Whether you’re framing a family photograph, a bold poster, or an original painting, the materials you choose make a lasting difference. But custom framing doesn’t have to break the bank. At Frame2000, we offer flexible framing options for every budget—from high-end gallery displays to affordable DIY décor upgrades.
If you’re looking to frame art that complements your interior design without going over budget, this guide will help you understand the most popular custom framing materials, their benefits, and how to choose the right combination for your needs.
Wood and Metal Frames: Aesthetic Meets Budget
Wood frames offer a classic, warm look and come in a variety of finishes—from rustic to polished. They’re ideal for traditional or antique pieces, fine art, or when you’re aiming for a timeless, high-end style. Real wood options can be more of an investment, but for tighter budgets, engineered or veneer woods provide a similar aesthetic at a lower price.
Metal frames, often made from aluminum, provide a sleek, minimal design perfect for photographs, prints, or modern interiors. They’re generally more affordable than solid wood and offer high durability with a clean finish. Whether framing a landscape or collage, both materials can be tailored to your personal style.
Matting Options: Depth, Color, and Protection
A custom mat adds breathing room between your artwork and the glass while drawing attention to the image. Mats come in a wide range of colors, textures, and thicknesses, and they can drastically change the tone of your piece. A wide white mat, for example, lends a clean, gallery-style look, while bold color mats can add personality or emphasize tones in your print or paintings.
For those on a budget, standard paper mats are a cost-effective choice, while acid-free mats help preserve artwork over time. If you’re framing high-value pieces or archival printmaking work, consider investing in museum-grade materials.
Glazing: Glass vs. Acrylic
Glass is the traditional choice for picture frames and offers a crystal-clear view. It’s also scratch-resistant and easy to clean. However, it can be heavy and may shatter if dropped. Acrylic glazing (sometimes called plexiglass) is a lightweight alternative that’s shatter-resistant and safer for shipping or hanging in high-traffic areas.
To protect your art from UV light, fading, and dust, opt for UV-filtering glass or acrylic. These are available in both budget-friendly and premium options, depending on the level of clarity and protection you want.
Backing Boards and Support
The backing is what holds your artwork securely in place. Foamcore is a lightweight, cost-effective backing material that supports most prints and posters without adding bulk. Acid-free foamcore is best for long-term preservation of delicate art, preventing yellowing and deterioration.
More budget-conscious options may include cardboard or paperboard, but these can allow moisture, dust, or acids to degrade the image over time. For valuable or sentimental pieces, it’s worth upgrading to conservation-quality backing.
Hanging Hardware and Finishing Touches
From wire and D-rings to wall hooks and spacers, the final touches in your frame matter. At Frame2000, every project includes professional mounting, secure hardware, and display-ready finishes—no matter the price point.
Want to do it yourself? We also offer DIY frame art kits that include essential materials like tape, spacers, and hanging instructions, so you can frame confidently at home.
Online Convenience with In-Person Craftsmanship
Services like Framebridge and Simply Framed have made online framing more common, but when it comes to material flexibility and hands-on design help, local framing professionals like Frame2000 offer more control and quality for the same cost—or less.
From uploading your camera images online to visiting our shop with a physical coupon or account credit, our team makes sure your cart is full of custom options that balance aesthetics, protection, and price.
Conclusion
Framing should enhance your art—not limit your options. Whether you’re framing antique pieces, digital prints, or contemporary paintings, the right combination of wood, metal, mats, and glazing can be customized to your exact needs—and your budget.
Get started today with Frame2000 and explore custom framing materials tailored to your space, your style, and your wallet. From affordable upgrades to gallery-worthy finishes, we make art framing simple, beautiful, and accessible.