How Can You Bring Down Custom Framing Costs?

So, you have finally decided to frame that stunning photo you happen to buy at the flea market for a cheap price. However, there is no way that you will spend a few hundred bucks so that you can frame the piece. You don’t have to worry because when it comes to picture frames, you can now bring down the costs. Yes, you can still get innovative picture frames that will not break the bank and achieve the results you want for your special piece. 

Probably one of the biggest mistakes of most artists is that they often go for framing as a mere afterthought. Many of them even assume that going to a picture framing store in NYC will only make them shell out more money than what they could afford. What they don’t realize is that their choice of frame can either make or break a photo or work of art. The right frame can make even the cheapest piece look expensive or a wrong frame can make a pricey piece look dull and drab.

Custom framing is exactly what its name suggests. It is custom and it must be equivalent to buying fine furniture pieces. The hardwood and quality moulding used for frames of fine art & Giclee printing in SoHo, NYC is usually imported and in general, only the higher end framers carry a selection of hand carved and real gold leaf frames.

Frames could be made of soft woods, hard woods, polystyrene or MDF or medium density fiberboard. Colors and profiles may look the same when you go for ready made or store bought frames but expect that you will only be getting what you pay for.

If you want to save money, you can go for a smaller or narrower profile but try to avoid MDF or plastic. You can also use a single mat instead of a triple mat complete with spacers. However, you should not skimp on the preservation mounting or choose mat boards which are not of conservation quality. A regular glass is more affordable compared to museum glass but try not to forgo UV or ultraviolet protection.

Avid collectors will expect that the suitable frame styles are used according to the specific art period of the particular framed piece. For instance, the western oil paintings in style of Taos Society of Artists must have a frame appropriate to the period which is a gold leaf and closed corner one. On the other hand, for a modern cowboy painting, you can go for rustic barn wood frame for a lesser price.

If you will frame a series of paintings that will be put up in an exhibition, everything must be consistent. As they assume that the frame is not important at all, many artists tend to bargain shop at this aspect. However, as they do so, little do they know that they may actually be unintentionally reducing their work’s sales potential. As mentioned earlier, a cheap frame might make even the most expensive arts look cheap. The proper and suitable frame can further increase your work’s value.

As far as framing is concerned, you must not just think of your pocket alone. If you plan to display your work for sale or you want it to be the center of attention in your home, always consider your audience and invest in quality workmanship and materials.

Best Ways to Protect and Preserve Your Picture Frames

Photography has developed and advanced a lot over the years. Displaying those taken pictures is common and adding amazing and beautiful frames around it are a must. But the difficult part about all of this is how to protect those picture frames, as to avoid damaging these memories from different reasons. These pictures frames can fade, tear up, scratched or get cracks on the picture.

There are many mistakes that people usually make, which harm/damage the picture frames while moving or displaying. There are many stores in US and especially in New York, which provide a wide range of frame designs which makes your pictures beautiful as well protect and preserve you pictures.

It is a must for people to protect their picture frames from any kind of damage, whether it’s the weather effect or saving it from breaking. Some tips for Protecting and preserving your Picture frames are as:

• Using the acrylic instead of the glass is good for the pictures, as it keeps the air flowing through. The air will reduce any effect of the acid that can be produced in the pictures or artwork over the time. The UV acrylic or Plexiglas is normally made for this purpose.
• Protecting your work with the UV spray on is also very common and easily available in the framing stores. It is also affordable and easy way.
• Your pictures can damage in any weather or environment, whether it’s moist/humid or its direct sun.  The images can fade or get yellow in the direct light of the sun. For this you can use the UV protection.
• If the picture frame is damaged through water or moist weather, it can be difficult to restore it. If the artwork or picture is soaked, it is difficult or impossible to dry it, resulting in damaging the picture.
• It is also possible for the pictures or artwork to be damaged by the bookworms or book lice. It can be detected by the holes in the paper. This problem can be solved with the regular cleaning of the picture frames.

Besides this, there are stores in SoHo and New York that expertise in the fine arts and the Giclée printing, which will use the ink which is fade-resistant. These stores also provide the wide range of innovative frames and UV glass for the picture/artwork frames. These frames are important for the safety of the artwork/photos.

7 Creative Ways To Re purpose An Old Picture Frame

Picture frames protect and preserve your artwork from various natural and human hazards. Till the time, picture frames are enhancing the overall look of your artwork it is worthy but even once it gets old it's worth much more than a trash. If you have grown tired of looking at the same picture frame, you can always get the new frame which is even more elegant and stylish. However there is no need to throw away your old picture frames, they can still be put to various uses. 

You can make several beautiful and unique objects from your old picture frames. Just put in a little effort and you can transform your old photo frame into an interesting thing which you would surely love. Some of the attractive and interesting things which can be made from your old picture frame are given below.

1. Magnetic Scrabble Board

People who have a knack for interior design can turn their photo frame into a scrabble board. Just buy sets of magnetic scrabble tiles and give your picture frame the look you want. The newly built scrabble board will attract the attention of the viewers, thus making your efforts fruitful. 

2. Chalkboard

Small but very useful item when it comes to changing the overall appearance of the photo frame. You can write small tasks on the chalkboards to remember it later. You friends, relatives, colleagues and employees can write warm and welcoming messages to make you feel special.

3. Towel Holder

One of the most interesting use of old photo frame is like the towel holder. Nothing will satisfy you more than the feeling that you have turned a throw-away picture frame into a beautiful towel holder. You can use it for holding bath towels when it has become obsolete with its design and style.

4. Chess Board

Make it a reason to engage yourself with your favourite game. Just paint the frame into boxes and catch hold your buddy and begin your game of chess. You can hang your chess board on the wall and finish it later as per your convenience.

5. Plant Holder

What can be more exciting than having different beautiful plants around you. You can use your old photo frames as a simple tray to put your plant on it or you can use it to hang a plant on the wall. Your old picture frame can improve your life by adding happy and healthy plant around you.

If you are searching for a reliable, experienced and professional picture framer in New York, PaintboxNolita should be your choice. It is a one-stop solution to all your picture framing needs. With its years of experience in this field, it will always guide you to select the best picture frame for your artwork. It has wide range of picture frames made of various high-quality material available at reasonable rates. Select your frame and give your artwork the appreciation it always deserved.

Top 4 Reasons Why You Should Frame Your Photos

Nothing mesmerises you more than photos of your family and loved ones. You want to relive those beautiful moments again and again through your pictures. There will be so many special moments in your life which you want to memorise. Once in a lifetime events like wedding, graduation day, baby first step and many more are something which have a special place in your heart. You just want to save these moments permanently by framing your photos in the most beautiful picture frame.

Since your moments are captured by the pictures, it should be saved for years. Picture frames can help you preserve and protect your pictures for years. Listed below are the top 4 reasons why you should consider framing your pictures.

1. Protecting your Artwork:- Do you want your upcoming generation to see your wedding photos? There are many moments in your life which you want to pass on to your forthcoming generation. Picture frame can preserve and protect your photo so that you can cherish it for many years. If you have a special artwork which is very valuable for you, you can frame it with acid-free mats and UV protection glass so that it can never be damaged. Choose the right picture frame made up of right kind of material so that you can live with your memories forever.

2. Adding beauty to your walls:- A beautiful picture frame can add beauty to your home. Select a frame color and design which goes well with the ambience of your room. Do not go for a picture frame which looks completely out of sync with the surrounding. Selecting a perfect picture frame will not only protect your artwork but will also make a statement on your walls. Your walls will appear more appealing and attractive to your guests.

3. Making it Special:- Though a photo itself is unique and expresses many emotions, picture frame makes it even more special. By choosing the perfect color, texture, style and design, you can attract more viewers towards your photo. Photo frame can add to the feel and expression which your picture is displaying. Go for the most appropriate photo frame which not only protect your artwork but also adds beauty to it.

4. Gifting it to others:- You can gift a beautiful picture frame to your loved ones which has some of the best moments of their life. Nothing makes a better gift than a perfect picture frame having a picture which says a lot about the receiver. You can be creative and put your thoughts and emotions in the frame. Your gift will surely stand out among the others because it has something which cannot be expressed in words.

Paintbox Nolita offers you the latest techniques, designs and products in the picture framing industry. Select the best picture frame not on the basis of price but on the basis of the effect it will produce on your artwork. It has a wide range of designs and materials to choose from to fit any occasion. Your decision to select a picture frame from here for your artwork will always be cherished by you. Go for it and give yourself one more reason to smile.

Top 5 Reasons Why Picture Frame is a Perfect Gift

A picture frame can be a perfect gift for any occasion as it has unique ability to showcase any emotion in the most glorified way. As you know that a picture says a thousand words and a good picture frame can capture those beautiful moments for years to follow. Be it any occasion, picture frame will always be a perfect gift on account of its ability to help the receiver cherish his moments forever.

There are different kinds of picture frames with innumerable color, shape and design. You can select the one which best suits your purpose. The main reasons why picture frames serve as the best gift for your receiver are listed below.

1. Flexible Price option available

As said above, there are many options available in picture frames, price will not be a problem. Picture frame comes in many varieties depending on the design and material it is made of. You can shop cleverly and choose a frame which looks elegant and stylish yet easy on your pockets. Select the right picture frame which goes in tune with the occasion.

2. One for every occasion

Picture frames serve the purpose of a perfect gift for any occasion. Be it wedding or baby shower, it fits the purpose completely. Even Though it may appear simple, it looks nice and elegant in its approach. You will always find a design which will fit the occasion, you just have to find the right one for you. Pick one according to the situation and it will never let you down.

3. Easy Availability

Easy availability is another reason why picture frames have become a perfect gift for your near and dear ones. You can buy them from any physical shops near your house or you can order them from various online stores. As it is easily available, you do not have to schedule much of your time towards shopping them. Get them easily and create a resounding effect on the receiver.

4. Plenty of Choices

The best part about picture frames is the wide range of choice it offers. Whatever you have in your mind be it minimalist, fun, elegant, modern or any other design, you will get them all. With so many options available, you will be in a much better position to choose your frame according to your wish. Make sure that you select a photo frame which suits the personality of the receiver and occasion which you are going to attend.

5. Utility as a gift

The utility of a picture frame is undoubtedly one thing which makes it a perfect choice for gift. Beside helping your receiver to frame their special moments, it also helps in protecting the artwork. Right picture frame made of quality material can help in preserving and protecting your valuable artwork. Gift the right picture frame to help your receiver immortalize their pictures.

Paintbox Nolita offers you the latest techniques, designs and products in the picture framing industry. Select the best picture frame not on the basis of price but on the basis of the effect it will produce on your artwork. It has a wide range of designs and materials to choose from to fit any occasion. Your decision to select a picture frame from here as a gift for your beloved ones will always be cherished by them. Go for it and give them one more reason to smile.

A good frame is your artwork's best friend

It is a known fact that picture frame is the presentation for your artwork. As we know that a good presentation can add more weight age to your subject while a bad one can ruin it completely. So this itself states the importance of right picture frame for your artwork. Selecting the right design for picture frame is not a rocket science but has to be done wisely.
 

A good picture frame can add more attraction and beauty to your already special artwork. The most intangible factor is the imagination and creativity which can be done with your picture frame. Though intangible, this can bring the differentiating  difference between a casual picture frame and a special one. Some of the factors that should be kept in mind before finalizing the picture frame are:

Pick your Color
The most common and important factor is choosing the right color-combination between your artwork and your picture frame. This is the biggest blunder which people commit and dampen the look of the artwork. You should never choose a color which will take away visual interest from the art itself. While good framing design can to the overall presentation, it should not outshine the artwork.
Selecting the right color for your picture frame whether it is tropical colors, black and white or any other color, will have an impact on your artwork. Mat selection is equally important as it provides the visual space in which your art will be displayed. The intensity of the mat color should be the dominant color of the artwork.

Go for the right Scale
Your artwork and your picture frame surrounding it should never be in out of proportion with one another. Proper scaling is very important to project your artwork in the best possible way. Artwork varies from each other with a lot of delicate details to the image portrayed in it. The scale and width of the picture frame and mat should match the visual space of the artwork. Different artwork should be scaled differently depending on their size, visual ability and art within it.

Maintain a decent Style
The factor which can really help bring out a different look and feel for your artwork is the stylish picture frame. Depending on the various aspects of the artwork like importance, kind or monetary value, proper styling can be done. The overall feel and style of your artwork helps in deciding the kind picture frame it will go along with. You can mix different styles in order to come with something which is both unique and attractive.
 

Choose the Textures and Patterns wisely
The texture of your picture frame and the kind of design pattern you have selected also helps improving the look of your artwork. Different mats with different texture and pattern can either make your artwork more beautiful or the otherwise. Patterns should be given importance so that it creates the effect it should. Right texture and pattern of your picture frame can attracts more viewers to your artwork, making it even more special.

After knowing everything about the kind of impact a good picture frame can create on your artwork, it's time to search for someone who can bring your imagination live. A good and professional picture framer will help you with all the small details that go into picture framing. They have years of experience and expertise to carry out their work. Picture framers at Paintbox Nolita  provide  you with latest techniques, designs and products in the picture framing industry. Come make your artwork even more special with us because it deserves it.

Maintaining Your Pictures – Certain Tricks and Tips

Few data types are more dear to us – and that are our memories, and everyone wants to safeguard them. The picture frames in your home do more than just keep old photographs. The images preserved in them reflects the happier times from many different phases of our life. They can be with friends, family, travel or even your professional accomplishments. Hanging up these pictures up on the wall can ensure that memories never fade away.

 

Now, let's dive into the exciting world of filling and maintaining your pictures.

Preserving Paper Photographs

• The photos should be stored at 68°F and in 30-50% relative humidity.
• It would be good if you keep your photos in a cool place in your house, like a closet in the dark.
• Pick archival quality boxes for storing them.
• Keep the negatives separate from the printed photographs.

Preserving Printed Photographs

• Keep at a constant moderate or cool temperatures like 65 – 70°F and in moderate 30-50% relative humidities.
• At home, you should store your photographs in the coolest and dry spot in your home.
• Dampness should be avoided as it causes photos to stick together, and promotes mold growth

Preserving using right photo albums

• You can use Plastic Pocket pages which  need no adhesive to secure the photo.
• Paper Pages is another option  which can secure your pictures with photo corners or adhesives.
• Use paper pages with plastic covers as it offers more protection – from fingerprints, accidental spills, and by preventing the photos from sticking in damp conditions.

Picture Frames – The reservoir of your memorable moments

As we discussed earlier, every picture frame enchants a story from within. Then how can we avoid the master points to keep in mind while using them.

• Dusty frames might end up looking dull out of place and quite detracting.
• Do not dust the picture frame while it is on the wall.
• Remove the picture from the wall, put it on a table, clean it with a feather duster or linen cloth. Be careful with the edges though.
• Dusting the frames once in a week is recommended to keep it last long.
• Use a Q tip to thoroughly clean the frame to a much better degree. Since the Q-tip is most likely to dig out hard to reach dust, it could be the best simple tool in getting a frame look sharp and sparkling.
• Polish the frames with quality glass cleaner.
• Before hanging your frames back to the wall, make sure the surrounding area is cleaned and away from dust.

Once it is placed, it is safe and secure until the next time you clean your frames. Follow these tips and maintain your memories life long. With a little bit of knowledge, you will be on your way to preserve your pictures.

Three important aspect to consider while selecting frames online

In today’s digital age just about anything can be framed however, many people are under the impression that framing is an arduous task and requires professional help at every step of the way. While it is true that professional help should be taken, when looking to frame a costly artwork or heirloom, but getting professionals to frame your every artwork can soon become cumbersome and costly task.

There is no dearth of availability of frames online. With inline websites, you can just about frame anything today:  photographs, fabric, papyrus, paintings in the comfort of your living room. However certain consideration should be taken when choosing frames online. Given below are 3 important aspect to consider while selecting frames online:

Molding Size

There are many mold designs and shapes available. Choosing the correct width is important. Molding size is normally chosen relative to the frame, and can differ, if frame design changes.

A too wide molding can distract attention from the artwork and too thin a molding can provide a week support to the frame and can fall under heavy load.

Frame widths are generally of three types
Thin size: Thin size mold is no more than half an inch and is best suited for frames which are not any larger than 14in x 16in.
Medium size: They are between 1” and 2” thick. These can also hold 2 or 3 v-nails for hanging purpose and can frame up-to the size of 22” x 24”
Large Sized Molding: These molding are above 3” or thicker and can hold frames larger than than 22” x 24”. So based on frame size you can order appropriate mold online.

Color Choice

Users are spoilt for color choices. Colors range from monochromes to vibrant color. While choosing color for frame, it should be kept in mind that the frame color should not dominate the artwork. Browns and black are normally safe color for a frame. But based on the Theme of the artwork and environment the right color should be chosen. The place where the frame is going to be hung directly dictates the frame color so as to compliment the other items in the room. So choose a color which compliments the artwork and surrounding and if in doubt go for monochrome color.

Mat Board

Matting not only provides aesthetic look and feel to the frame but has functional use as well.

It provides spacing between the art and glass. This is important as it prevents color peeling overtime and also helps in reducing humidity inside the frame. There is no dearth of choice in Mat boards these days. They come in various textures and colors, and you should always consult a professional while picking out these mats. As a rule of thumb, when in doubt, go for a thicker border. Choosing a thin mat is the most common mistakes made while custom picture framing. A good quality Mat above 1” should do the trick.

So by keeping these 3 tips in mind you can assure yourself that you choose the right looking frame for your picture, which complements and accentuates your artwork beauty and also at the best price.

Frame designs for your pictures framing

Finding a frame design for your precious photo in today’s age is not such an arduous task. Good quality frames not only make your picture look beautiful but also helps in keeping the photos fresh for long. Almost anything can be framed- pictures, oil paintings, fabric and many more. 

Today you can buy frames at two different places- brick and mortar stores or online stores. Brick and Mortar stores is a place where you can go and physically see, test and choose your frames whereas online stores have the possibility of providing much wider  range of frames to choose from . 

Frames can be found in various forms such as 

General photo frames: They are broad platform which have limitless creativity possibility. All you need is imagination and a little bit of creativity to accomplish stunning looking results. Below are some general photo frames for reference.

Photo Frames

Scenery Frames: Use these frames to create beautiful and real looking sceneries. Given below are few sample which you can consider for scenery frames.

Scenery Frames

Seasonable Frame: They represent the major four seasons along with all type season related designs. Given below are few examples

Seasonable Frames - PaintboxNolita

Other types of Frames: These frames are non-stream photo frames and provide abstract representation of your picture.

Custom Picture Frames

Different frame design help you make your photos represented in different styles. Designs of frame are important for overall look and feel of the picture. What should also be taken into consideration is the amount of protection frame gives to the picture. This is important in order to keep the picture fresh for long 

However there are few considerations that you should always keep in mind before buying a frame 

Size of the Molding: Choosing Molding width is key to framing. Width of frames should be relative to frame size and if they are too wide then it would distract attention from pictures. 

Also, if they are too thin, it might not be in a position to sustain the weight of the glass and the entire frame

• Thin Size: This is around an inch thick and is suitable for frames not larger then 14in x 16.
• Medium size: They are between 1” and 2” thick and are good for 22” x 24” frames
• Large Sized Molding : This would be around 3” or thicker and are good for frames above 22” x 24”

Color: There are many types of colors in molding and it is important that you choose a color that compliments your pictures as well as surrounding it is being placed in. Color of molding is important because it decides whether the focus is drawn towards the picture or is diverted by color of molding 

Mat Board: Mat boards are optional and highly recommended. Mats provides stability, protection and also flare to your frame. Mat provides proper spacing between your photo and protective glass. By having space between glass and photo, the photo is protected from sticking onto the frame which prevents color peeling off from it. Besides practical use, Mat also provides many aesthetic benefits. You can use mats to highlight your photos and even match it to your decor