Ready-Made

Ready-Made Frames vs. Custom Frames

With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide whether to opt for a ready-made frame or a custom frame. The right option for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your artwork.

Ready-made or photo frames are a popular choice for those looking for a quick, convenient and easy framing solution. Pre-made and in standard sizes, ready-made frames are at most art supply stores or online retailers, in a variety of styles, colours and materials.  On the other hand, custom frames are made to order, specifically tailored to the size and style of your artwork. They’re completely personalised to your artwork, home décor and personal taste.

Whether a ready-made frame or custom frame is right for you will come down to individual needs. Overall, custom framing provides a premium experience which ensure longevity, quality and total personalisation. Learn more about custom-frames in comparison to ready-made options now.

Difference between ready-made frames and custom-made frames

Size:

When it comes to choosing the right frame for your artwork, size is a crucial factor that can make or break the overall look. Ready-made frames come in a range of set sizes that you’ll have to make work with the dimensions of your artwork or object. As a result, ready-made frames can cause an awkward overhang or gap between the artwork and the frame.

Custom frames, however, are tailored to your specific needs and preferences, promising a perfect fit for your artwork. With a custom frame, you have complete control over the size and proportions so you can choose a frame that not only complements your artwork but also enhances its visual impact.

Materials:

When it comes to material options, custom frames offer endless possibilities in comparison to ready-made frames. Ready-made frames are typically made from inexpensive materials such as plastic or thin metal, which can’t guarantee longevity. On the other hand, our custom frames offer a wide range of high-quality materials to choose from, such as wood, metal and even specialty materials like acrylic.

Through custom framing, you can select the perfect material for your artwork to enhances the overall appearance. Our wooden frames, for example, can add warmth and texture to a painting, while a sleek minimalist frame creates a contemporary and modern look.

Beyond looks, the materials used in custom framing are of a higher quality than inexpensive ready-made styles. More premium materials help to ensure that your artwork or object is protected from wear and tear, sunlight and other environmental factors.

Time:

When it comes to framing projects, time is always a crucial factor. If you're in a rush and need a quick solution, then a ready-made frame may seem like the better option. However, if you have the luxury of time, then a custom frame offers a superior result.

One of the main benefits of custom frames is that they allow you to take your time with the framing process. You can choose the perfect materials, design and size, ensuring that the final product is exactly what you had in mind.

Cost:

While ready-made frames may seem like a more affordable option initially, custom frames can ultimately save you money in the long run. While the cost of a custom frame may be higher than that of a ready-made frame, the difference in quality and durability is significant. Ready-made frames are often made with lower quality materials, which can result in warping, discoloration and damage to your artwork over time.

On the other hand, custom frames are crafted with higher quality materials and designed to fit your specific artwork perfectly. This ensures that your artwork is protected and preserved for years to come. In addition, custom frames offer more design options, allowing you to create a truly unique and personalised look for your artwork.

While the initial cost of a custom frame may be higher, the value and longevity it adds to your artwork can make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run. Investing in a quality custom frame can protect your artwork and save you money on future framing, preservation, and in the worst case, restoration costs.

Look:

When it comes to the look of a frame, custom frames offer a level of personalisation that simply can't be matched by ready-made frames. Ready-made frames are mass-produced, often with a limited selection of styles and colours to choose from. This means that while they may be convenient and affordable, they may not always complement the artwork in the best way possible.

ready-made photo frames

Custom frames, on the other hand, allow for complete control over every aspect of the framing process. From the material used to the style and colour of the frame, everything can be tailored to the specific artwork being framed. This level of customisation can make a huge difference in the final appearance of the artwork, ensuring that it is displayed in the best possible way.

custom picture framing

Is custom framing worth it?

Whether custom framing is worth it for you comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you have a unique piece of artwork or an item that you want to display, custom framing may be the best option to enhance its presentation and protect it from damage.

One of the biggest benefits of custom framing is the ability to choose from a wide variety of materials and styles, which can complement the artwork or item being framed and make it stand out. Custom frames can also be sized to fit the specific dimensions of the artwork or item, which can help to create a more cohesive and polished look.

While custom picture framing may be more expensive than using a ready-made frame, the investment is worth it if the artwork or item has sentimental or financial value. Additionally, custom framing can add a professional touch to any piece and may increase its overall value if you plan to sell it in the future.

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