Framing Your Print

**If custom framing from a local shop is your preference, then you may disregard the following information as it pertains to those who wish to frame the print themselves. 

So being that we now live in an internet world, and you've placed your print order through my website, I like to give recommendations of how to buy the perfect frame online. Of course you may want to shop local stores near you such as Michaels or Hobby Lobby which have some excellent choices. However I want to make sure you are provided with all information you need to make the best decision for you.

First things first, you need to know the exact specifics of your print. 

Paper size: 13x19"

Image size: 12x18"

This means that you need to have a frame equal to or larger than 13x19". If you wish to have a frame with a mat, make sure the OPENING is 12x18" and the actual frame is 13x19" or larger (for example, 16x20" frame matted to a 12x18" opening).

A 12x18" opening in the mat is what I design these specific prints for. Now, I should say that your print image is actually a tad smaller than 12x18". This is so that there is a small amount of white border exposed around the edge so that you can see my actual signature and print number through the matboard.

Okay, so lets run through the options...

Frame with a mat

A frame with a mat is a nice, elegant way to display a print and there are several great options online.

The first way you might have luck finding a nice matted frame is by searching "12x18 frame with mat" on Amazon or Google. Sites like Amazon have decent selections of frames from various online retailers. Here is a great one that I've found:

https://www.amazon.com/18x24-Black-Picture-Frame-Barnwood/dp/B0763VC1TP?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_11510581011

 

Other Websites

Michaels.com

Another site with a few good options is Michaels. I've found a frame with 12x18" mat opening here:

http://www.michaels.com/black-frame-with-mat-lifestyles-by-studio-decor/10178660.html

Walmart.com - 

I only found one example on this website, but it's sold by wayfair and looks to be nice. It also has a 12x18" mat opening:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/16x24-Wide-Flat-Black-Frame-With-Mat-For-12x18-Image/55276758

Arttoframe.com - 

Arttoframe has a pretty decent selection and you can customize just about anything. Just enter the 12x18" picture dimensions in the search bar and check the "Frame + single mat or double mat" box on the left to browse the frames available.

See screenshot below:

Once you select a frame, you'll be taken to a page like this:

On this page, you can see that your opening is 12x18" and the frame is larger than 13x19". You can choose the color of mat you would like and even add a double mat by checking the "bottom mat" option. You can also choose the type of glass it comes with and change the style of frame all from this same page. Backing and hanging hardware is included with each frame.

Check it out: https://www.arttoframe.com/search/single-mat/18x12


Frame without mat

You could also choose a frame without a mat and let the white border I leave on the print show which can also look nice. If you choose a frame without a mat, make sure it is EXACTLY 13x19"! 

I have found an example of a 13x19" frame below from Michaels.com:

http://www.michaels.com/studio-decor-home-collection-flat-frame-espresso/10320348.html

Well I hoped this help clear up any confusion around framing your print. These are just a few examples I know of off hand. I know there are other websites like arttoframe that offer custom framing for affordable prices that might be worth checking out. A simple google search is all you need to find anything you are looking for. 

Also worth noting is that local places like Michaels or Hobby Lobby offer custom framing at relatively affordable costs. They always have a 60% off deal going on or something similar as well.

Of course if you have any additional questions, please be sure to send me and email and I'll be happy to help!

Thanks again for your support,

Chuck Black