FAQs
How long does it take?
Our normal production time is 5 to 10 business days depending on the selection of materials. But, if you need the project done in an hour and we have the man power and materials available, we will make our best effort to make your deadline. Handcrafted and gilded frames require 4-6 weeks for delivery.
How much does it cost?
The cost of the frame has many variables. Frame selection, type of glass and size predicate the price. Because of our wide variety, we are positioned to fit anyone’s budget and style.
What type of glass should I use?
A variety of glass and acrylic selections are now available. Regular glass and Plexiglass are the most cost effective. Museum Glass and Optium Plexi provide the ultimate UV protection and crystal clarity – almost invisible! Contact one of our designers to discuss the perfect selection for your artwork.
What is the appropriate mat size?
There is no right or wrong rule for the selection of a mat size. But there are a few guidelines that can be followed:
- If the art is small, a 1-3”mat is appropriate
- If the art is medium,a 2-4”mat is appropriate
- If the art is large, a 4-6” mat is appropriate
***Please note that the mat size is also determined by the frame size. Usually the two are not the same in width or the design may appear banded.
How can I preserve my artwork?
Always use 100% rag mats, archival backing and glazing with UV protection. Everything within the chamber of the frame must be acid-free.
How to hang a picture?
If hanging with wire, find your placement and mark the top of the frame on the wall with a pencil. (If you don’t want to put pencil marks on your wall, you can use a low adhesive tape. Place the tape on the wall and make your mark.) From the back of the picture frame, measure from the top down to the wire. Place your hook at this position on the wall. Hooks come in different sizes in proportion to the weight – 30lbs, 50lbs, 75lbs, 100lbs.
Hooks are now made to support the weight of picture frames without finding studs in the wall.
If you want your frames to be flush against the wall, use mirror hooks (D rings on each side of the frame). Find your position on the wall. Mark the wall behind the left D ring and find the distance from your mark to the ceiling. Call this mark X. Measure between the center of the two D rings and call this measurement Y. From your original mark on the wall, measure to the right and make a mark at Y distance. From there, measure up to the ceiling and find the point where it equals the X measurement – this could be up or down. Put one hook into the wall on your left mark and one hook into the wall on your right mark. Measuring will take longer but it’s worth it. The picture will not move if bumped.
You can also use Z-BAR. This is a metal rail that’s put on the top rear of the frame. It hooks into another piece that is attached to the wall. Mirror hooks and Z-Bar are good to use with heavier pieces.
How to size a mirror?
When trying to size a mirror, start with a large piece of paper. Craft paper works well. Cut the paper to the approximate outside dimension you think you want and hang it on the wall with low adhesive tape. Set back and envision your mirror. If too big, cut some of the paper off. Let us know what the outsize dimension is and what type of mirror you want – plain, beveled, antiqued. Pick out your frame and we can do the rest. You may check out frame samples on approval to look at in your home for 48 hours.
How to arrange a photo wall?
How long is your space? How many pictures do you want to hang? Are you planning on adding to the wall in the future? We can help you determine the best answers to these questions.
How to earthquake proof your artwork?
Security hangers are one of the best ways to earthquake proof your artwork. The wall would have to come down before the artwork would fall. Also, think about using Plexiglass instead of glass. Plexiglass will crack, but glass will shatter.
Can you provide environmentally friendly framing?
We have established a partnership with several vendors that promote forest-friendly products. They provide wood from sustainable forests that are eco-conscious. We have the ability to supply raw wood frames to clients who want to create their own finishes.
How long will UV plexiglass maintain its filtering properties?
UV protection should last 10-20 years. But, just as you need to re-apply sunscreen when in the sun, UV protection on your art will reach a maximum if exposed to intense light for long periods of time. Fluorescent and iridescent light can also harm artwork. We suggest that you keep all artwork out of direct sunlight. If you think that your artwork may be fading, bring it in to L. A. Art Exchange for a free conservation analysis.