Difference between custom picture frames and readymade picture frames

You have taken your best picture, and are now wondering which type of frame will bets suit and enhance your precious picture. In broad sense there are two types of frames; Readymade and Custom Made frames, and knowing the difference between these two is the most common question that customers have to tackle when they decide to go for framing. Given below is the difference between custom picture frames and readymade frames.

Readymade Frame

First thing we need to understand about readymade frame is that they are mass produced and come in ready to use standard sizes (e.g. 4 x 6, 8 x 10, or 16 x 20). There is almost no flexibility in changing any aspect of the frame and you get what you buy from the store. Best thing about readymade frame is that they are easily available at your nearby store and are made in various materials, such as plastic, acrylic including wood and metal. Readymade frames are also inexpensive as they are created in bulk and often come with low glazing and backing option. With readymade frames all you to do is take a picture and hang it over a wall and requires minimal labor and material cost.



Custom Picture Frames

In custom frame each and every component of the frame is handpicked to suit each aspect of your artwork. The creation of custom frame starts with choosing the frame molding, this can be wood or metal and extends to choosing matting, glazing, backing and other hardware. Glazing are of various type with non-glare and ultra-violet protection properties. Backing material are available in standard, acid free material. Mats are of various colors and come in various fabrics as well to suit your artwork.
So as you see custom frame provides flexibility to choose in every aspect of frames and help provide truly distinctive look to your artwork. It is best to take advice of professional framers when going for custom frames.



So which frame is best for you?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The frame that you choose completely depends on the artwork to be framed in question and your budget.  For some, readymade project will be just fine while in other cases more expensive custom made frame will be suitable.

As a rule of thumb ready-made frame should be used when the photograph can be cut to standard size and is not too precious. Such examples are digital photograph or posters. They might have high sentimental value but they can be reprinted at click of mouse.

Custom picture frame are best to preserve family heirloom and irreplaceable artwork and has the flexibility to choose high quality such as acid free materials that can preserve the artwork for decades .
Ultimately the frame you choose should be based on your budget, pictures value (monetarily and emotional both) with proper consideration being given to the place where you are going to hang it.

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