DIY framing for photos and prints

[LDoon]

I have 5 poster prints that I'd like to frame in order to protect for the next several years.  I'm looking for framing, covers, and matting for each one.  The posters vary in size from 2'x3' to 3'x5'.  With these large sizes, I can't find frames other than at custom frame shops.  But the cost would be $100-$200+ for each poster.

Does anyone have suggestions or advice for either DIY framing, finding a better deal, or an alternative suggestions?

Thanks,
LDoon

[ToeInTheWater]

search on "sectional frames" with the length you need.  these are DIY kits.  each should contain 2 lengths (so you need to buy 2 kits - one for height, one for width).  should be much cheaper than custom frame shops.  prob not as fancy, but for posters, that may be better

for example (disclaimer, i've never ordered from here)
http://www.frameusa.com/u-frame-kit-i-picture-frames


24x36 would cost ~$24 + shipping ($10 to indiana)

might try ebay as well

b

[Frankies Girl]

If you want good quality custom framing with mats and glass for that sizing, you can always get the coupons from Michaels or Hobby Lobby. They almost always have 50% off framing. I know how to cut mats and mount pictures and all, but I still had them done at one of those for the large stuff as it looked nicer to me using wooden frames with glass/plexi.

They also should both carry regular poster frames with either glass or plexi in their standard framing area (not custom) for under $50 depending on their selection you could fine some nice and cheap options, but you won't get a choice on mats or the like. Both stores do occasionally have coupons for 15-20% off on non sale items.

I had two vintage movie posters that were around 3x5 feet framed with slightly ornate 4 inch wide black wood, under glass and wire for hanging attached done for about $100 each if I'm remembering correctly. I had another vintage poster that was odd sized (like 2x8 feet) that they couldn't do in glass and did plexi instead) for about $125. My husband and I are both movie buffs, and we wanted them to look like artwork and to protect the posters so the extra cost for the custom work was worth it to us.

If you've never cut mats yourself, that can be hard to get right. There are mat cutting knives available at art stores or stores that do framing like the ones I mentioned. I didn't want mats for the posters as that does add to the sizing of the frame (and cost) and to me, mats work best with fine art painting/illustration - not posters.

You can also check out places like Ikea; they will have some cheaper frame options in thin metal strips that might be able to be cut down with some decently sharp scissors or an exacto knife.

[Matt K]

When it comes to framing, one of the things you need to consider is how long do you want your artwork to last for? Your back board and matting are critical to this, and the glass/plexiglass has an effect.

Most wood/paper products are not ph neutral and will damage prints and posters over time. If you use bristol board or even particle board for your backing material your print will disclour over time. Same if you use cheap matting (the stuff that comes in $5 ikea frames).

Non-acidic or 'archival' matting material is fairly cheap and easy to get if you look for it (lots of framing supply places online). For cutting your matte and backing, a metal ruler and exacto/hobby knife works just fine. I've found Michael's to be a huge rip off on both of these. I can get archival 4x matte board for $10 a sheet (24"x36") at the local art supply store, but it is $15 at Michael's, and I can get a 5 pack of exact blades for $2.50 at Staples, but Michael's cost $10 for a two pack. Michael's prices around here seem based around everyone always having a 40% off coupon.

Similarly, you want a plexiglass or glass that will stop UV (ideally while still making your image 'pop', cheap plexi-glass can cut down on the contrast in your poster/print). Framing supply places are a good cheap source, but for even less look at glass-art stores (places that specialize in stained glass and that sort of thing).

Toeinthewater's suggestion of finding an online framing supplier and buying premade kits is probably the easiest method and certainly seems economical.

[nereo]

I've used redimat as a great source for buying both stock and custom mat sizes.  As Matt K said the quality of your mat matters a lot in the long run.  You can get archival mats there, as well as archival backing, supplies etc (although I think they ahve a $100 minimum order, or at least they used to). (www.redimat.com)
For framing, if you have a miter saw/box it's fairly easy to cut your own frames.  If you have a router and some basic skills you can make anything from minimalistic to extra-fancy really easily.  Making a picture frame is a typical beginner's project when learning to use a router. here's a DIY video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmyytuR-iVE  Steve Ramsey's a bit different, but funny.

[corasmith]

Hi LDoon,

I too love framing all the ancient posters and memories too... Anyway i generally do it myself but if you want to spend a few bucks you can always have a look at arttoframe as I often get fantastic ideas from this site to make my place look trendy & the best part is these guys are cheap too :)
  Here are a few pictures i got framed from this company! I love it have a look:




Hope you get what you are looking for :) GOOD LUCK!