Framing your piece

Art purchased through www.russellrichards.com comes matted with 100% acid free, white archival-quality mat and acid-free foamcore. Mats are 2" in all dimensions (top, bottom, left, and right). Dimensions listed are outer dimensions of mat. Pieces under 24 x 24" are shrink-wrapped for protection (my shrink-wrap machine doesn't accommodate pieces larger than 24 x 24"). Shrink-wrapped art may be displayed as-is, though many people prefer to have their prints framed.

Most art or craft stores sell metal picture frame parts, for frames that you can construct yourself, in a variety of colors and styles. They come in increments of an inch, so you can easily make a frame any height or width. My mats are always cut to inch dimensions (in other words, no ½" or ¼" increments), so frame parts are readily available for them. Usually the only tool required is a flat-head screwdriver.

I would suggest mounting the prints behind glass or plexiglass. Both can be cut for you cheaply and quickly at your local hardware store or framing shop. Plexiglass does not shatter like glass, but is easily scratched. Glass does not readily scratch, but can be broken easily. Both look great, but I would recommend plexiglass for larger pieces or pieces you intend to ship through the mail.

If you want a wooden frame, you will likely have to go to a framing shop or art store and have them make one for you. The advantage to that is the wide variety of frame styles that are available, if you want a mat of a different color or size, or if you just don't want to make a frame yourself. Bring the art with you when you go to the framing shop, and they will be happy to help you make a good decision for framing your piece. Unless you really have your heart set on an ornamental frame, I believe that a simple frame design is usually best!

To return to www.russellrichards.com, close this browser window.