Custom Framing ($$$$)
How/What/Where?
Local Frame Shop
Online services such as Simply Framed, FrameBridge or American Frame
Pros:
• Fully Customizable
• Convenient
• Ready to hang
• Archival quality provides maximum protection of artwork
Cons:
• Expensive
My Recommendation:
Simply Framed or Custom Framing on this site.
Semi-Custom Framing ($$$)
How/What/Where?
Online service that allows you to 'build your frame', and then sends you the pieces to assemble it. This is how I custom frame pieces in my own home.
Pros:
• Fully Customizable
• About half the price of full custom framing
• Archival quality provides maximum protection of artwork
Cons:
• Still somewhat expensive
• Mounting and assembling required
My Recommendation:
American Frame
*These mounting strips will allow you to mount the artwork without putting adhesive on the actual piece. Essential.
Ready-Made Standard Frames ($$)
How/What/Where?
Big box Stores like Target and Michael's or online via Amazon, etc. I frame many smaller works in my home using ready-made frames. Be aware that the mat opening of pre-made frames are often 1/2 inch smaller than the advertised mat opening. So, for instance, if the mat opening is listed as 11x14, then the opening will actually be 10.5x13.5 inches.
Pros:
• Affordable
• Convenient
• Relatively easy to mount and hang
Cons:
• Not customizable
• Low-quality materials may not protect artwork over the long-term
• Few decent options for larger sizes
My Recommendations:
These black gallery frames from Target - 11x14 or 11x17 mat opening
These gold gallery frames from Target - 11x14 or 11x17 mat opening
These natural gallery frames from Target - 11x14 mat opening
*These mounting strips will allow you to mount the artwork without putting adhesive on the actual piece.
Wooden Magnetic Hangers ($)
How/What/Where?
I'm a fan of these simple wooden hangers on Amazon because I'm constantly switching out pieces. I've even hung several pieces together vertically for a neat visual effect. However, they won't protect your work at all, as the artwork is exposed to the open air. If you go this route, I'd recommend hanging in low-moisture, low-light areas and out of the reach of children or pets.
Pros:
• Affordable
• Convenient
• Available in many sizes
• Extremely easy to mount and hang
Cons:
• Will NOT protect artwork (art is completely exposed to open air)
My Recommendation:
These hangers have very strong magnets, lots of sizes, and come in packs of two on Amazon.