The Pros and Cons of Ready Made Frames Vs. Custom Picture Frames

By co-admin | In: Photography | No Comments

12 December 2009

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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- one that is ready to be used directly 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 photos, small keepsakes, standard sized art work and important 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. If you’re not sure if something is included, check with your frame retailer to make sure you have everything you need for displaying your frame.

There are many different online frame retailers and stores that offer ready made frames. 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 picture frames are measured, cut and put together specially for you. If your photo or artwork is not a standard size, or if you need a unique depth or unusual shape, then a custom frame is definitely your answer. With a custom picture frame, you can select the protective surface you want such as glass, acrylic, UV glass or UV acrylic and you can even choose a unique shape like a flat pane, convex or dome shaped covering.

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.

Which type of picture frame is best?

The answer to that question depends upon what you plan to frame. Original artwork is best suited to a custom picture frame since size sizes are usually non-standard and can vary wildly. A custom picture frame can be made to accomodate almost any dimension and thickness so it’s exceptionally versatile. With custom picture frames you have a lot of flexibility and options to choose from so it’s easy getting exactly what you want.

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 choose between a ready made frame and a custom picture frame you should ask yourself a few questions.

First of all, is it a standard size picture? If it’s a standard size then you’ll have lots of options with ready made frames. Ready made picture frames come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, materials 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 picture that doesn’t quite fit into a ready made frame, you can use a ready made mat insert to frame your picture and give it a custom look without the cost of a custom made frame.

However, as convenient, economical and nice looking as ready made frames are- sometimes you just want a custom 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.