After more than two decades of framing everything from family photographs to museum pieces, I’ve learned that great framing doesn’t require great expense. It requires skill, quality materials, and an honest pricing structure that cuts out the retail markup. This guide explains how our process works, what custom framing actually costs in the Portland area, and how to know if professional framing is right for your piece.
What Makes Our Portland Frame Shop Different
Most picture framing businesses operate on a simple model: mark up materials 3-4 times, add labor, and hope customers don’t comparison shop. We took a different approach when we opened our Vancouver, WA location.
We buy frame mouldings, mat boards, picture frame glass, and mounting supplies at wholesale volume. We keep our overhead low and pass those savings directly to you. Artists and DIYers can also purchase our wholesale framing supplies directly—same professional-grade materials we use, no minimum orders.
The result? The same Italian wood mouldings, the same Tru Vue museum glass, the same acid-free conservation materials that high-end galleries use—priced like you’re buying from a trade supplier.
Here’s What That Looks Like in Practice
| Frame Project | Typical Portland Retail | Our Wholesale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 16×20 photo with mat and regular glass | $180-280 | $90-140 |
| 24×36 poster with basic frame | $220-350 | $110-175 |
| 11×14 diploma with double mat | $150-220 | $75-110 |
| Shadow box for jersey | $350-500+ | $175-250 |
Prices vary based on frame selection and materials. These ranges reflect comparable quality.
Our Custom Framing Process: From Consultation to Finished Piece
Every framing project at our Portland-area shop follows the same careful process. Whether you’re framing a child’s first artwork or an original oil painting worth thousands, the attention to detail stays consistent.
Step 1: Your Personal Consultation
Stop by our Vancouver shop—only 15 miles from downtown Portland via I-5. During your visit, we sit down together with your artwork and work through the options.
This isn’t a rushed retail experience. We take time to understand:
- Where the piece will hang (lighting matters for glass selection)
- The room’s existing colors and style
- How long you want this framing to last (artwork preservation needs)
- Your budget range
I’ll pull frame corner samples, lay out custom mat cutting combinations, and show you exactly how different options look against your specific piece. Most consultations run 30-45 minutes. You’ll leave with a clear quote and timeline.
Step 2: Material Selection and Ordering
Once you approve the design, we order any specialty materials not in our current inventory. We stock over 2,000 frame moulding options through our supplier network, plus a full range of mat boards from basic to museum cotton rag.
For standard materials, processing takes 5-7 business days before your order ships or is ready for pickup. Custom or unusual mouldings from specialty suppliers might add additional time.
Step 3: Precision Cutting and Assembly
This is where the craft happens. Every frame we build is cut and joined by hand in our workshop. We use professional underpinners to secure corners—the same equipment you’d find in any high-end frame shop.
Mat boards are cut on computerized equipment for clean, consistent bevels. Picture frame glass is scored and cut to exact dimensions. Nothing is mass-produced or outsourced.
Step 4: Mounting and Final Assembly
How your artwork attaches to the backing board matters more than most people realize. For valuable or irreplaceable pieces, we use archival hinging methods that can be reversed later without damage. For posters and replaceable prints, we might recommend dry mounting for a perfectly flat presentation.
We seal the back of every frame with a dust cover for fade protection, attach appropriate hanging hardware based on the frame’s weight, and add bumpers to protect your wall.
Step 5: Quality Check and Pickup
Before you pick up your piece, we inspect everything under good light. We’re looking for dust under the glass, any imperfections in the mat cuts, tight corner joints, and secure mounting. If something isn’t right, we fix it before you see it.
When you arrive, we’ll show you the finished piece and make sure you’re happy before you leave.
Picture Framing Services We Offer
Custom Picture Framing
Our core service covers anything that fits in a frame: photographs, art prints, original paintings, posters, certificates, documents, and more. We match the frame style, mat colors, and glass type to each specific piece.
Canvas Stretching and Framing
Bring us your rolled canvas prints or unstretched paintings. Our canvas stretching service uses professional stretcher bars with proper tension and clean gallery-wrap corners. From there, you can display it as-is or add a floater frame for a finished gallery look.
Shadow Box and Display Framing
Three-dimensional items need special treatment. We build custom shadow boxes for sports jerseys, military medals, memorabilia, baby keepsakes, and collectibles. The depth, layout, and mounting method are all customized to your specific items.
Conservation and Museum Framing
When the piece has significant value—financial or sentimental—conservation framing protects it for generations. This means acid-free and lignin-free materials throughout, UV-filtering glass, archival mounting methods, and sealed backing. We follow the same standards used by museums and galleries for artwork preservation.
Diploma and Certificate Framing
We frame hundreds of diplomas each year, especially during graduation season. We can match your university colors with custom mat cutting combinations and offer frame styles from traditional to contemporary.
Mirror Framing
Transform any space with a custom framed mirror. We create mirrors in any size with frames to match your decor—from bathroom vanities to full-length dressing mirrors to decorative accent pieces.
Commercial and Volume Framing
Businesses, hotels, restaurants, and property managers often need multiple pieces framed to a consistent standard. Our commercial framing services include volume pricing and efficient coordination for large projects.
Understanding Framing Materials: What You’re Actually Paying For
The price difference between a $75 framing job and a $300 framing job usually comes down to three things: the frame moulding, the picture frame glass, and the mat board quality. Here’s what those choices actually mean.
Frame Moulding Options
Polystyrene (Plastic) Frames — The least expensive option. These frames are lightweight and come in many styles, but they’re not as durable as wood. Fine for posters, casual prints, and temporary displays.
Composite/MDF Frames — A step up from plastic. These have a wood-fiber core with a wrapped finish. Good durability at moderate prices.
Solid Wood Frames — What most people picture when they think “real frame.” Ranges from basic pine to premium walnut, maple, or exotic woods. Can be stained, painted, or finished with gold or silver leaf.
Metal Frames — Clean, modern, and extremely durable. Nielsen metal frames are the industry standard for contemporary art and photography. Lightweight but strong.
Glass Types Explained
Regular Glass — Basic picture framing glass. Clear, affordable, and fine for pieces not in direct sunlight. Blocks about 45% of UV light naturally.
Non-Glare Glass — Has a slightly frosted surface that diffuses reflections. The tradeoff: images look slightly softer, especially if there’s space between the glass and artwork.
Conservation Clear Glass — Blocks 99% of UV rays while maintaining clarity. Good choice for anything valuable that might be near windows or bright lighting. Essential for fade protection on photographs and prints.
Museum Glass — The premium option. Blocks 99% of UV rays AND eliminates nearly all reflection. Your art looks like there’s no glass at all. This is what major galleries and museums use. It costs more, but the visual difference is striking.
Acrylic (Plexiglass) — Lighter than glass, won’t shatter, and available with UV protection. Required for shipping, good for large pieces, and safer for high-traffic areas. Scratches more easily than glass.
Mat Board Grades
Decorative/Paper Mats — Made from wood pulp, acid-neutralized to slow deterioration. Fine for posters and replaceable prints. May show aging after 10-20 years.
Conservation Alpha-Cellulose Mats — Acid-free and lignin-free throughout. Won’t yellow or damage artwork. Good for photographs, limited editions, and pieces you want to keep long-term.
Cotton Rag Museum Board — 100% cotton fiber, naturally acid-free. The highest archival standard. Required by museums for irreplaceable works and essential for proper artwork preservation.
Need materials for your own projects? We sell all of these as wholesale framing supplies to artists, photographers, and DIY framers.
How Much Does Custom Framing Cost in Portland?
Pricing transparency matters. Here’s an honest breakdown of what picture framing costs in our area and what factors drive the price up or down. Unlike chain stores that rely on confusing coupon games, we offer straightforward wholesale pricing every day.
Price Factors
Frame Size — Larger frames require more materials and more labor. A 30×40 frame isn’t twice the cost of a 15×20, but it’s definitely more. We can frame anything from wallet-sized photos to oversized artwork.
Frame Material — A basic black wood frame might cost $4-6 per foot of moulding. A hand-finished Italian gold leaf frame from Larson-Juhl could run $40+ per foot. Browse our wholesale moulding options to see the range.
Glass Selection — Regular picture frame glass is cheapest. Museum glass on a large piece can add $150-300 to the project, but the visual difference and UV protection are significant.
Mat Complexity — Single mat is standard. Double mats add $15-25. Custom cut openings or unusual shapes cost more.
Mounting Method — Dry mounting a poster is quick. Conservation hinging an antique document takes more time and skill.
Real Project Examples
Basic Poster Framing (24×36)
Black metal frame, regular glass, no mat
Our price: $85-110
Family Portrait with Mat (16×20)
Wood frame, conservation mat, regular glass
Our price: $95-140
Limited Edition Print (20×24)
Quality wood frame, double mat, conservation glass
Our price: $180-260
Original Watercolor (18×24)
Conservation framing with museum glass
Our price: $280-380
Sports Jersey Shadow Box
Deep frame, mounted and displayed properly
Our price: $175-275
These are estimates. Actual prices depend on specific material choices.
Choosing the Right Frame Style for Your Art
Matching the right frame to your artwork is both art and science. Here are guidelines I’ve developed over 20+ years of custom framing to help you make confident choices.
Match the Frame Era to the Art Era
Traditional artwork generally looks best in traditional frames—ornate wood with gold or silver finishes, classic profiles. Contemporary art pairs better with clean lines, metal frames, or simple wood profiles. A baroque frame on modern abstract art creates visual conflict; a sleek black frame on an antique oil painting looks out of place.
Consider the Room, Not Just the Art
The frame bridges your artwork and your space. A frame that looks perfect in the shop might clash with your home’s style. That’s why we encourage bringing photos of the room where you’ll hang the piece—it helps us recommend frames that complement both the art and your decor.
Common Style Pairings
- Photography: Black or white gallery frames, metal frames, minimal profiles let the image speak
- Oil paintings: Wood frames with depth, often gold or natural finishes, floater frames for gallery-wrapped canvas
- Watercolors: Lighter frames, often with generous matting to create breathing room
- Posters & prints: Metal frames for modern pieces, simple wood for vintage prints
- Diplomas: Classic wood frames in walnut, mahogany, or black—timeless and professional
- Sports memorabilia: Team colors in mat boards, shadow boxes with UV-protective glass
- Kids’ art: Colorful frames, changeable frames if you want to rotate artwork
Not sure what style works for your piece? Bring it in for a free consultation—we’ll show you options side by side until something clicks.
DIY Framing vs Professional Framing: Which Is Right for You?
With ready-made frames available at every craft store, you might wonder whether professional picture framing is worth the investment. Here’s an honest comparison to help you decide.
When DIY Framing Makes Sense
- Standard sizes: If your piece fits a common frame size (8×10, 11×14, 16×20), ready-made frames work fine
- Replaceable items: Posters, prints you can reorder, temporary displays
- Tight budget: When cost matters more than longevity
- Quick turnaround: Need it framed today, not next week
If you go the DIY route, at least use acid-free materials from our wholesale framing supplies—they cost marginally more than craft store materials but won’t damage your artwork.
When Professional Framing Is Worth It
- Odd sizes: Anything that doesn’t fit standard ready-made frames—custom mat cutting ensures perfect fit
- Valuable pieces: Original art, limited editions, signed prints, antiques
- Sentimental items: Wedding photos, family heirlooms, diplomas, military memorabilia
- Long-term preservation: When you need archival materials to prevent fading and deterioration
- Presentation matters: For gifts, galleries, offices, or anywhere the framing will be noticed
- 3D items: Jerseys, medals, collectibles that need shadow boxes
The Hidden Costs of DIY
What looks cheaper upfront often isn’t. Ready-made frames typically use acidic backing boards and paper mats that will yellow and damage your art over 10-20 years. Cheap picture frame glass offers minimal UV protection. The “savings” disappear when you need to reframe—or worse, when the artwork is permanently damaged by foxing, fading, or acid burn.
Professional framing with conservation materials costs more initially but protects your investment for decades. For anything you care about keeping, it’s the smarter long-term choice.
Not sure which route to take? Stop by for a free consultation—we’ll give you honest advice even if that means telling you a ready-made frame is fine for your piece.
Why Portland and Vancouver Customers Choose Us
Two Convenient Locations
Our main shop is located at 13216 NE Salmon Creek Ave Unit F5 in Vancouver, Washington—right off I-5 at the 134th Street exit. For Portland residents, that’s only about 15 miles from downtown. We also maintain an office at 1001 Southwest 5th Avenue in downtown Portland for web order processing and consultations.
A note about sales tax: Oregon residents pay no sales tax. Our Vancouver location means Washington residents do pay state sales tax on purchases. For Oregon folks, visiting our Vancouver shop is tax-free shopping with wholesale pricing—a double savings.
Convenient Hours, Personal Service
We’re open 7 days a week, 10am to 8pm, so you can stop by when it works for your schedule. Unlike big-box stores where you’re just another number, you’ll get personal attention from experienced framers who take the time to understand your project.
Give us a call to discuss your project or stop by during business hours.
- Vancouver residents: 360-903-8969
- Portland residents: 503-895-7527
Professional Materials, Not Retail Markup
We buy from the same suppliers that major frame shops use. Larson-Juhl mouldings. Crescent mat boards. Tru Vue glass products. The difference is our pricing structure, not our materials.
What Our Customers Say
“I brought in my grandmother’s vintage photograph expecting a huge bill. Steve walked me through the conservation options, explained why certain materials mattered, and the final price was half what I expected. The framing looks absolutely museum-quality.”
“As a photographer, I’ve tried many framers in Portland. All Custom Framing gives me the same professional results at wholesale prices. I now send all my clients here for their prints.”
“They framed my son’s football jersey in a beautiful shadow box. The attention to detail was incredible—every fold, every angle was perfect. Worth every penny and then some.”
“I’m an artist and buy all my framing supplies here. The wholesale pricing lets me offer framed pieces to my customers without eating into my margins. Plus, when I need something custom framed, the quality is impeccable.”
Read more reviews on Google or share your experience after your visit.
Frame Care & Maintenance Tips
Once your artwork is professionally framed, proper care ensures it stays beautiful for decades. Here are the essential tips for maintaining your framed pieces.
Hanging Your Frames
The 57-inch rule: Hang pictures so the center of the artwork is 57 inches from the floor—this is gallery standard and matches average eye level. For pieces above furniture, leave 6-8 inches between the furniture top and the frame bottom.
Avoid direct sunlight: Even with UV-protective glass, prolonged direct sunlight can cause fading over time. Choose walls that don’t receive constant sun exposure.
Watch humidity: Bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior walls can expose frames to moisture. If you must hang in these areas, ensure the backing is properly sealed.
Cleaning Your Frames
- For glass: Use a soft, lint-free cloth with glass cleaner. Spray the cloth, not the glass—moisture can seep under the frame and damage the artwork.
- For acrylic: Use only acrylic-safe cleaners or water with a microfiber cloth. Regular glass cleaners can cloud acrylic.
- For frames: Dust regularly with a soft brush or cloth. For wood frames, occasional furniture polish keeps them looking fresh.
When to Reframe
Bring your framed pieces back for inspection if you notice:
- Yellowing or browning of the mat board
- Foxing (brown spots) on the artwork
- Visible fading or color shift
- Loose or separating frame corners
- Moisture damage or warping
With conservation framing, you shouldn’t see these issues for 50+ years. If your piece was framed elsewhere with non-archival materials, we can reframe it with proper conservation materials to prevent further damage.
Common Questions About Custom Framing
How long does custom framing take?
Standard orders require 5-7 business days for processing before shipment. Rush processing is available for an additional fee (minimum $50 order or $20 small order fee, plus 0-20% of the order amount). Once complete, we’ll notify you when your order is ready for pickup at our Vancouver location.
How long can I wait to pick up my order?
You have 40 days after notification to pick up your order at our Vancouver, WA location. Starting on day 41, a $2.00 per day storage fee applies. After four months, unclaimed items will be discarded or donated. We recommend picking up promptly once notified.
Can you match an existing frame?
Often, yes. Bring in the frame you want to match, and we’ll find the closest option from our suppliers. With over 2,000 moulding choices, we can usually get very close.
Do you frame canvas paintings?
Absolutely. Canvas can be framed with a traditional frame (with or without glass) or with a floater frame that leaves a small gap around the edges. We also stretch rolled canvas onto stretcher bars.
What if I already have a frame?
We can reframe artwork into an existing frame, replace glass or mats, or repair damaged frames in some cases. Bring it in and we’ll take a look.
Do you offer bulk or commercial pricing?
Yes. If you’re framing multiple pieces for a business, hotel, or large project, contact us for volume pricing.
Can I buy just the supplies?
Yes! We sell professional-grade mat boards, glass, moulding, and framing supplies to artists, photographers, and DIY framers at wholesale prices. No minimum orders required except where indicated.
How should I measure for a custom frame?
Measure and provide us the exact size of the item your frame will fit over. We add the standard 1/8″ allowance—you don’t need to add it yourself. This is standard industry procedure to ensure proper fit. We maintain a 1/16″ tolerance on all products.
How should I transport artwork to you?
Flat is best. Don’t roll artwork that’s been flat—you’ll create permanent curl. Protect glass with cardboard. For valuable pieces, we can discuss pickup options.
Do you ship finished frames?
Yes, we ship throughout the continental United States from our Portland-area facility. Transit times range from 1-3 business days in the Northwest to 5-6 business days for the East Coast. Oversized packages (width + height exceeding 54 inches) incur additional fees and may ship via freight line with curbside delivery only. Hawaii and Alaska shipping is not available.
What is your return policy?
Custom-cut and made-to-order items cannot be returned unless there’s an error on our part. You have 15 days to report any defects or errors—we’ll arrange pickup at no charge and replace or refund the item. Non-custom products may be returned unused in original condition with a 25% restocking fee; you’re responsible for return shipping. Note: Colors may vary slightly from what you see on screen due to monitor differences, and we cannot accept returns for color expectations.
How do I choose the right frame style for my art?
Match the frame era to the art era—traditional artwork looks best in ornate wood frames, while contemporary art pairs better with clean lines and metal frames. Also consider your room decor since the frame bridges the art and your space. Bring photos of the room to your consultation and we’ll show you options side by side until something clicks.
What’s the difference between museum glass and regular glass?
Regular picture frame glass blocks about 45% of UV light and has visible reflections. Museum glass blocks 99% of UV rays AND eliminates nearly all reflection—your art looks like there’s no glass at all. Museum glass costs more, but the visual difference and protection are significant for valuable pieces.
How do I protect my framed art from fading?
Use UV-protective glass (conservation or museum glass), avoid hanging in direct sunlight, and ensure the frame uses acid-free materials throughout. With proper conservation framing, your artwork should remain vibrant for 50+ years.
Visit Our Portland-Area Framing Locations
Vancouver Shop Location
All Custom Framing at Wholesale13216 NE Salmon Creek Ave Unit F5
Vancouver, WA 98686
Only 15 miles from downtown Portland — Order pickup available here
Phone: 360-903-8969
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00am – 8:00pm
Portland Office
All Custom Framing at Wholesale1001 Southwest 5th Avenue, Floor 1100
Portland, OR 97204
Web order processing office
Phone: 503-895-7527
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00am – 8:00pm
Directions to Vancouver Shop from Portland
Take I-5 North across the Columbia River. Exit at 134th Street (Exit 7). Head east on NE 134th Street, then turn right onto NE Salmon Creek Avenue. We’re in the business complex on the right—Unit F5.
What to Bring
- The artwork or item you want framed
- Any existing frames you want to match
- Photos of the room where it will hang (helpful for color matching)
- Your timeline and budget range
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you have a single photograph or a dozen pieces to frame, we’d like to earn your business.
Portland residents: Call 503-895-7527
Vancouver residents: Call 360-903-8969
We’ve been helping Portland and Vancouver residents protect and display their art, photographs, and keepsakes for years. Every piece matters to us—because it matters to you.
All Custom Framing — Always 40-50% Off
