Modern Memory Design vs PictureFrames.com
A veteran online frame catalog vs. a hands-on custom frame studio that also ships nationwide. Here's how to choose.
PictureFrames.com is one of the oldest names in online framing, with a deep moulding catalog and solid DIY frame options. They're a legitimate choice for shoppers who know exactly what they want and are comfortable measuring, ordering, and assembling on their own. Modern Memory Design takes the opposite approach: we do the measuring, cutting, matting, and fitting — in person in New Jersey or shipped anywhere in the US. Here's the honest side-by-side.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Modern Memory Design | PictureFrames.com |
|---|---|---|
| Core model | Full-service framing — we handle measurement, matting, and assembly | Primarily DIY: order frame components sized to your measurements |
| Measurement risk | On us — bring the piece in or follow our guided sizing; mistakes are our problem | On you — mis-measured DIY orders are a common and costly frustration |
| In-person service | Yes — studio in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ (Tue–Fri 11–6, Sat 10–3) | Online only |
| Ready-to-hang delivery | Standard — every frame arrives assembled, fitted, wired, and bumpered | Available on some services; DIY orders require your own assembly and fitting |
| Specialty framing | Jerseys, shadowboxes, canvas floaters, conservation work, precision custom mats | Strong on frames and mats; complex 3D or memorabilia work isn't the focus |
| Nationwide shipping | Yes — thousands of frames online | Yes |
The DIY Question
DIY framing saves money when everything goes right: your measurements are exact, the art is a standard flat print, and you're comfortable with fitting points, backing, and hanging hardware. Where it goes wrong is the eighth-inch measuring error, the canvas that isn't quite square, or the mat window that clips a signature. Full-service framing exists because those mistakes cost more than the labor they avoid — especially on anything you can't reprint.
Why Buyers Switch to Modern Memory Design
- Zero measurement anxiety. We size everything — or verify your dimensions by phone before cutting: 201-421-4060.
- Arrives finished. Glass in, art fitted, dust cover sealed, wire on, ready to hang.
- Complete range: black frames, white frames, large wall sizes, and ready-made framed art.
- A real shop behind every order — the same team answers the phone and stands at the counter.
Popular Ready-to-Hang Frames
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PictureFrames.com cheaper than Modern Memory Design?
For DIY frame components, often yes — you're supplying the labor. For a finished, ready-to-hang result, comparable full-service pricing is usually much closer than people expect, and we're happy to quote against any spec.
What if I measure my art wrong on a DIY order?
With DIY, that's typically a new order at your expense. With us, sizing is our responsibility — we verify dimensions before cutting anything.
Does Modern Memory Design sell empty frames like PictureFrames.com?
Yes — we sell frames in thousands of standard and custom sizes, shipped nationwide, and we can also do the complete fitting for you.
Which is better for canvas art?
Our canvas floating frames are built and finished in-house in four wood tones, sized to standard stretched canvases — no assembly needed.
Skip the DIY — Get It Done Right
Modern Memory Design · 213 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 · 201-421-4060
Shop Ready-to-Hang Frames