Framing Art...Budget Style

I always seem to drag out the framing process, mostly because I subconsciously want to avoid the expense I think. However, no one can deny the impact a framed "anything" has on a living space. The dilemma...how to frame art without spending the same amount as a weekend getaway with the hubby.

Step 1: Buy art or photographs in standard sizes

Step 2: Buy pre-made mats (cost: less than half the price of a custom mat)

Step 3: Buy pre-made frames (cost: one third of a custom frame)

* I like Pottery Barn's Wood Gallery Frames a lot. I know IKEA makes a similar and less expensive frame but the quality is lacking bigtime and framers can't wire super cheap frames like that very easily. PB's are modest in price and high-quality I've found.

Step 4: Once you place the art inside your pre-made mat & frame, take it to a professional gallery to be wired (cost: a few bucks)

Here is my latest budget framing project showcasing pictures taken by the fabulous Ms. Rebecca.

* If you are local here are a few places to check out:

Reuels...not glamorous but they always have sales and an abundant selection of pre-cut frames (Nielsen Bainbridge line). They also carry the Bainbridge Archival pre-cut mats in the Gallery Style that I love. She loves them too.

Evergreen Art & Framing...a beautiful place to visit. I feel refreshed just walking through the door. They only charge a few bucks to wire, but if you've purchased from them before, they will often offer the service on the house. This is where I purchased my first piece of original art. The employees are very nice, especially in-house Art Director Jodi Steen, and they also offer a small basket of toys to amuse the little ones.