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Finding FRAMES for Sparkling Dawg Design’s Posters
November 20, 2008
Thanks to Terry G., a recent poster customer, for inquiring about where to find 12 by 18 frames. That reminded me to post some links for Web sites that carry that frame size. I have not actually ordered the frames myself, so I hope to hear from those who have either used the resources below or have found other sources for 12 by 18 frames.
UPDATE: 12/3/08 – Terry reports success with frames from Amazon. “The frames arrived yesterday in perfect condition and the posters look great in them. I went through Amazon and am really pleased. ” Terry’s reward for this helpful information is a free poster from the Dawg!
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Here are some online stores that sell 12″ by 18″ frames:
Amazon.com has 12 by 18″ frames size at $16.95 per frame, or three for $38.85. They offer three color/materials choices.
FrameDestination.com offers 12 by 18 frames at $18.49 per frame in a nice, simple, black metal, with quantity discounts (e.g. $16.64 each when you buy 4).
At the higher end ($53.95), but still less than custom framing, the Canadian company Vistek.ca sells an 18 by 24 frame with a pre-cut mat that is 12 by 18.
I recognize that 12 by 18 is a somewhat awkward size. When I first printed the posters, the printer advised me to use this size so I could “gang” the posters; i.e., put 4 posters on one printing press sheet. Printing this way really helped me keep the cost of the posters down. But it might have been better for the customer if I had gone with the more readily available frame size of 11 by 17, even though the poster price would have been more. When I am ready to reprint, or when I create new posters, I will change the dimensions.
Custom framing – I have had posters framed in very simple and very nice custom wood frames by my local frame shop, but I usually get posters framed in bulk for better pricing. If you go this route, you can get archival quality backings or mats and glass with ultraviolet protection, but be prepared to spend $65 or more for each. I’m a staunch “buy local” advocate, so if you can afford custom framing and you have a good frame shop in your area, please use them! The $65 figure is just a rough idea of cost. Here in Livingston, all of my framing is done by The Frame Garden, the best I have ever used anywhere. (110 E. Callender Street, Livingston, MT 59047, Phone: 406.222.5122.)
Off-the-shelf frames include glass that does not always have ultraviolet protection, but the posters are printed in ink that should stay color-fast for decades. All the same, with off-the-shelf frames, be careful about placing the posters in a spot that gets direct sunlight for much of the time. Alternatively, get an off-the-shelf frame and have your local frame shop or glazier cut you a piece of glass with ultraviolet protection.
Lynn
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