How much would you charge to frame a 16x20 photo enlargement?
There are a number of factors in framing that influence price, so ultimately to achieve an accurate price quote, you will want to visit one of our stores so a design specialist can discuss the available materials, styles, and techniques and provide you with an exact price. To give you a ballpark range, let's think of an example:
Assuming that 16x20 is the size of the image, the actual size of the frame will usually be somewhat larger, unless the photo is a laminated and mounted print, or a canvas print, either of which are often framed in the style of an oil painting, without mats or glass. If it is just a standard photographic print, let's say you want a mat border of about four inches all the way around, and two mat colors. A double mat is about the minimum you would want to use to provide space between the photo and the glass, although it is common to use three or more layers to produce a very attractive design. This would bring the final frame size to about 24x28, and a double preservation-grade mat, UV-protective clear glass, and the "fitting" (assembly of the framing components with the appropriate backing materials, cleaning the glass, installing the items, and finishing the back with dust cover, bumpers, and a wire hanger) would be right in the neighborhood of $100. This amount, plus the price of the frame, would essentially be your "base" price for framing an item this size in the outlines preservation manner. A custom frame in that size could run anywhere from $40.00 on up to hundreds of dollars for some of the very high-end mouldings. Note as well that you could have special mounting requirements for the photos (depended on whether they are mounted by the photographer, and how), and that you may also want to consider additional design elements such as layered frames, fillets, and fabric-covered mats that could add to the price as well.
I had to make some assumptions to give you that price, so I hope you see that the number of possibilities available with custom framing make it difficult to give you more than a very general idea of the price range without putting together a specific design for you. Please rest assured that we will work very carefully with you to achieve a design that both does your photograph justice, and suits your budget. I encourage you to visit one of our stores to consult with a design specialist. There is no charge for our ideas, and we can help you to find a solution that you will be thrilled with!
