Have any of you done custom framing online? DH and I got some artwork when we were in Asia that we want to have framed so we went into Michaels today and for 2 pieces that are 14 x 14 they are asking $178 each! And that's $100 off their normal prices! That's with almost plain black frames, 2 mats, and regular glass...so now I'm trying to figure out other options...because that seems pretty ridiculous when we only paid like $30 for the artwork!

I know that our base has a frame shop but they're only open 10am-5pm M-F and I'm working during that time. Any other suggestions?

DH ordered a custom frame online for an odd-sized piece of artwork a couple of years ago. We didn't get a mat or anything, though. Framesbymail was the site. They've got ready made frames for standard sized stuff, or you can get a custom frame for odd sized stuff, and they do mats as well.

You might also want to try checking your local phone book and see if there are any frame shops in your area. We've had really good luck with a local shop, too. We were quoted $400 to frame and mat one print at Michaels (on "sale"), and were able to have 4 of our wedding photos, plus that print matted and framed at a local shop for under that. The turnaround time might well be quicker than Michael's, too.

I'm probably responding too late, but as a former framer myself, I feel compelled...

Michael's is a complete rip off. Even at 50% off, their prices are ridiculous.

I definitely wouldn't recommend getting something framed over the internet.

I think going to a local shop is the best advice. And not only that I would price shop at a few different ones. Go in and get quotes for exactly what you're having framed for exactly how you want it framed... and don't be shy about letting them know you're shopping around. Nine times out of ten, they'll bend over backwards to get your business. We always did.

And just be warned... having anything done custom isn't cheap, and framing is no exception. There's a lot of labor involved and specialized materials. I definitely recommend paying extra for the archival materials (acid-free matting and UV glass) if you're framing something of value. But if you just want to get it on the wall, make sure your framer knows you're ok with the non-archival stuff, so they don't give you a higher quote than is neccesary.