Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does bespoke picture framing cost?
Every frame is individually made, so the price depends on the size of the artwork, the moulding, mountboard, glazing and the type of framing required. I am always happy to discuss your budget and suggest different options. I will agree the price with you before starting work, so there should be no surprises when you collect your finished frame. If you'd like an initial idea of cost before making an appointment, simply get in touch with the approximate size of your artwork and, ideally, a photograph.
2. How much does it cost to frame an A3 picture?
This is probably one of the most common questions a picture framer gets asked – and unfortunately it's a little like asking a garage, “How much is a new tyre?” I recently heard someone ask exactly that question while I was waiting at a garage. Without missing a beat, the salesman replied, “Anywhere from £15 – but I don't think you've come here for a new tyre for your wheelbarrow!” Picture framing is much the same. An A3 print could be put into a simple frame with standard glass and no mount, or it could have a wide conservation mount, a substantial handmade frame and specialist non-reflective UV-protection glass. Both are A3 pictures, but they are very different frames – and consequently very different prices. As a general guide, a straightforward bespoke A3 frame starts from around £45, with the price increasing according to the moulding, mount, glazing and framing style you choose. If you send me a photograph of what you'd like framed and an approximate size, I can usually give you an initial indication of cost before you make an appointment. There's no obligation, and I'm always happy to suggest options to suit different budgets.
3. Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes. Unlike a traditional high-street picture framing shop, Salix Fine Framing operates by appointment from my workshop at Shirebrook Business Centre Working by appointment means I can give you my full attention without other customers waiting behind you. It also allows me to make sure the workshop is ready for a consultation – at other times I may be cutting glass, assembling frames or working with delicate materials and may not have suitable bench space available. There is no pressure to make a quick decision. We can take the time to look at different mouldings, mounts and glazing options and find something that works for both your artwork and your budget. Working by appointment also means that I can be available at a time that suits you, including the evening or weekends.
4. Can you help me choose a frame if I don't know what I want?
Of course – that's an important part of bespoke framing. You don't need to know anything about mouldings, mount colours or glazing before you arrive. Bring your artwork and we can experiment with different combinations together. My preference is generally to let the frame complement the artwork rather than overpower it, but ultimately it is your picture and your frame. The aim is to create something you'll enjoy living with.
5. Can you replace the broken glass in my frame?
Yes. If the frame itself is still in good condition, I can replace broken picture frame glass without unnecessarily replacing the whole frame. While the frame is apart, I can also clean the glass, frame and accessible surfaces, remove accumulated dust and debris, check the fittings and then reassemble everything securely. You can choose straightforward standard picture glass or use the opportunity to upgrade to non-reflective or UV-protection glazing if the artwork would benefit from it.
6. Can you reframe something that's already framed?
Yes. You don't necessarily need to replace everything simply because an existing frame is damaged, dated or no longer suits your home. Depending on its condition, I may be able to reuse the existing frame while replacing the glass, mount, backing or other components. Alternatively, the artwork can be completely reframed using conservation-quality materials. I'm also happy to look at older frames and advise which elements are worth retaining. Sometimes an old frame is an important part of an object's history and preservation may be preferable to replacement.
7. Can you frame unusual objects as well as pictures?
Absolutely. Bespoke framing isn't limited to prints and paintings. I can frame photographs, textiles, sports shirts, documents, memorabilia and three-dimensional objects, as well as more conventional artwork. Box frames and other specialist designs can be made where additional depth is required. If you're unsure whether something can be framed, please ask – unusual projects are often some of the most interesting.
8. What types of picture framing glass do you offer?
I offer standard picture glass as well as specialist glazing, including non-reflective and UV-protection options. The right choice depends on the artwork, where the finished frame will hang and your budget. For valuable, sentimental or vulnerable artwork, UV-protection glazing can provide additional protection against damaging ultraviolet light. I can show you the difference between glazing options during your appointment so that you can decide whether the additional cost is worthwhile for your particular frame.
9. Do you use conservation-quality framing materials?
Yes, where appropriate. I can use conservation-quality mountboards, backing materials and UV-protection glazing to help protect artwork and objects for the future. This can be particularly important for original artwork, limited-edition prints, photographs, historic documents and items with sentimental value. Not every job requires the same specification, however. I'll explain the options and help you choose a level of protection appropriate to the item rather than automatically specifying the most expensive solution.
10. How long does picture framing take?
Turnaround depends on the type of frame and the materials required. Bespoke mouldings and specialist glazing sometimes need to be ordered specifically for your job. I will give you an estimated completion time when we discuss your frame. If you have a particular deadline – perhaps for a birthday, wedding, exhibition or presentation – please let me know and I will always tell you whether I can meet it.
11. Do you take card payments?
Yes. I accept bank transfer, card payments and cash, in that order of preference. Bank transfer is my preferred method and card payments are also very welcome. I can accept cash, but as Salix is a small workshop rather than a conventional retail shop, cash payments mean making a separate trip to the bank to pay the money into my account. Also, I do not keep cash on the premises, so if you do pay in cash, please have to correct amount! If possible, bank transfer or card therefore makes life considerably easier.
12. Where is Salix Fine Framing?
13. Do you offer at-home framing consultations, and what areas do you cover?
Salix Fine Framing is an independent, appointment-only picture framing workshop based at Shirebrook Business Centre (NG20), conveniently located for customers from Mansfield, Worksop, Bolsover, Clowne, Whitwell and the surrounding Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire area.
Because the workshop is appointment-only, please contact me before travelling so that I can make sure I'm there and ready for your visit.
Yes. If it is difficult or inconvenient to bring your artwork to the workshop, or you would simply prefer to discuss framing options in your own home, I can offer an at-home consultation service by arrangement. This can be particularly useful for large pictures, mirrors, valuable or delicate artwork, or when you would like to see how different frame and mount options work with the colours and surroundings in your home. Based at Shirebrook Business Centre, I can provide home consultations across the surrounding area, including Mansfield, Mansfield Woodhouse, Shirebrook, Bolsover, Clowne, Whitwell, Worksop, Chesterfield, Barlborough, Creswell, Edwinstowe, Warsop, Ollerton, Southwell and surrounding villages. For locations further afield, please get in touch – I may still be able to help, although a travel charge may apply. I’m also very happy to travel further afield for suitable commissions. Previous work has taken me into Leicestershire and London, and I regularly travel to London with other commitments. If you have something particularly large, valuable or difficult to transport, or simply prefer to discuss your framing options at home, please get in touch. I’m always happy to discuss whether a home consultation would be practical. There is no rigid geographical boundary — for the right project, distance needn’t be a barrier.