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Custom Framing FAQ β€” Answers to Every Question About Picture Framing

Complete custom framing FAQ from Modern Memory Design in Hasbrouck Heights NJ. Pricing, materials, turnaround, oil paintings, jerseys, needlepoint, museum glass, and more. Call (201) 421-4060.

Custom Framing FAQ β€” Every Question, Answered

Everything you want to know about custom framing β€” process, pricing, materials, turnaround, and more β€” answered by the team at Modern Memory Design in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ.

Still have a question? Call (201) 421-4060

General Framing Questions

What exactly is custom framing?

Custom framing means every component is selected and built specifically for your item β€” the frame moulding is cut to your exact dimensions, the mat board is cut to your opening size, and the glass is fitted to match. Unlike ready-made frames, nothing is compromised to fit a standard size. The result fits perfectly and looks professional.

What can be custom framed?

Almost anything flat or shallow β€” photos, art prints, diplomas, certificates, jerseys, needlepoint, cross-stitch, maps, magazine covers, newspaper clippings, concert posters, vinyl records, ketubahs, marriage certificates, military medals, children's artwork, oil paintings, watercolors, puzzles, fabric pieces, and more.

Do I need an appointment?

No appointment needed for most projects β€” just walk in during business hours (Tue–Fri 11am–6pm, Sat 10am–3pm). For large projects, shadow boxes, bulk orders, or if you want dedicated time at the design counter without waiting, calling ahead is appreciated.

How long does custom framing take?

Standard turnaround at Modern Memory Design is 7–10 business days for most projects. Rush service (2–5 business days) is available for most jobs at an additional fee β€” call to confirm rush availability and your specific deadline.

Pricing Questions

How much does custom framing cost?

Pricing depends on four factors: size, frame moulding, matting, and glass type. A standard 8Γ—10 photo with single mat starts around $65. A 16Γ—20 print with double mat runs $120–$240. A jersey shadow box typically runs $220–$450. See our full pricing guide at modernmemorydesign.com/pages/custom-framing-prices-nj for a complete breakdown.

Why is custom framing more expensive than store-bought frames?

Custom framing uses higher-quality materials β€” solid wood moulding, acid-free mat boards, UV-protective glass β€” and is built to the exact dimensions of your artwork by a skilled framer. The result lasts decades and protects your piece. Store-bought frames use cheaper materials, compromise on fit, and often damage artwork over time with acidic mats and non-UV glass.

Can I get a quote before coming in?

Yes. Call us at (201) 421-4060 with your artwork dimensions, a general sense of the frame style you want (simple/classic vs. ornate/premium), and your glass preference. We'll give you a realistic range on the spot. For complex projects, bringing the item in for an exact quote is more accurate.

Materials & Quality Questions

What is museum glass and do I need it?

Museum glass has an anti-reflective coating and UV filtration β€” it's nearly invisible and blocks 99% of UV light. It's the best glazing available. You don't need it for everything, but for original artwork, signed prints, valuable photographs, and ketubahs, museum glass is the right choice. It adds $40–$120 to a project depending on size β€” a worthwhile investment for anything irreplaceable.

What is the difference between UV acrylic and museum glass?

Both block UV light, but museum glass is actual glass with anti-reflective coating β€” the clearest option. UV acrylic is shatter-resistant and lighter, making it better for large frames, high-traffic areas, and safety-conscious spaces. Museum glass is ideal for fine art and premium presentations. UV acrylic is practical for oversized pieces and households with children or pets.

Do you use acid-free materials?

Yes β€” acid-free mat boards and backing are standard at Modern Memory Design. We don't use wood-pulp mat boards on anything we frame. Acidic materials migrate into artwork over time and cause yellowing and staining. Conservation-quality materials cost almost nothing more and make a significant difference over the lifetime of the piece.

Can you frame oil paintings on canvas?

Yes β€” canvas paintings are framed without glass using floater frames or liner frames. A floater frame creates a visible gap around the canvas edge; a liner frame uses fabric-wrapped material between canvas and outer moulding. We also re-stretch loose or sagging canvases before framing if needed.

Specialty Framing Questions

How do you frame a sports jersey?

Jerseys are pinned to a foam mounting board inside a deep shadow box frame. We position the jersey flat, display the number prominently, and can add photos, nameplates, or other memorabilia. UV-protective glazing is standard to prevent color fading. The complete jersey shadow box is sealed and ready to hang.

Do you frame needlepoint and cross-stitch?

Yes β€” we stretch and mount needlepoint and cross-stitch on archival foam core before framing. Fabric cannot touch glass directly (moisture creates mold), so we always use mat spacers or shadow box depth. We wet-block warped or distorted needlepoint before mounting when needed.

Can you frame a completed puzzle?

Yes. Glue the puzzle flat before bringing it in (we can do this in-studio if needed), and we'll mount it on archival backing and frame it in your choice of moulding and mat. We frame puzzles from 500 to 5,000+ pieces in all standard and custom sizes.

Do you frame newspapers and clippings?

Yes β€” and we strongly recommend UV glass for any newspaper framing because newsprint is highly acidic and bleaches rapidly. We use buffered mat boards that help neutralize acid migration from the newsprint itself, paired with UV-filtering glazing to stop light damage. Properly framed newspaper can last generations.

Logistics Questions

Where are you located and what are your hours?

Modern Memory Design is located at 213 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604. Hours are Tuesday through Friday 11am–6pm and Saturday 10am–3pm. Phone: (201) 421-4060. We are closed Sunday and Monday.

Do you offer pickup and delivery?

Yes β€” we offer artwork pickup, frame delivery, and professional wall installation throughout Bergen County and the NYC metro area. Great for large pieces, interior designers, and commercial projects. Call to schedule and get a delivery quote.

Do you ship frames?

Yes β€” we ship framing products and finished frames nationally through our online store. Visit modernmemorydesign.com to browse online frame products. For in-studio custom framing orders, local pickup is standard, though delivery can be arranged.

Explore Our Services

Question Not Answered? Call Us.

πŸ“ 213 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 Β· Tue–Fri 11am–6pm Β· Sat 10am–3pm

πŸ“ž Call (201) 421-4060

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