Sometimes the most daunting part of getting art on your walls isn’t tracking down a cool piece of art but finding the right frame for it. Generic online options tend to look cheap, and they’re offered in only the most basic dimensions. On the other end of the spectrum, a custom framer might quote you a higher price than the actual piece you’re framing. So, what’s an art lover to do? Luckily, there are a few tried and tested online companies that offer art gallery caliber frames at reasonable prices. Many take care of everything from printing to framing, with perks like complimentary hanging hardware to sweeten the deal. So if you’re ready to rescue those art prints still rolled up in a tube in your closet, scroll on to discover the online framing resources we trust with our precious works.
5” x 7” to 40” x 60”
Framebridge’s offerings are more stylized than a lot of the other options you’ll find online, which is why it’s our top pick. Material options range from gilded bamboo to distressed whitewashed wood, with all frames supplied with matting, UV-protected acrylic, and hanging supplies. Either send in your artwork or upload a photograph for Framebridge to print at the desired size. “I’d been holding onto a few posters—a slick Valentino one and some vintage designs from a place in Tribeca I’m gatekeeping—when one of the brand’s numerous ads posed the answer to my framing woes,” says commerce writer Julia Harrison, who took her items to one of the brand’s physical locations (there are 44 across the country). After being walked through a different range of options and a month-long wait, Harrison told us the results were worth it. “I ended up ‘floating’ each piece I brought in—simple black frames with white or off-white backdrops for the first two, and a tortoise frame with gilded matte backing for the Robert Altman poster I brought in. I’m delighted with the final product—I feel like I’m, for once, treating my things respectfully.” The company can also frame objects such as commemorative buttons or sports jerseys that are less than 3/8″ deep.
Artifact Uprising will help you personalize your space with prints framed in a variety of modern styles, from floating acrylic and brass wall frames to wood tabletop frames. Each of the streamlined frames comes with hardware and hanging instructions to make it look like you worked with a professional galleryist. In fact, the brand also offers helpful guides like gallery wall decorating tips and an array of free, downloadable art to make the process feel less daunting. In addition to traditional framing, the brand’s non-frame art display options include wood photo ledges and photo hangers.
4” x 4” to 36” x 36”
Anyone looking to create physical mementos from their digital libraries should check out Art.com, which specializes in converting digital images into works of art with just a few clicks. Options include traditional frames (with over 50 styles to choose from), canvas prints, wood mounts, and framed canvases. Customers even have access to select photo editing tools should they be looking to touch up their selections and the site will also save your images for up to three months should you be on the fence about final selects.
4” x 4” to 32” x 40”
The framing solutions at Level Frames are handcrafted from sustainably harvested wood and environmentally friendly shellacs. Users can upload an image to print and then choose between a black or white mat and from three types of glazing. If you’re unsure of the best proportions to opt for, with a click of the golden-ratio button the site suggests the right frame based on the size of your artwork. Like Framebridge, posters and prints can also be sent to Level’s studio for framing. (Note to music fans: The site specializes in framing vinyl records.)
1” x 1” to 32” x 40”
You might not have thought it, but Etsy is one of the most affordable solutions we’ve found for custom framing. Many sellers on the site allow you to digitally send in the image you’d like to frame and the finished product will ship directly to your doorstep. If you’re looking to frame a piece of artwork or a poster you already own, many storefronts specialize in creating custom frames that will pair perfectly with your piece (just make sure your measurements are as accurate as can be).
1” x 1” to 40” x 60”
Framers prove they know their stuff when the first question is exactly what you’re framing. Simply Framed starts with that—is it a canvas? An art print? A scarf? Next you can browse more than 35 frame choices, including sleek gallery styles or a shimmering gold leaf that can accommodate works up to 40 by 60 inches. The company can even create a shadowbox or stretch a canvas within a frame and will recommend different options depending on the medium and size of the piece. Once you’ve placed your order, you’ll receive a tube with a prepaid return label. Pop the artwork in the mail, and a few days later it should show up, framed, on your doorstep.
5” x 5” to 40” x 50” (or up to 80″ unassembled)
American Frame has been in the business since 1973 and offers over 400 wood and metal frame options. The company will also print artwork and photos on a selection of nine paper types, canvas, Plexiglas, or aluminum. Customers can choose from a large variety of frames and mats and take advantage of retouching, mounting, and glazing options.