When it comes to framing your special photos, artwork and memorabilia, price may not be the only consideration but its pretty important...
It's a difficult question to answer straight up, because custom frames have so many variables and options that make it tricky know the price until you've figured out exactly what you want... so the short answer is... it depends.
Here are the basic variables you need to consider...
Framing/Moulding
The frame itself is also known as the moulding. Moulding comes in a full array of colours, sizes and material from plain black or white, to natural timbers, to ornate silver and golds. There are a number of mouldings that are made here in New Zealand and an even larger number that are imported from around the world from places such as Australia and Italy. We have a wide range of samples available in store.
Mat board
Mat board is a special type of cardboard-like material that is used in framing as an extra layer and border a frame and the artwork. It can really help to enhance the artwork and increases the overall size. It also gives extra protection for the artwork by providing a tiny space between the artwork and the glass.
Mat boards come in a wide range of colours, textures and grades (from standard acid-free to museum) and usually have a white core. This white core is visible as the tiny, bevelled edge on the inside of the mat cut. Black core boards are also available. See more about mat boards here.Glass
Standard picture framing glass is a 2mm clear float glass. For large sized artworks a 3mm glass is needed. While standard glass protects your artwork from dust and physical damage however it does not protect from UV rays which lead to fading, and its shiny surface reflects the light.
UV70 non-reflective glass is 2mm thick with a coating that reduces light reflection significantly, providing extra clarity for your artwork. it also offers protection from 70% of UV rays.
Museum glass offers the most protection available from UV rays - 99%. Its anti-glare coating makes the glass almost invisible providing optimal clarity.
Acrylic, or ‘Perspex’ as it’s more commonly known, is a lighter-weight alternative to standard glass. It is a little more expensive than glass and can scratch more easily but with very large artworks where glass will be too heavy, acrylic is the best option.