a radiator.
There are no hard and fast rules as to whether a picture will deteriorate when hung in a particular spot - the best thing to do is to keep an eye on any changes to the paper.
How will I receive my completed work?
Due to concerns around damage and breakage of work, we usually ask that items are collected in person from the gallery. We will contact you via the method agreed during your initial consultation, once work is ready for collection.
We also offer delivery by courier by arrangement.