How to Choose Between a Ready Made Frame and a Custom Picture Frame

Knowing the difference between custom frames and ready made picture frames is important when you’re shopping for frames.  Having a basic understanding of ready made frames and custom picture frames will get you exactly what you want without spending too much money.  So what is the real difference between ready made frames and custom picture frames?

A ready made picture frame is just that- a frame that is ready to be used right out of the box.  Manufacturers of ready made picture frames assemble and package them so all you need to do is open the box, insert your picture and it’s ready to be displayed.

Ready made picture frames come in standard photo sizes. You can find ready made frames for pictures, standard sized art work, small keepsakes or documents, like diplomas. Ready made picture frames come completely assembled in the box. They come with glass, backing, and some hardware for either displaying on a table or hanging on the wall. However, not all ready made frames include both hanging hardware and easel back stands.  If you’re not sure if something is included, check with your frame retailer to make sure you have everything you need for displaying your frame.

There are many different frame retailers that offer ready made frames online and in stores. With so much available you should be able to find exactly what you want.

Custom picture frames, on the other hand, give you more options than ready made frames. Custom picture frames are measured, cut and put together specially for you. If your photo or artwork is not a standard size, or if you need a unique depth or unusual shape, then a custom frame is definitely your answer.  With a custom frame, you can choose the type of protective surface you want, whether glass or acrylic with a UV coating. 

Custom frames allow you to create a look that is your own, from framing material to mats to the layout of your picture or artwork. Some custom framers refer to these frames as “ready made” because they’re all ready to be hung when you get them. However, if they’re hand assembled they’re custom frames not ready made frames.

Which type of picture frame is best?

The answer to that question depends upon what you plan to frame. Original artwork is best suited to a custom picture frame since size sizes are usually non-standard and can vary wildly. A custom picture frame can be made to accomodate almost any dimension and thickness so it’s exceptionally versatile. With custom picture frames you have a lot of flexibility and options to choose from so it’s easy getting exactly what you want.

One thing to consider is that ready made frames are almost always a lot less expensive. Custom frames are created and assembled by hand which adds to the cost of your framing project.

So to choose between a ready made frame and a custom picture frame you should ask yourself a few questions.

Is it a standard picture size? If so, then you’ll have lots of options with ready made frames. Ready made frames are available in a wide range of materials, colors, shapes and sizes. You can find frames in everything from wood and metal to gold leaf, sterling and basic black picture frames. If you’re looking for a nice looking frame without spending a lot, a ready made frame is your best choice.

If you have a picture that doesn’t quite fit into a ready made frame, you can use a ready made mat insert to frame your picture and give it a custom look without the cost of a custom made frame.

However, as convenient, economical and nice looking as ready made frames are- sometimes you just want a custom look for your photo or artwork. If you have a special piece of artwork, whether a standard size or not, you may want the flexibility a custom frame allows in choosing the best way to showcase your piece.

Once you have determined which type of frame is best suited for your needs, you’re ready to start shopping for your frame. No matter what type of picture frame you choose, you’ll now be able to tell the difference between these two types so you can always get exactly what you want.